HIHS Shares Tips on Pet Evacuation

The unpredictability of the Kīlauea Volcano eruption and lava flow reminds us that upfront planning now can ease stressful situations, according to a Hawaii Island Humane Society press release.

Make plans today for you and your pets in the event of any roads becoming impassable because of the lava flow. You may be asked to leave with little or no notice. Do not leave animals behind.

Pet-Friendly Shelters

Pāhoa Community Center, Kea‘au Senior Center and the Sure Foundation Church in Kea‘au are pet-friendly centers where dogs and cats are sheltered with their owners. The Red Cross Shelters are all pet-friendly and still have space if you are displaced with your pets.

HIHS has provided supplies at each of the shelters for your pets’ care and comfort.

Here are a few guidelines to help keep pets and animals safe in the event of an evacuation:

• HIHS encourages all pet owners to be safe and prepared. If you are advised to evacuate, please consider your pet’s safety. Do not leave animals behind.
• Develop your plan now for their ongoing care including transportation requirements. Reach out to family and friends to discuss arrangements now in the event of evacuation. If you need to organize boarding elsewhere, get in touch with a boarding facility for advance arrangements.
• The HIHS Kea‘au Shelter does not board animals. Do not drop off animals here.
• Pāhoa Community Center and Kea‘au Senior Center are pet friendly shelters. The dogs and cats are being housed at the shelters with their owners.
• Larger animals including horses and livestock may need to be moved well in advance. Call friends or family members to locate alternate pastures.
• Gather items for your pet’s emergency kit—crate, leash, food, water, bowls, towel, identification and medication, if applicable.
• If you evacuate, arrive at your destination prepared with your pet’s emergency kit and take your pets!
• Do not leave animals behind.

If you are having a hard time in either finding the resources or someone to help you evacuate your pet or animal, call the HIHS’s Kea‘au Shelter at (808) 966-5458 and HIHS will try to help.