An Update on MHS' Fire Response
After taking in more than 880 animals from the burn zone since August 2023, Maui Humane Society’s Fire Task Force has transitioned to phase II of its response throughout Lahaina and the surrounding areas. This phase of our response focuses primarily on Trap Neuter Vaccinate & Release (TNVR) efforts along the perimeter of the burn zone and door-to-door outreach. MHS’ Reunification Specialists remain dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families, including pets in MHS’ care and those humanely trapped through TNVR efforts.
MHS’ commitment to the pets and people of Maui remains strong. We look forward to supporting the Lahaina community and beyond by working alongside our partners and our community’s animal advocates. (Updated March 14, 2024)
Community Cat Support
Pet Reunification
Pet Resources
Are there still cats in the burn zone?
At this time, it is believed that cats who survived the tragic fires have been successfully removed from the burn zone.
While some cats have periodically been seen using feeding stations inside of the burn zone, these are not cats identified as “at risk” or reliant solely upon these feeding stations as their main source of food. These cats appear to be healthy and are generally believed to be cared for by community cat caretakers located along the perimeter areas.
As cats are free-roaming animals and the burn zone is not fully secured, community cats have the ability to enter and exit the premises in search of food. We are coordinating with established caretakers on the perimeter to ensure there are appropriate feeding opportunities so that free-roaming cats are deterred from wandering into the burn zone.
We encourage sick or injured animals to be reported to MHS’ Humane Enforcement department by calling (808) 877-3680 ext. 222.
Community Cat Support
In this next phase, MHS will focus on Trap Neuter Vaccinate & Release (TNVR) efforts along the perimeter of the burn zone and door-to-door outreach, with the primary target areas being Wahikuli and Lahainaluna. Through this targeted outreach, we aim to connect with community cat caretakers located along the burn zone perimeter and provide TNVR support as needed.
All cats trapped through our TNVR efforts will be examined in the field for any signs of ownership, including microchips, collars, and ear tattoos. Cats who are found to have signs of ownership will be transported to MHS to begin the reunification process.
Community cat caretakers and cat owners in this area can contact ccc@mauihumanesociety.
Pet Resources
MHS will continue offering resources dedicated to keeping pets with their owners, along with a new Veterinary Voucher Program, coming soon.
MHS currently offers a number of mobile wellness clinic events for caretakers and their pets seeking care. In this second phase, we will expand on these options and locations to offer a more robust preventative care service.
For residents of Lahaina seeking care, we recommend visiting our Lahaina Pet Resource Center at 48 Ulupono Street, Lahaina, where we offer a Wellness Clinic every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Lahaina Pet Resource Center supports displaced Lahaina pet owners and those affected by the fire in an accessible location in West Maui, including the more than 300 pets living with their displaced families in temporary hotel housing. This location offers resources to keep pets with their people, such as pet food and supplies, pet-friendly housing resources, financial support for off-island pet travel, veterinary care, and more. Affected pet owners are encouraged to visit the Lahaina Pet Resource Center or email MHS’ Wildfire Community Liaison at [email protected] for assistance.
Location: 48 Ulupono Street, Lahaina, HI, 96761
4EverPets is a community resource to assist low-income families and individuals of Maui, as well as those experiencing financial hardship, who need help caring for their beloved pets. Our goal is to help provide the resources needed in order to prevent people from having to surrender their pets to the shelter and allow their animal companions to remain in a loving home.
FAQS
Are there still cats in the burn zone?
At this time, it is believed that cats who survived the tragic fires have been successfully removed from the burn zone.
While some cats have periodically been seen using feeding stations inside of the burn zone, these are not cats identified as “at risk” or reliant solely upon these feeding stations as their main source of food. These cats appear to be healthy and are generally believed to be cared for by community cat caretakers located along the perimeter areas.
As cats are free-roaming animals and the burn zone is not fully secured, community cats have the ability to enter and exit the premises in search of food. We are coordinating with established caretakers on the perimeter to ensure there are appropriate feeding opportunities so that free-roaming cats are deterred from wandering into the burn zone.
We encourage sick or injured animals to be reported to MHS’ Humane Enforcement department by calling (808) 877-3680 ext. 222.
Are you going to continue feeding and/or trapping in the burn zone?
No, trapping and feeding in the burn zone will not continue, though a dedicated team will continue to monitor the area with field cameras. We are confident that we have successfully captured and relocated all burn zone cats that are considered to be “at risk.”
What if I see a sick cat in the burn zone?
Please call MHS’ Humane Enforcement department at (808) 877-3680 ext. 222 as soon as possible.
What about the Wailuku Annex location?
Our Wailuku Annex location will be closing at the end of March. The remaining cats at this location will be transported to MHS’ Pu’unene shelter to be made available for adoption, transferred to MHS’ adoption partner Cat Cafe Maui, or placed through MHS’ Operation Fire Cat Placement Program.
How can I help Maui's fire cats?
Learn more about how you can help Maui’s fire cats or MHS’ fire response efforts here.