Our hearts are with the people of Maui, Hawaii who have been devastated by catastrophic wildfires. The death toll currently stands at 55 people and is expected to rise, and thousands have lost their homes.
As is always the case in disasters like this, animals are also being affected: The Maui Humane Society announced they have taken in a huge amount of pets displaced by the wildfires, and are struggling to keep up with the demand.
Read more about this heroic effort to save Maui’s pets and what you can do to help.
The Maui Humane Society announced yesterday that they are expecting an “inundation of hundreds of animals” due to the wildfires. Many of these animals suffered burns and smoke inhalation and will require critical care.
In light of this crisis, the humane society is asking for donations to help these animals.
“Maui Humane Society is asking for help as the island grapples with the unprecedented and catastrophic impact of the ongoing Maui fires,” they wrote on Facebook. “The fires have left thousands of both humans and animals displaced, causing immense distress and creating an urgent need for solidarity within the community.”
“Funds will allow us to perform lifesaving medical procedures and purchase supplies for families that have lost everything, so they can keep their animals with them.”
In a Facebook fundraiser, the humane society has raised over $200,000 from over 4,000 donors, but is still short of their $300,000 goal.
As the fires spread, the Maui Humane Society warned that they were already over capacity and low on space, so they urged people in their community to step up and take in pets as emergency fosters.
They also asked people to donate supplies like pet food and litter, and asked for volunteers to help communicate with the community over social media platforms. The humane society shared a link to an Amazon wish list, allowing people everywhere to donated supplies.
“As we are experiencing tragedy or know someone who is, we will need to band together as a community for both our humans and animals,” the Maui Humane Society wrote. “If you are in a position to help, please do – and there are multiple ways to help.”
“Fires continue to burn with new fires popping up across the island. In this time of crisis, Maui Humane Society is rallying the community to work together and extend a helping hand and paw to those affected.”
The situation in Maui, Hawaii is heartbreaking and our thoughts are with everyone affected by these catastrophic fires. If you can, please consider donating to help out this overworked shelter during this difficult time.
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