Dogs and Cats of the Dominican Republic is extremely proud to have developed relationships with rescuers throughout the island which now enables us to be able to oversee 2 animal sanctuaries located in Luperon (Puerto Plata), and Punta Cana. Our uniquely designed Havens allow animals at our facilities to not have to be kept isolated in small cages or small runs, but rather they are allowed to live in family units in expansive areas that provide lots of room for running, playing, and interacting.  Experience has shown us that the best therapy for many Dominican dogs is being with other dogs. Our facilities allow us to take in well over 100 needy animals off the streets at a time, get them healthy, get them socialized, and then get them adopted.

🐾 COCONUT HOUND HAVEN (Luperón)

Tucked away on the stunning north coast of the Dominican Republic, our Luperón sanctuary is where second chances begin. Since 2018, this haven has provided safety, care, and love to dogs who have nowhere else to go.

🌴 About the Haven

Coconut Hound Haven in Luperón is home to approximately 50 dogs at any given time, carefully managed to ensure each animal receives the attention, care, and enrichment they deserve. Every dog here has a story—and every story matters.

🏥 Special Features

This location is one of the most dynamic hubs within Dogs and Cats of the Dominican Republic:

• On-site sterilization clinic supporting spay/neuter efforts

• Isolation and intake quarantine areas for new and vulnerable arrivals

• Expanding infrastructure, including future on-site volunteer accommodations for visiting vets, trainers, and skilled volunteers

• Ongoing development to improve quality of life for long-term residents

💛 Meet Olga

Our longest resident, Olga, has been with us since May 2019. She’s a spirited, lovable pit mix with a big personality and even bigger hops—earning her the nickname “our bouncy bunny.” Olga thrives in the play yard, loves a good game of fetch, and melts into cuddles once she’s had her fun. Because she requires a very specific home (as an only pet with secure fencing), her perfect match has been hard to find—but we know they’re out there. Until then, she is deeply loved right here.

🔨 Current Projects

We’re constantly growing to better serve our dogs. Current initiatives include:

• Building new individual enclosures for dogs who need their own space

• Developing a second play yard for enrichment and exercise

• Creating a memorial garden in honour of Haven founder Kim Watson

🙋‍♀️ Visiting & Volunteering

We love welcoming supporters—but always in a way that keeps our dogs first.
Visits and volunteer opportunities are available by appointment only through our website. This ensures a calm, structured environment for the animals while allowing meaningful, hands-on experiences for our guests.