About Us
Our Ruakaka roots
The Best Dog Trust’s journey started in 2014 as Ruakaka Dog Rescue. Two friends, united by a passion for improving the lives of dogs in Ruakākā Village. Ruakaka Dog Rescue was created to support, educate and help dogs and their owners.
Over time, efforts expanded to cover the entire Whangārei region. W fostered and rehomed hundreds of dogs over the years and supported owners with education, food and advice.
In 2023, our founding trustee stepped back and we transitioned from direct rescue operations to a broader initiative. Rather than working as the 'ambulance at the bottom of the cliff', we want to be proactive in curbing the overwhelming number of unwanted dogs and puppies.
So our primary focus shifted to offering support to low-income dog owners and those facing financial hurdles in desexing their dogs. We no longer operate a rescue or foster dogs, which wasn't an easy decision to make. We believe we can make the most significant impact by desexing as many dogs as possible across Whangārei and Kaipara.
This shift in focus highlighted that our work was much larger than Ruakākā and our team was based across Whangārei and further afield. We needed a name that better reflected who we are and what we do.
So, The Best Dog Trust emerged, embodying our core values:
Desex, Support, Rehome.
The Best Dog Trust
Desex
Desexing is the key step in stopping unwanted litters, keeping dogs out of pounds and rescues, and helping dogs live longer, healthier lives.
Support
In addition to our desexing campaign, we also support dog owners who need a helping hand with things like food, and bedding (as supplies allow).
Collaborating with organisations like Whakaora Kai, Food Rescue Northland, and local community trusts and marae networks, we distribute food to dog owners in need. We also work collaboratively with other Northland-based rescues to make the biggest difference we can for the dogs.
Rehome
We assist dog owners by promoting desexed dogs needing new homes on their behalf across our social media network, advocating responsible pet ownership, and finding loving homes for our four-legged friends.
Our Core Values
We wholeheartedly believe that desexed dogs are the best dogs, and we are committed to turning this belief into reality.
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Support Us
Though small, we are immensely grateful for the support of our skilled trustees, volunteers, and people across New Zealand.
If you wish to donate, fundraise, or support The Best Dog Trust, contact us today! We always welcome volunteers to assist with administration and fundraising.
For businesses looking for a great cause to get involved in, please get in touch. We have some incredible organisations and businesses who support us - please check out our supporters.
For those looking to adopt a dog, explore our 'advertised on behalf' dogs on Facebook—you might just find your next family member.
If you want to donate, fundraise, support us, or just be involved with The Best Dog Trust, contact us today!