Did you know Hawai`i Doggie Bakery was founded in 1998 by two sisters from Punahou?  It’s true!  Jen Kunishima Sarsuelo and Trudy Mahelona got the idea for the bakery when their pregnant dog Ipo needed to adopt a healthier diet for her 9 puppies on the way.  Since then, they have been committed to providing the doggies of Hawai`i with the freshest local ingredients, and Hawai`i Doggie Bakery is beloved by many two-legged and four-legged fans alike!

Turn the page to 2012, and Hawai`i Doggie Bakery is about to close up shop.  Another set of sisters hears the news and contacts Jen in a panic…is it true?!?!  You’re not closing forever, are you???  The two new sisters are worried about where they will get treats for their dogs (and their dogs are looking worried too).  The sisters have so many friends who love HDB as well, and they tell Jen that they can’t possibly stand for Hawai`i Doggie Bakery to close.  What can they do to stop this from happening??

Jen laughs and reassures the two worried sisters that the bakery is only temporarily closed.  But as the sisters and Jen continue to talk, they all realize that maybe this is what they call “fate.”  The three of them talked, laughed and shared stories — Jen about her passion for creating HDB, and the sisters about their admiration and love for what she created.  Eventually they decided that time had come to pass over the rolling pin and for Jen to hang up her apron.  It was the chance for a new set of sisters to put their own spin on providing Hawai`i doggies with freshly baked, healthy local treats!

So hello Hawai`i Doggie Bakery fans and enthusiasts!  My name is Niki Libarios, and my sister Tasha and I are the new owners of Hawai`i Doggie Bakery.  We are so excited to welcome you to the new HawaiiDoggieBakery.org, and continue on the HDB legacy with all of you!

Two sets of sisters: Niki & Tasha with Katsumi & Kuri Firefox!

What’s next for Hawaii Doggie Bakery?  You’ll just have to stay tuned to our blog, and make sure to like us on Facebook.  If you’re a Twitter-er come find us @HIDogBakery!