In the debut episode of our podcast series, "Animals of The Maui Wildfires," we embark on a journey with Jenny Miller, the development director of Maui Humane Society (MHS) in August 2023, as she introduces us to the heart and soul of this vital organization, founded in 1952, MHS has evolved into a beacon of animal welfare innovation on the island today.
Impact of the Lahaina Wildfires
The episode delves into the harrowing experiences of MHS staff during the Lahaina wildfires, including Moani Makaiwi, Emily Drose, Johnny Lingao, and Katie Shannon. Their efforts underscore the resilience of Maui's people and their profound bond with their pets.
Building Community Relationships
Beyond rescue operations, MHS fosters deep connections within the community through initiatives like "Beach Buddies" and "Dog on Demand." These programs not only enrich the lives of shelter animals but also provide meaningful experiences for volunteers and visitors alike. MHS's dedication to diverse species—from rabbits to shelter dogs—is evident in their comprehensive care and innovative welfare practices.
Preparation and Response
Moani recounts the tense moments leading up to the Lahaina fire, illustrating MHS's swift mobilization and preparedness for potential evacuations and the challenges they faced as they embarked on intensive search and rescue missions.
Conclusion and Preview
The episode concludes with a poignant account of Katniss, the first canine victim brought to MHS during the fires. This moment underscores the urgency and compassion driving MHS's rescue efforts amidst disaster. Looking ahead, episode two will delve deeper into the personal stories of Emily, Johnny, Katie, and Jenny as they navigate the initial days of the wildfires and the ongoing efforts of Moani as she enters the burn zone.
Call to Action
As we continue to uncover the stories of resilience and community spirit at MHS, we invite you to support their mission. Visit https://www.mauihumanesociety.org/the-deal-with-animals-pod/ to contribute to our goal of raising $10,000 by August 8, 2024. Your support will directly aid in MHS's ongoing rescue, reunification, and adoption programs, making a meaningful impact on the lives of all the animals of Maui.
Thank you for joining us on this journey of compassion, bravery, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Stay tuned for the next episode as we unravel more tales of courage from Maui Humane Society. Together, let's ask, "What’s the deal with the animals of the Maui wildfires?"