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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted on: Sunday, February 27, 2005

ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Needy animals get temporary homes

Hawaiian Humane Society

The Hawaiian Humane Society seeks foster-care volunteers who will temporarily open their home to animals in need.

Young animals that need foster care, such as this puppy, are nourished every few hours with formula from a bottle just like human babies are.

Hawaiian Humane Society

"Whether it is puppies, kittens, older animals or even birds, fostering is great way to make a difference in the lives of animals," said Kelli Nitahara, outreach programs coordinator. "There are a variety of reasons why we foster including age of the animals, lack of shelter space or the animal's temporary illness or injury. Caring people in the community can help by serving as foster guardians."

Volunteer Colleen Arii received the society's Helen Kinau Wilder Friendship Award in 2004 for helping dogs that need specialized, long-term care.

Arii believes her foster-care work is a "calling" and can spend up to several months rehabilitating just one dog. Doesn't she find it difficult to give them back?

"Oh yes, it's tough," said Arii, "but it makes way for another dog that needs care. I enjoy giving them a second chance at a good life."

While Arii takes on the society's neediest dogs, there are a variety of short-term opportunities for those interested in temporarily opening their homes to animals.

Kittens and puppies that are not yet old enough for adoption enjoy a home stay with foster families that lasts about two weeks.

The Hawaiian Humane Society also fosters people's pets through its Pals Program. Pals provides trained volunteers to assist with short-term pet care for owners who are elderly, temporarily hospitalized, disabled or victims of domestic violence (while they seek a safe place to live).

Volunteers must be at least 18. Length of foster care can vary. The society provides training, pet supplies and health care. To find out more about foster care, call 946-2187, ext. 216, or apply online.

See www.hawaiianhumane.org and click on Volunteer.

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ADOPTABLES

Beau

Tag No. 55867. He's all dressed up with no place to go. Take 3-year-old Beau home today! You'll recognize him immediately. Look for those gorgeous green eyes, striking white whiskers and stunning black-and-white tuxedo coat.



Joey

Tag No. 54196. Our friendly Lab mix is wearing a black-and-white coat too. Joey is 6 years old and qualifies for the Seniors for Seniors program. Already neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations, Joey can go to his new home today.



These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open 7 days a week. For hours and to see more pets available for adoption, see www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals.