Shaved Ice for Shelter Dogs in Hawaii: Cooling Canines in Maui’s Humane Haven`

Rocky Kanaka |

Aug 15, 2023

On a scorching day amidst the serene beauty of Maui, a heartwarming and refreshing initiative emerged to offer comfort to those often forgotten – homeless dogs. With temperatures soaring, a group of compassionate individuals set out to provide 100 snow cones to these four-legged companions, offering a much-needed respite from the relentless heat.

A Pawsitively Cool Delight: Shaved Ice for Homeless Dogs

Rocky Kanaka, a dedicated animal enthusiast, orchestrated this endeavor with a heartfelt purpose: “Today we’re giving 100 snow cones to homeless dogs. It’s the hottest day, so I think it’s perfect to give these dogs a refreshing, cool treat.”

Joined by his fellow animal advocates, Rebecca Zamolo and Matt Slays, the team’s mission was clear – to bring smiles and relief to the sheltered canines at the Maui Humane Society. “Yeah, a snow cone, yes please Sophie!” exclaimed Rebecca Zamolo, as the camaraderie and excitement in the air were palpable.

Shave Ice vs. Snow Cones: A Delectable Distinction

Yet, the snow cones were not your typical icy indulgence. Cheryl, the creative force behind the frozen treats, explained the difference between shave ice and snow cones: “Snow cones, the ice is crunched up, it’s all crunchy. When you shave the ice it comes out of this big block and it’s shaved real fine on a blade.”

The twist in this frozen tale was the ingenious approach to the ingredients. Knowing that traditional snow cones were unsuitable for dogs due to their high sugar and syrup content, Rocky Kanaka, a pet chef, concocted a unique blend. The specially crafted snow cones featured a dog-friendly mix of blueberries, watermelon, beets, pears, carrots, sweet potatoes, and even a hint of cinnamon.

The charismatic Millie, with her undeniable charm, stole the show as she playfully interacted with Rocky Kanaka. Millie’s enthusiasm was infectious, highlighting the genuine joy that canines bring to even the simplest of gestures.

A Shelter’s Resilience: Rising from the Ashes

The event not only brought moments of delight but also spotlighted the resilience of the Maui Humane Society in the face of adversity. The shelter had recently battled a devastating wildfire, which posed a significant threat to both the shelter’s inhabitants and its dedicated staff.

Nancy, the Director of Development and Communications at the Maui Humane Society, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support: “The fires came right up to this line and that’s the humane society right there. The firefighters stood right here and did whatever it took to save the humane society.”

Embracing Healing and Hope: The Story of Sophie

The heartwarming initiative wasn’t just about providing a fleeting moment of relief; it encapsulated a larger mission. Rocky Kanaka, joined by Rebecca Zamolo and Matt Slays, aimed to shed light on the tireless efforts of animal shelters and encourage adoption. Sophie, a resilient dog on the mend from a traumatic accident, emerged as a poignant symbol of recovery and hope.

The climax of the event featured the distribution of snow cones to the shelter’s staff and volunteers, acknowledging their dedication in the face of challenges. The enthusiasm of both the canines and the humans reflected the unity of purpose and the shared bond between species.

A Symphony of Smiles: Canines, Snow Cones, and Joy

Amidst the joyful barks, wagging tails, and colorful snow cones, Maui’s Maui Humane Society transformed into a haven of harmony. The event not only offered a cooling escape from the heat but also exemplified the profound impact of small acts of kindness on those in need.

As the sun set over the picturesque landscape, it was a testament to the remarkable connections between humans and their faithful companions, and a reminder that compassion knows no bounds.