The historic Lahaina banyan tree is still alive according to experts at the Lahaina Restoration Foundation, and although Pet Rescue Report is dedicated to saving the lives of our animal friends, it just seems right to send our care and concern for one of the oldest trees in Hawai’i also.
Of course, we have been asking for help for the Maui Humane Society, who have cared for more than 60 animals as of Thursday and have also managed to reunite eight of the pets with their families.
More than 130 shelter pets have boarded an emergency flight from Maui after the open admission animal shelter was overcrowded and called out an emergency rescue plan as part of the Clear the Shelters campaign.
All animals arrived to the mainland safe and sound, with shelters ready to welcome them with open arms and to adopt them out to loving families. Everyone sends a huge mahalo to Greater Good Charities, Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, Oregon Humane Society and Southwest Airlines for coming together to help Maui’s animals and Ohana’s.
It was just days ago that a donated plane flew to Maui filled with necessities for humans and for pets. The non profit Greater Good Charities worked with Southwest Airlines and Lucky Dog Animal Rescue in Portland, Oregon to transport 33 dogs and 103 cats to rescue organizations. The pets will soon be available for adoption through the Oregon Humane Society and their associated rescues.
It is estimated that are 3,000 pets still missing. Staff and volunteers have been helping hundreds of animals in the field and providing water for livestock to treating animals for burns. There have been reports of live pets – dogs and cats – hiding and some have severe burns.
And as to the banyan tree, it was planted on April 24,1873 by William Owen Smith, the sheriff of the town at that time, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Protestant mission. The tree only stood eight-feet tall. It gradually grew to over 60 feet high and has 46 major trunks.
Optimistic reports state the tree did survive the disastrous fire, and arborists are doing everything they can. Currently the tree is being watered daily using water trucks. Fortunately, the soil underneath the top layer was not burned, workers have been adding an additional two-inch layer of compost around the tree to add to the nutrients. In addition the soil will be aerated, signs and fencing will protect the tree and a blessing will be performed.
Thus far the tree has yet to “wake up” and show signs of recovery. Only time and expert care will tell the tree’s story in the future.
Maui residents with missing pets are urged to file a report by calling 808.877.3680 or through the shelter’s website. The Maui Humane Society has set up a Facebook Fundraiser. The public can also donate on the humane society’s website.
Read previous rescue information about helping here.
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