From Being Trapped Under a Deck to Being Safe and Loved: Help the Moloka‘i Puppies Thrive

It started with a cry- their tiny voices calling out from beneath an old pool deck on Moloka‘i. A mama dog had been left behind months ago when her family moved off-island, and she’d given birth under the deck, accessibly by momma, but too far to be reached by people. A few days after giving birth, and mama disappeared. Her seven puppies were left behind, hungry and alone until Rescue Kitties of Hawai‘i got the call.

With no time to waste, the team rushed in, joined by a group of incredible seniors who didn’t think twice. Aunties and uncles in their seventies and eighties crawled under the deck, unscrewed boards, and gently pulled the pups from the dark. One by one, seven four-week-old Blue Heeler puppies were bottle-fed, bundled in blankets, and given their first real taste of comfort and care.

Today, the pups are safe in RKH foster homes, slowly gaining strength with round-the-clock feeding, warmth, and meds. Papa dog, now known as Jamba, was safely trapped with the help of Maui Humane Society and has already found a loving home thanks to a generous foster family who stepped up without hesitation. Everyone is still hoping mama dog will be found soon.

Donations will go toward their care to ensure they have a bright future ahead, one they deserve. Their story began in heartbreak, but thanks to an unexpected team of heroes and a whole lot of love, these pups now have a chance to grow up safe, strong, and surrounded by care.

Update 07/25
The seven little bundles of love are doing amazing! They are now fully weaned and have received their first vaccinations. They are now able to safely go outside and absolutely love this play time! We are now waiting to raise funds and prepare them to get all ready to fly to Oahu for them to get fixed. Thank you for your ongoing support!

Update 9/9/25
4 puppies were flown out to a wonderful dog rescue partner in New Hampshire, and they fixed them all there. This rescue adopted 2 out on Molokai. So they only have 1 left that needs full vet care. This would not have been possible without your amazing support and generosity!