Deadly fires in the paradise of Maui starting in early August have been unspeakably horrific. But inspiringly, there are glimpses of hope from heroic rescuers daily. The Maui Humane Society is working tirelessly with numerous other local and international groups. Their mission is to help surviving pets reunite with their families as they return to charred wreckage, toxic ash, and fouled water in Lahaina.
3,000 Animals Need to Find Their Families
The deadly and devastating fires separated an estimated 3,000 animals from their human families. Thus far, at least 1,122 pets have been officially reported lost. Sadly, the fires mostly destroyed residential structures, and firefighters worked even as their own homes burned. Such is the incredible sense of helping the community and aloha (love and affection) in Maui.
So far, the Humane Society has taken in about 60 severely traumatized and injured pets. Katie Shannon, the Director of Marketing, spoke with ABC News, describing the horrendous suffering from smoke inhalation and extreme burns.
“I don’t think that their owner may even know that it is their cat because they look so burnt,” Shannon said.
Katie Shannon, the Director of Marketing at Maui Humane Society. Screenshots via YouTube/ABC News
Alani the Cat Survived with Severe Burns
Below is one such kitty named Alani, meaning the color orange in Hawaiian. He needs intense medical care, and given that he has no microchip, the search for his family is ongoing. Despite severe burns, they are hopeful he will make it with ongoing treatment and lots of love.
“Alani has been with us for 4 days now, he is getting daily foot soaks to treat his paws, he’s getting medications to help with the pain and burns, he’s eating like a champ, and he purrs with very gentle pets. All signs that he is feeling better. This will not be a quick and easy recovery for Alani. As Maui Humane Society gets more access into Lahaina, we can expect to find more animals in Alani’s condition, many even worse,” the Maui Humane Society shared.
Image via Instagram/mauihumanesociety
Ho’omau the Cat Perseveres and Offers Aloha
Another cat, a 3-month-old stray named Ho’omau, arrived at a Lahaina pop-up station for the Humane Society thanks to a Good Samaritan. Like Alani, he wasn’t microchipped, but the rescuers will do all they can to save him after he was burned on his face and paws. All he wants to do is give love and is sweet despite his serious injuries.
In the video below, you can see this boy is a fighter and a lover who heartwarmingly purrs whenever the kind rescuers hold him.
“When our crew returned from Lahaina last night, they brought him back to the Maui Humane Society to receive ongoing care. Last night, he was depressed. This morning he greeted us with loud meows and the yearning for affection. We know he has an Ohana out there,” the Maui Humane Society shared.
“Despite what he has been through, his spirits are still up, and he inspires us. We named him “Ho’omau.” It means to persevere. We hope that Ho’omau can inspire you too. That even during these tragic times to not lose hope, to show aloha and to give aloha.”
You can see Ho’omau’s story of perseverance below.
Video via Instagram/mauihumanesociety
Signs of Hope and Aloha in Maui
Despite being unable to safely travel and a lack of cell service, some of the pets had joyful reunions with their families. Others will be long-term rescues as families have been quickly forced to relocate.
As we’ve fortunately seen repeatedly, such reunions bring hope to thousands where there is little. And this can have a profound importance in times of crisis.
“Imagine the hope that you would have [to see] your animal coming through the doors of Maui Humane Society,” Shannon said.
Another cause for hope is reported by witnesses who’ve seen surviving animals congregating, including cats, dogs, and farm animals.
Shannon says those who want to help can donate directly at Maui Humane Society’s website. As always, beware of the ever-present scammers and avoid donating unless you are 100% sure. Such donations are critical for the ongoing care of these animals and families, which may last months or more.
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While saving as many animals as possible, the Humane Society follows strict local and national protocols.
Video by ABC News:
