OFFERING ENRICHMENT, fOSTER SUPPORT, AND tRANSPORTATION sERVICES TO LOCAL DOGS
Who We Are
Canine Dakine is: Michelle, Chris, Wendy, Squints, and Maile.
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Together, we are a pack of people and poi dogs living in Hilo on the beautiful Big Island of Hawai'i. Our mission is to offer our compassion, respect, and support to local dogs in need. Forged from our love of our own dogs and driven by our passion for seeing dogs succeed, we aim to help bring out the best in each dog we encounter.
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Building on the skills we've learned from training and handling our own dogs, we shifted our focus in 2023 to using those abilities to help shelter dogs. Through fostering coupled with structured play, socialization, and intentional one-on-one attention, we have helped dozens of dogs find comfort in the world outside of the shelter on their way to adoption.
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In 2025, we began offering transportation services to local rescues to support dog fly-out programs. This necessary service helps regulate the dog overpopulation problem on island, while also increasing the dogs' chances of finding a life-long home elsewhere.
What We Do
01.Canine Enrichment
This service provides engaging enrichment activities tailored for shelter dogs, aimed at improving their well-being and increasing adoption rates. It includes a variety of activities such as structured walks, basic obedience training, agility work, scent work, and various forms of play (tug, chase, fetch). The program helps shelters showcase the dogs' personalities, reduces their stress, teaches them valuable skills, and reinforces their bond toward humans.
02.Foster Support
This service offers resources, guidance, and ongoing support for shelter dogs in foster homes. It includes educational materials, check-ins, strategies, and help to assist foster caregivers in providing the best environment for the dogs. The service aims to strengthen foster programs and promote successful fostering experiences for both the dogs and humans in our community.
03.Canine Transportation
This service provides safe and reliable transportation for dogs in need - connecting shelters, rescues, and potential adopters. It entails drop-off services for airport transportation for our local rescues' various dog fly-out programs. We ensure dogs are moved efficiently and comfortably in order to relieve pressure from local shelters' staff. It serves as an essential logistical solution for our community animal welfare organizations.
