Providing Cage-free Canine Care
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Chris and Kim Barretto, owners and managers of Ohana Doggie Daycare, are making it their mission to expand the bond between canine and human by providing a safe, fun and stimulating environment for man’s best friend. The 5,000-square-foot Kakaako facility offers room for all breeds and sizes with both indoor and outdoor play areas.
“The concept of our business is Hawaii’s largest and first cage-free doggie day-care and boarding. We have two rooms, little tykes for the smaller dogs and the large room for the larger dogs,” says Chris. “We also have two Web cams in both rooms for ‘parents’ to view their dogs.”
Initially, Ohana Doggie Daycare was started in 2004 by Anna Doell and Michelle Jim. The Barrettos took over the business at 611 Cooke St. in June, with Doell and Jim helping with grooming and administrative work.
“We have a great team of people who have a great passion for dogs,” Chris says, noting that the majority of the staff have pre-vet and kenneling backgrounds, making them highly knowledgeable about the care and service of their clients’ dogs.
“We provide grooming and spa services three times a week, and provide complimentary feeding and medicating, if needed, at no extra charge - of course, the parents must provide their own food. Walks are given by request as well.”
The Barrettos run a 24-hour operation, so a night attendant is always on hand to care for the canines that board at the facility. Daycare is available daily (Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Saturday 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.).
In order to offer a safe and nurturing environment for canines, Chris says that all dogs must go through a four-hour temperament screening prior to attending daycare and boarding.
“We integrate the dogs into the pack and watch closely for any signs of anxiety or aggression - I would say 97 percent of the dogs pass their evaluation,” he explains.
“We care for puppies - which must be current on all shots - and elderly dogs. We currently are caring for a 19-year-old dog that gets specialized treatment.”
The Barrettos have been married for 10 years and have always shared a love for dogs and animals in general. Kim is devoted to animal welfare and actively promoted it in Taiwan, Malaysia and Thailand, while Chris takes it upon himself to foster abused dogs - mainly hunting dogs.
Together they call Kaneohe home with their three Jack Russell terriers Pablo, Sunny and Willy.
“The most-rewarding aspect of having our own business is working with my wife, being creative, setting up our own hours and having that flexibility,” Chris says. “Also, nothing can be better than working with dogs. They make you smile even on a stressful day.”
For more information on Ohana Doggie Daycare, call 791-3647 or visit ohanadoggiedaycare.com.
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