Diesel’s Legacy
Created in loving memory of Diesel, the DIESEL Project supports shelter dogs who struggle in kennel environments, pairing them with professional trainers and structured guidance to help them build confidence and move forward toward adoption.
Meet Diesel
Diesel came to K9 Kismet at a time when his needs were greater than what most rescues could take on. He required extensive medical care, long-term support, and patience without a defined timeline.
Rather than measuring him by how quickly he could move forward, we focused on what would make him feel safe, comfortable, and cared for in the present.
Diesel remained with us. He was supported, known, and deeply loved. In his own quiet way, he reminded us that some dogs are not meant to be rushed or evaluated solely by how easily they fit into the adoption system.
Why the Diesel Project Exists
Not every shelter dog struggles because they lack potential. Many struggle because the kennel environment is overwhelming, isolating, and difficult to navigate.
The Diesel Project was created to give those dogs structured support outside of the shelter setting. Through professional assessment, individualized training, and thoughtful transition planning, we help them decompress, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to succeed in a home.
These are not dogs without promise. They are dogs who need the right environment to show it.
Inside The Diesel Project
The goal is clear: help kennel-stressed dogs build confidence, develop foundational skills, and prepare for successful adoption.
Assessment & Pairing
Dogs who are struggling in a kennel environment are paired with a professional trainer for individualized assessment and planning.
Board & Train Programs
Each dog completes a personalized four-to-six-week board and train program focused on decompression, structure, and skill-building.
Sharing the Journey
Throughout training, we share updates, progress clips, and stories with the community to help people see these dogs beyond the kennel.
Transition to Adoption
When a dog is adopted, the trainer provides a transition session with the new family to support a confident, successful start together.
Dogs Helped Through The Diesel Project
8
Dogs Enrolled
4
Adoptions Completed
1
Seeking a Forever Home
3
In Training
Meet Suki
Suki is a 1 year old female Cattle Dog Mix. She’s completed her training with Robert Villaneda of Universal Dog Training and is currently in a foster home.
Suki would love to get her second chance with her forever family!
If you are interested in adopting Suki, reach out to LBACS or contact us at info@k9kismet.org to meet her.
Follow the Diesel Dogs’ Journeys
We share real-time updates, training clips, and progress stories for each Diesel Project dog on Instagram. It’s the best place to see how they’re doing and follow their journey as it unfolds.