Add Us On Google Add as a preferred source on GoogleWAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) - Wisconsin Public Service is using a dog named Ruby to promote safe digging awareness and the 811 hotline. Ruby got thousands of votes to be WPS’s official ‘ambassadog’ for 811. The 811 hotline helps residents avoid hitting underground utility lines before starting a digging project. What you need to know about 811People should call 811 at least three days before starting any digging project. Experts say even if a homeowner believes they know where utility lines are located, those lines can shift over time.