PUUNENE, Hawaii (KHON2) — Three dogs were rescued from a brush fire in Wailuku.
Officials said Maui police officers were called to the area on July 13 around 2 p.m. Police rescued the large dogs and carried them across the Wailuku River to safety.
They were rushed to the Central Maui Animal Clinic for immediate treatment. According to the Maui Humane Society, one dog was put down due to smoke inhalation, burns, and a body temperature of 110°F.
The shelter said the other two dogs had difficulty breathing due to smoke inhalation and mild-to-severe burns. They are now being cared for by the Maui Humane Society.
“Our team is extremely grateful for the swift action of Maui Police Department, Maui Fire Department, and Central Maui Animal Clinic in this rescue,” said Tanya Hosoda, MHS’ Director of Field Services. “Our officers respond to emergencies for unowned animals island-wide 24/7, but working together with these agencies and partners is the only way these lives would have been saved. It was an amazing effort by all involved.”
The Maui Humane Society reminds pet owners to include their pets in their emergency plans, making sure that they have updated identification and emergency supplies.