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. We 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.