Take A Rescue Dog Out For The Day in Hawaii with Maui Humane Society

The only thing that could make the natural beauty of Maui better is to experience it with a dog by your side. Thanks to the Maui Humane Society's (MHS) Dog Day Outings program, this program is a chance to connect with shelter dogs, experience the beauty of Maui, and make a meaningful impact on their lives.

I recently had the opportunity to experience this program, and took adoptable Charlie out for the day.

dog at the beach

At its core, the Dog Day Outings program is about providing shelter dogs with the love, attention, and adventure they deserve. By taking these dogs out of the shelter environment and into the community, participants offer them a taste of freedom, joy, and companionship that they might not otherwise experience. These outings not only brighten the dogs' day but also boost their physical and mental well-being, making them more adoptable in the process.

After my experience and talking to the shelter volunteers, it’s clear the recent wildfires that swept through Lahaina on Maui left a lasting impact on the Maui Humane Society (MHS) and its efforts to care for animals in need. As the fires spread, families were forced to evacuate, leaving behind beloved pets in the chaos. MHS stepped in, providing shelter, food, and medical aid to displaced animals.

Despite the challenges, the resilience and compassion of the Maui community have been evident. Together, they've rallied to support one another and protect vulnerable animals. As Maui rebuilds, MHS remains committed to its mission of saving lives and ensuring all animals receive the care they deserve, no matter the circumstances.

Through a range of innovative programs and initiatives, community members are encouraged to join hands in creating a brighter future for Maui's animals.

The Dog Day Outings program is a testament to MHS's commitment to the well-being of its shelter animals. By allowing dogs to venture beyond the confines of the shelter and experience the outside world, MHS aims to alleviate stress, promote socialization, and increase adoption chances for these deserving pets.

Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a first-time volunteer, there's a place for you in the Dog Day Outings program. MHS provides comprehensive training and support to ensure that participants feel comfortable and confident during their outings, empowering them to make a positive impact on the lives of shelter dogs.

Here’s Charlie’s story:

charlie at our picnic

“My name is Charlie, and I'm a brave 3-year-old pup with a heart full of love and resilience. Life threw me a curveball when I got hit by a car, but I'm a fighter, and after a long and tough journey to recovery, I'm now ready to embark on a new chapter with a loving ohana!

I may have had a rough past, but that hasn't dampened my spirit. I'm all about joy, playfulness, and spreading positive vibes. You'll often find me wagging my tail with excitement, especially when there are toys involved - I just can't resist a good game of fetch!

Cuddles are my absolute favorite, and I'm a pro at melting hearts with my soulful puppy eyes. Whether it's snuggling up on the couch or curling up in bed, I'm your go-to companion for cozy moments. Oh, and did I mention walks? I absolutely adore exploring the world with my humans by my side.

I'm on the lookout for a forever home where I can feel safe, cherished, and part of a loving family. I've proven that I can overcome challenges, and now I'm ready to share my boundless love with the lucky family that chooses me.

Need a little extra time to make a decision about adopting me? Our Paws to Adopt program gives you 10 days with me in your home before you need to make a decision or finalize the adoption! When you come in ask the front office for details or if I'm currently in a foster home give them a call to set up a time to meet me - 808-877-3680, Ext. 3.”

Charlie's story is a testament to the resilience and spirit of shelter animals. Despite facing challenges, he remains full of love and ready to embark on a new chapter with a loving family. Programs like Dog Day Outings give dogs like Charlie the opportunity to showcase their personalities and find their forever homes.

When I arrived at the shelters, volunteers provided me with all the items I would need for the day in a backpack, answered any questions I had, and Charlie and I headed out our day out together!

dog sleeping in the car

Charlie was a bit nervous at first, but I could tell he immediately relaxed as we got in the car. Since Charlie had just recently had a few surgeries, the volunteers recommended we had a chill day. So I took him to get some food, had a picnic, and finished the day with a stroll on the beach.

I could feel him getting more comfortable and happy with me as the day went on. I have a feeling it might’ve been one of his first times seeing the ocean the way he was splashing around.

dog in the ocean

He was a crowd favorite, getting lots of attention from people passing by! Some people even recognized him from the shelter website.

As with any nonprofit organization, Maui Humane Society relies on the support of its community to continue its vital work. Donations play a crucial role in funding programs like Dog Day Outings, providing medical care, and maintaining shelter facilities. By giving back to MHS, whether through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or participating in fundraising events, you're helping ensure that shelter dogs receive the care, love, and second chances they deserve.

In addition to donations, MHS encourages community members to get involved in other ways, such as fostering animals, spreading awareness about adoption, and advocating for animal welfare issues. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, makes a difference in the lives of shelter animals and contributes to creating a more compassionate world for all beings.

dog at maui beach

So, whether you're a Maui local or just visiting the island, I encourage you to support Maui Humane Society's programs! Experience the joy of spending time with shelter dogs, explore the beauty of Maui, and make a lasting impact on the lives of animals in need.

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