Hawaiʻi County hires new administrator for the Animal Control and Protection Agency

Regina DoDaro is returning to the Animal Control and Protection Agency as the new administrator effective Monday, Aug. 3.

DoDaro, a Hawaiʻi Island resident, previously served as the County of Hawaiʻi Animal Control Director within the Hawaiʻi Police Department from 2021 to 2023. During that time, she oversaw the transition of animal control services from the Hawaiʻi Police Department to the newly created Animal Control and Protection Agency.

“I wish to congratulate Regina DoDaro on her return to the County as Animal Control and Protection Administrator,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said. “She has extensive knowledge with the issues the agency oversees, and I am confident that her experience, both in the nonprofit and public sectors, and dedication to the community will enhance public safety and animal welfare across our island.”

DoDaro holds certifications in veterinary technology, animal control and sheltering, animal welfare leadership, and animal search and rescue, including fire and water evacuation response.

Additionally, she was previously the director of field services and community outreach for the Maui Humane Society and director of operations for the Hawaiʻi Island Humane Society. She also served as the former executive director for the Naperville Area Humane Society.

“The work of animal control is complex, but our mission is clear: to protect both people and animals while serving our community with professionalism, fairness and compassion,” DoDaro said. “By listening, communicating openly, and treating every person and every animal with dignity and respect, we can continue to earn and strengthen the public’s trust in the vital role the agency provides to our community.”