Maui Humane Society Encourages Community to Foster Animals in Response to Capacity Crisis | Local News, Sports, Employment

The Maui News is reporting that the Maui Humane Society (MHS) is in urgent need of the community’s help to temporarily foster homeless pets. With over 500 animals currently in their care, including more than 200 in foster homes, MHS is facing a capacity crisis and lack of kennel space. As Maui’s only open-intake shelter, MHS must keep its doors open for sick, injured, abused, and surrendered animals.

In August 2023, the Lahaina wildfires prompted families across the island to open their homes to foster pets, allowing the shelter to take in animals in critical condition. During that time, 225 animals were placed in foster homes, and in the following two weeks, with the incredible support of the community, 500 pets found temporary homes. Now, nearly a year later, MHS is once again reaching out to the community for help during this capacity crisis.

MHS is actively seeking assistance from the public in fostering and adopting dogs, cats, and small animals. Fosters play a crucial role in temporarily caring for pets at home, freeing up space in the shelter for animals in need of veterinary and behavioral care. Fostering is free of charge, as MHS provides all necessary supplies, training, and support. Those interested in becoming fosters can visit mauihumanesociety.org/foster or stop by MHS during open hours.

In addition to fostering, MHS is also offering $0 adoption fees for all dogs and cats aged 6 months and older, as well as small animals. Kittens under 6 months have adoption fees of just $50. All adoptable pets at MHS are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, and microchipped. The shelter, located in Pu’unene at Mehameha Loop, is open for adoptions Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those interested in adopting a pet can view available animals on MHS‘ website at mauihumanesociety.org/adopt.

As the shelter continues to face challenges with capacity and space, the support of the community is crucial in ensuring that all animals in need receive the care and attention they deserve. By fostering or adopting a pet from MHS, individuals can make a significant impact in helping homeless animals find loving homes. Your support can make a difference in the lives of these animals and help alleviate the current crisis at the Maui Humane Society.