Sarah Haynes, a resident of Maui, Hawaii, has a passion for animal rescue and is dedicated to saving them. However, during the devastating wildfires in Maui in early August, Haynes and other animal rescuers were inexplicably denied access to the burn zone to save pets. Fortunately, as of late Saturday, Aug. 26, the Maui Humane Society has been granted permission to enter the burn zone and conduct a coordinated search-and-rescue effort to find surviving animals in need of urgent care.
In a press release posted on their Facebook page, the Maui Humane Society announced that they would be working alongside Animal Search And Rescue (ASAR)/Animal Incident Management (AIM) and Greater Good Charities trapping team to trap and rescue animals that have been reported by the public and first responders. Their primary focus will be on cat colonies and stray pets. The Maui Humane Society is fully committed to saving lives and reuniting animals with their families.
Sarah Haynes, founder of the Kitty Charm Farm, a 501 (c)3 animal rescue organization, expressed her disappointment at being initially denied access to the burn zone. As an experienced animal rescuer, she had immediately prepared her equipment and team to start rescuing animals once it was safe. However, despite her best efforts, she was not permitted to enter the area.
During the first few days, Haynes managed to rescue a week-old kitten covered in ashes and in need of bottle feeding. She also discovered a singed cat sitting on the steps of the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, which miraculously survived the fire. However, access to the burn zone was eventually closed off to Haynes and other rescuers, leaving countless animals in need of help.
Haynes emphasized that there are many animals still trapped in the burn zone, including cats that have sought refuge underground in storm drains. Even individuals whose homes were spared by the fire were unable to retrieve their pets or confirm if they were alive. This situation is in direct violation of the PETS Act, which mandates support and care for pets and service animals during emergencies.
Haynes expressed frustration over the lack of enforcement of the PETS Act and questioned the reasoning behind blocking access to the burn zone. She argued that hungry and scared animals are more likely to disturb human remains if left unfed. Haynes and a group of volunteers organized food drops around the perimeter of the burn zone to sustain surviving animals.
Despite the challenges, Haynes remains determined to save as many pets as possible. She believes that there is still hope to find alive animals and is continuing her efforts. The recent permission granted to animal rescue teams to enter the burn zone is seen as a significant step in the right direction by animal rescue organizations.
Overall, the situation in Maui remains difficult for both animals and their owners. The Maui Humane Society, together with other rescue teams, is working tirelessly to rescue and reunite pets with their families. It is a race against time, but with the dedication and persistence of individuals like Sarah Haynes, there is hope for the survival and well-being of these animals.
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