County to Assume Animal Control Duties July 1

Hawaiʻi County will assume the responsibility of animal control on July 1, 2021, the Mayor’s Office announced on Wednesday.

The contract currently held by the Hawaiʻi Rainbow Rangers expired June 30 and will not be extended, the release explained. As part of the transition, a temporary moratorium of animal intake is in place, and services are limited to the care of the animals currently in the facilities.

There are no plans for mass euthanasia, the county said, as it seeks to find permanent homes for the existing animals. Until further notice, concerned residents are asked to contact the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s (HPD) nonemergency line at 808-935-3311.

“As an administration, it is our job to ensure that all residents of our island home receive the best possible care and service – including our four-legged friends,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “Although we understand that the transition may be bumpy, we believe it is in the best interest of our community to move in that direction. Our community and our trusted companions deserve better.”

Any additional nonprofits or other groups willing to assist with the intake and adoption of animals during the transition may contact HPD and provide their information via email to the following address: hpdanimalcontrol@hawaiicounty.gov.

The county’s announcement begs several questions about animal control moving forward. Big Island Now will follow-up on this story as more details become available.