HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-06-13 Humane Society press release re animal rescues
Contact:
Donna Whitaker, Executive Director
Exec.dir@hihs.org, (808) 329-8002
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
ANIMAL RESCUE PLANNING TASK FORCE FORMED
KEAAU, HAWAII (06.14.18) – A community meeting was convened this past Saturday by the
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Hawaii Island Humane
Society (HIHS) to discuss initiating an independent assessment of the areas affected by the
eruption and ways to improve communication among the various parties including residents,
rescue organizations and government entities.
Representatives from various government agencies and animal organizations participated in a
planning session with the intent to create an assessment plan, define infrastructure in place
and enhance communications.
“We’ve made great progress. Mahalo to everyone providing valuable situational awareness and
offering to help with plans and initiatives moving forward,” said community meeting organizers,
ASPCA Senior Director for Disaster Response Dr. Dick Green and HIHS Executive Director Donna
Whitaker.
A fly over assessment of the eruption areas was conducted on June 11 while two teams
completed a ground assessment of the Leilani Estates subdivision. Given the results from the
assessment, a response plan is being developed.
Gaining permission and safe access to areas affected by the eruption remains a high priority for
the task force. Firm plans and communication are now in place with the various agencies to
seek permission to gain safe access to rescue animals and pets.
To initiate a rescue request for your animal or pet call the Hawaii Island Humane Society at 808-
498-9475. The HIHS animal and pet rescue hotline will be open from 7 am to 7 pm daily.
Hawaii Island Humane Society has rescued approximately 150+ animals with nearly all returned
to owners and the remainder in foster homes. Hawaii Island Humane Society is also exploring
ways to enhance capacity at the Keaau Shelter and expanding fostering opportunities. Disaster-
related animals will be housed at the Keaau Shelter for 30 days to allow for reunification with
owners.
For up-to-minute information follow HIHS on social media on Facebook @HIHSoc and Twitter
@HIHumaneSoc.
About Hawaii Island Humane Society
The mission of the Hawaii Island Humane Society is to promote respect for all animals, prevent
cruelty to animals, eliminate pet overpopulation, and enhance the bond between humans and
animals. HIHS holds a contract with the County of Hawaii to enforce certain animal-related laws
and it offers 24-hour service for injured animals and other animal emergencies, humane
education classes, low-cost spay and neuter services, lost and found assistance, micro-chipping
and more. Learn more at HIHS.org or call 808-329-1175. For more information, visit hihs.org.
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