Hailey Robinson’s birthday party went to the dogs.

When 6-year-old Hailey Robinson of Mukilteo planned her birthday, she didn’t ask for a new teddy bear or the latest video. She wanted dog food and chew toys for homeless dogs in a WAIF shelter on Whidbey Island.

Her invitation read “rather than gifts for Hailey, please bring a donation for a dogs shelter such as dog food, dog toy treats or whatever.”

Hailey’s inspiration came from the children’s PBS television show, “Zoom.”

A segment of the show is called “ZOOM into action” that offers stories about kids who volunteer.

Hailey’s grandmother, Helen Shields of Langley, said her granddaughter started talking about finding a way to volunteer a year ago.

“She started thinking about what she was able to do to help others,” Shields said. “As it got closer to her birthday, she hatched the plan with the help of her mom.”

“But not before her mom asked her, ‘Are you sure you want to skip getting gifts from your friends?’” her grandmother recalled.

“The little girl was determined to help dogs. She loves dogs,” Shields said.

Her friends rallied to the cause, bringing Hailey hundreds of pounds of dog food, plus treats, toys and dog dishes.

Hailey and her family delivered the goods to the WAIF Shelter in Coupeville, where WAIF staff took the young philanthropist on an extended tour of the facility.

Hailey wants to be a veterinarian now.

“The dogs are very appreciative of Hailey’s gifts,” said Shari Bibich, manager of the WAIF shelter.

“We were just delighted when Hailey’s family contacted us and wanted to give so much to WAIF,” Bibich said. “What a special little girl.”

Gayle Saran can be contacted at 221-5300 or gsaran@south

whidbeyrecord.com.