HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Hawaiian Humane Society is working to reunite lost pets with their ʻohana following the influx of lost pets turned into their shelters for the Fourth of July weekend.
This year’s July 4 and July 5 brought in one more pet than last year’s — 39 total pets were brought to the Hawaiian Humane Society in 2024 while 40 were brought in this year.
During this year’s timeframe, one bird, 16 cats and 23 dogs were brought to their shelters. Of the animals brought in, seven dogs have since been reunited with their families. Two deceased pets were also brought in during this time, with the humane society saying they fled their homes in fright and were struck by vehicles or sustained fatal injuries.
Last year, the Hawaiian Humane Society saw an 18% return rate of lost pets, which emphasizes the importance of families checking the humane society’s Lost Pets page.
The Hawaiian Humane Society says that prevention of pets escaping is critical, particularly during stressful times such as fireworks-related events and holidays.
Proper pet identification such as microchipping and up-to-date collars are essential, as well as keeping pets inside during fireworks or other loud, anxiety-inducing events.
The Hawaiian Humane Society’s reception and reunification efforts of the lost pets will continue in the coming days.