Transfer Partners

When we work together, we can save more lives. It’s that simple. Maui Humane Society partners with animal rescue organizations on the continent to support each other, share knowledge, and find homes for pets in need.

Given the unique challenges of being the only open-intake shelter on an island — such as the severe housing crisis on Maui and the limitations of airplane transport — our need for transfer partners is more critical than ever. Our responsibilities require us to accept all animals, regardless of their condition or circumstance, which means we often receive more animals than can be adopted into our local community. By collaborating with others, we can ensure that more animals find the care and forever homes they deserve.

The process of transferring pets from Maui Humane Society to a Transfer Partner involves careful coordination and communication.

1.  MHS provides detailed information about each transfer candidate, including medical history and records, behavior notes, and photos, allowing Transfer Partners to review and confirm suitability.

2. Once the Transfer Partner has selected a pet to welcome to their organization, Maui Humane Society will arrange the pet’s travel and medical clearance.

3. Ownership of the animal is then transferred to the Transfer Partner upon flight departure.

4. Once the transfer is complete, the Transfer Partner must confirm receipt of the animals and return any borrowed airline kennels. MHS will obtain a return airway bill for returned airline kennels to cover the cost.

Spay/neuter surgery confirmation for unaltered animals must be provided within the agreed timeframe. Both parties are expected to communicate promptly to ensure smooth and humane handling throughout the process.

This code of conduct outlines the principles we follow and expect our partners to uphold:

• • • We commit to being open, courteous, and flexible when discussing any pet.
    • We pledge to address questions or concerns promptly.
    • We will communicate with our Transfer Partners’ staff and volunteers openly, honestly, and respectfully, both privately and publicly.
    • We will never request an adoption or transfer fee from our partners.
    • We will use humane, positive-reinforcement training methods for all pets in our care.
    • We are committed to providing prompt and attentive veterinary care by a licensed veterinary team, along with maintaining clean and safe facilities for our pets.

Maui Humane Society’s Wings of Aloha program flies homeless pets from Maui to adoption-guaranteed shelters and rescues on the continent who welcome them with open arms. Exclusively funded since 2017 by the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, Wings of Aloha covers all transfer costs, making it entirely donor-supported. Wings of Aloha addresses immediate needs by flying pets to areas with greater adoption opportunities, saving lives and easing shelter overcrowding. Learn more!