Big Island pets can vie for spots in Aloha ʻĪlio Rescue’s 2027 Calendar

Big Island pet owners have a chance to put their furry friends in the spotlight while raising money for animals in need through Aloha ʻĪlio Rescue’s first pet calendar contest.

The online photo fundraiser is underway through 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22. Participants can submit a favorite photo of their pet for a $5 donation and encourage friends and family to vote.

Each vote costs $1, with proceeds benefiting the rescue.

At the end of the contest, the 12 pets receiving the most votes will each be featured in a month of the organization’s 2027 calendar. The pet with the highest overall vote total will appear on the cover.

Pets that receive at least 10 votes will also earn a spot in the calendar. Dogs and cats are eligible to participate. The organization has so far raised more than $6,000, exceeding its $5,000 goal.

“Our community shows up for us, and we show up for our community,” said Daylynn Kyles, founder and CEO of Aloha ʻĪlio Rescue.

“The calendar is a way to celebrate how much we love our pets and to support our work for animals and their people across the island.”

Pet owners can also reserve a specific date on the calendar for a $50 donation. The option allows supporters to have their pet’s photo printed on a chosen date, such as a birthday or a day commemorating a pet that has died.

Funds raised through entries, votes and reserved calendar dates will support Aloha ʻĪlio Rescue programs across the Big Island. Those efforts include animal adoptions and fostering, spay-and-neuter services, emergency medical care, a pet food pantry, and programs designed to help families keep their pets.

Click here to submit entries and votes.