At UNITED K9, we celebrate the powerful bond between people and dogs. But we also recognize that in some communities, that bond has been weakened — and rebuilding it is both a challenge and an opportunity. That’s why we’re proud to welcome Luka Bakari, a young Innu from Pessamit, a First Nations community on Quebec’s north shore. Luka is bringing a voice that speaks not only of tradition, but also of the problems communities face today.

For the Innu, as for many First Nations, dogs were once central to daily life. They were protectors, guides, and vital partners in survival. Yet in many communities today, including Pessamit, this connection has eroded. Instead of being seen as allies, dogs are often perceived as a burden — linked to overpopulation, lack of veterinary access, and safety concerns.

The challenges are real

• Limited access to veterinary care, making it difficult to manage health, injuries, or population control.

• Stray and roaming dogs, which can lead to safety issues for residents, especially children.

• Lack of training and education resources, which prevents people from building positive, safe relationships with their dogs.

• Misconceptions and generational gaps, where the role of the dog has shifted so far from tradition that its cultural value is often overlooked.

This is the landscape that Luka wants to change. His mission is to reintroduce the dog as a partner and protector, both honoring Innu heritage and adapting to modern realities. He believes that by creating awareness, improving access to resources, and fostering dialogue, communities can turn challenges into opportunities.