Two thousand (2000) reflective dog collars will adorn the necks of the islands’ pups after a donation from Californian attorney, Annette Borzakian.

The collars should help curb an increase in road incidents involving dogs.

“Annette connected with us late last year. She heard that we had a bout of dogs getting run over. We had three in one week,” says Sher Pokia of Cook Islands SPCA. 

Borzakian is a frequent visitor to Rarotonga. When she heard about the incidents, she had an idea to help reduce disasters between dogs and vehicles on the roads by providing reflective collars.

David Pokia is the president of the Cook Island SPCA and the shelter manager. He says: “They will make it easier for people driving cars and motorcycles at night to see the dogs wearing the collars and hopefully avoiding any accidents.”

“In the past few years, we have had a number of animals hit on the roads, and this has caused families enormous stress and grief for the loss of their animals.”

Sher says it’s a good thing for the island, considering the motorcycles, four-wheel drives and larger trucks. Lack of street lighting is also a concern. 

“It's all about safety, not only for the dogs but the humans. It’s for everyone. If they can see an animal coming, at least they can slow down.”

There are about 4000 dogs in Rarotonga. Borzakian was able to bring an initial 2000 reflective collars and there are more on the way. 

David hopes to get each collar distributed and urges the community, local elders and churches to reach out to support the Cook Islands SPCA with this task. 

“SPCA have always advocated for the safety and care of the animals on the island and this is just another way of creating safety for them with help from Annette,” says David.

The team has been busy delivering collars in Muri, Titikaveka and Tikioki among other villages.  

This Saturday Cook Islands SPCA volunteers will be at Punanga Nui Market with some of the shelter residents, dogs and puppies up for adoption.

Sher says: “We’re packed to the rafters with 50 odd dogs that need forever homes. The collars will help to keep those dogs safe when they’re adopted.” 

David adds a reminder on behalf of the SPCA: “Please remember to get your dogs de-sexed by contacting Te Are Manu.”