MAUI, HAWAII: The aftermath of the catastrophic wildfires that have swept through Maui County has left both animals and residents in distress. The dire situation has prompted urgent calls for assistance from the Maui Humane Society and local authorities.
As the fires continue to rage, the Maui Humane Society has launched a heartfelt plea to the community for support in protecting and caring for the animals affected by the disaster.
Urgent plea to protect animals
The Maui Humane Society is facing a critical situation as they endeavor to shelter and care for animals impacted by the wildfires.
Community members are being urged to step forward as foster caregivers for rescued pets at the society, creating vital space for the continued influx of injured and displaced animals that require urgent assistance.
In an emotional appeal, the society states, "We need your help now more than ever. If you can open your heart and home to a foster animal, please do so without hesitation."
How to respond to Maui Humane Society SOS appeal?
The society has outlined several ways in which the community can provide aid. One initiative, the "SOS foster" program, encourages individuals to take in a current pet from the society, providing a safe haven until further updates on the situation are available.
Donations are also crucial, with funds being directed toward essential medical care for the animals' survival. Additionally, the society is in dire need of pet supplies, including dry and wet pet food, which can be conveniently dropped off at designated locations.
Those off island can also donate via the Society’s Amazon Wishlist. Monetary donations are also welcome.
Supplies and aid will be distributed to the community, other shelters, and pet owners who are facing desperate circumstances.
Urgent needs and preparations
The challenges faced by the Maui Humane Society go beyond immediate shelter and nourishment. They are calling on pet fosters who possess unused carriers to donate them to the shelter for rescue efforts.
Furthermore, the society urgently requires Silber Sulfadiazine, a critical treatment to prevent and heal infections in burn wounds, a testament to the severity of injuries sustained by these animals.
Preparedness is key, and the society is actively assembling pet emergency kits to address the evolving needs of animals during this crisis.
The call for support encompasses a wide range of items, including pet treats, dog and cat beds, towels, blankets, collars, leashes, harnesses, food and water dishes, and litter trays.
Reuniting lost pets
For those who have lost or found pets in Maui, the society offers practical guidance.
Individuals who have lost pets are encouraged to ask around, upload photos of their pets to platforms like the Petco Love website, and share images on social media and through neighborhood signage.
If a pet is found, reaching out to Humane Enforcement at 808-877-3680 is advised. Officials will assist in identifying microchips and reuniting pets with their owners.
Among the stories of resilience and recovery, one stood out in particular. The heartwarming rescue saw a dog being saved from the deadly flames at the nick of time on Tuesday, August 8.
The canine suffered severe burns to her paws, blisters along her body, and scorched whiskers. In stable condition, she now awaits reunification with her rightful owner, showcasing the dedication of those on the frontlines of animal rescue, KITV reported.
Devastating toll and unprecedented scale
Tragically, the wildfires have left a trail of destruction, extending beyond the welfare of animals. Maui County Mayor Richard T. Bissen Jr delivered a somber assessment of the impact, stating that the historic Lahaina neighborhood, once a thriving tourist hub, has been obliterated.
With over 53 confirmed deaths and the number expected to rise, the fires are emerging as the second deadliest blaze in the United States in a century, trailing only California's devastating Camp Fire of 2018.
Amidst the wreckage, Governor Josh Green is urging the state's solidarity. He appealed to hotels and residents to open their doors to the thousands displaced by this tragedy, emphasizing the shared responsibility to extend compassion and support to those grappling with loss.
In his words, "All of us will have a loved one here on Maui that we know of, that lost a house, that lost a friend."
That said, while the fires have scorched the landscape, they have also illuminated the compassion and unity of the community.
