Hawaii County is warning of a potentially “bumpy” transition as it resumes animal control responsibilities after the county’s contract with nonprofit coalition Hawaii Rainbow Rangers expired June 30, KHON2 reported.
There is a temporary moratorium on animal intake, KHON2 said. The county is seeking permanent homes for animals in the shelter, and there are are no plans for mass euthanasia.
“As an administration, it is our job to ensure that all residents of our island home receive the best possible care and service -- including our four-legged friends,” Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth said, according to KHON2. “Although we understand that the transition may be bumpy, we believe it is in the best interest of our community to move in that direction. Our community and our trusted companions deserve better.”
Volunteer groups who would like to help should contact the Hawaii Police Department or email hpdanimalcontrol@hawaiicounty.gov. "Concerned residents" can also call the police nonemergency number at 808-935-3311.
The county’s announcement “begs several questions about animal control moving forward,” Big Island Now said.
Hawaii Rainbow Rangers is a coalition of nonprofit groups launched in 2020 to manage the county's animal control services, according to its website.
"Our mission is to provide comprehensive animal care services and implement lifesaving programs to achieve a 90% save rate while bringing the animal population to a sustainable level," the website says.
Hawaii Rainbow Rangers' goal is to increase community involvement in animal control services.
"Our vision is for the community, animal welfare organizations, animal shelters and residents is to work together and hold themselves accountable for ushering in an era that would provide safety and comfort for every animal," the website says.
The Hawaii Rainbow Rangers had 15 full-time control officers and three shelters serving the Big Island. The county paid Hawaii Rainbow Rangers about $164,000 per month for its services, the Hawaii Tribune-Herald reported.