ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Humane Society relies on community interactions

Hawaiian Humane Society

With a staff of about 60 plus and 650 volunteers, it is clear that the Hawaiian Humane Society relies on the people of O'ahu to further our goal of helping all animals in our community.

Volunteers are invaluable, providing more than 70,000 volunteer hours last year. But the animals' circle of friends extends to the entire community. The work of protecting animals extends to:

• Those who take the time to bring a lost pet to the Humane Society where the animal can be reunited with its family.
• Landlords who recognize that most pet owners are responsible tenants and make apartments available to them.
• Those who work for legislation that benefits the welfare of animals.
• Those who spay and neuter their pets so they won't add to the pet population.
• Parents who teach their children to show kindness to animals.
• Those who call the Humane Society when they see an animal being neglected or treated in a cruel manner.
• Those who speak in favor of creating off-leash dog parks in their neighborhoods.

Last year, more than 32,800 animals received shelter and care at the Hawaiian Humane Society. Adoption fees and other small charges cover some costs, but much of this work is only possible through donations from individuals, schools and businesses.

The Student Council at 'Aina Haina's Holy Nativity School had an excellent idea for raising money to donate to the Humane Society, and it all started with just a penny.

According to school head Bob Whiting, the classes challenged each other for one week last October. "The goal was for each class to raise the most pennies collected in jars in their classroom," he said. "Each penny counted for one cent, but each silver coin was subtracted from the contest total."

Students would put dimes, quarters and other silver into the jars of other classes. Only the copper pennies were counted to determine the winning class. The school's 5th grade donated the most pennies; the 6th grade raised the most money. When totaled, the piles of change added up to $520, which is enough to pay for 15 spay/neuter surgeries for animals being adopted.

Community donations also help pay for the development of school curriculum for all grade levels by the society. Humane-education staff provided materials, lectures and shelter experiences for the community. Last year, more than 9,700 children and 2,300 teachers and other adults were served by programs offered through the humane-education department.

ADOPTABLES

Tag No. 16419

If you are looking for a big, friendly feline with long hair, meet Mewtwo in Room 3 at the Cat House. She enjoys having her calico colored coat brushed and gives affection in return. Mewtwo is an adult indoor cat who would be happy as an only cat in a quiet home.

Tag No. 15737

Red wanted to get "up close and personal" with the camera. This 5-year-old pit bull mix has learned good manners using clicker training through the shelter animal behavior program. He is a quick study who needs treatment for heartworms.

MISC.

These particular animals may have found new homes. Please visit to see all the pets in person. The Hawaiian Humane Society & McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open Monday-Friday noon to 8 p.m., weekends 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The incoming animals area is open daily 24 hours a day. If you've lost or found an animal, call the Humane Society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285. The Web site address is www.hawaiianhumane.org.