HIHS Shelters to Reopen to Public in August

The Hawai‘i Island Humane Society (HIHS) is slated to reopen its two animal shelters to the public in August.

The Animal Community Center in mauka Kona is set to open Sunday, Aug. 1 with the Keaau shelter reopening on Sunday, Aug. 15. Both shelters will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We are excited about welcoming the community back to our Kona and Keaau campuses. Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic concerns, the Hawaii Island Humane Society will not be doing a ‘grand opening’ but rather a welcoming opportunity for the community to come back to reacquaint themselves with our beautiful facilities, programs and of course, our dedicated staff. Our well cared for animals speak for themselves,” said HIHS CEO Lauren Nickerson.

Guided tours are planned at both facilities and the HIHS will have extra adoption counselors on hand to work with families looking for a pet. It is highly recommended that anyone looking to adopt start the adoption process online at home.

To take a dog or cat home on Aug. 1, HIHS officials say an application must be submitted for review by July 27. Click here for more information on how to adopt. Send an email to adopt@hihs.org for further questions.

HIHS is also recruiting volunteers for both the Kona and Kea‘au shelters.

“We have redeveloped our volunteer program based on best practices from other animal welfare organizations nationwide to create a new and rewarding volunteer experience and we have a variety of volunteer opportunities in Kona and Keaau,” said Lauren Nickerson.

To volunteer, email Volunteer Coordinator Jessica Kalsky at volunteer@hihs.org.