Hawaiʻi County will assume the responsibility of animal control on July 1. The contract currently held by the Hawaiʻi Rainbow Rangers expires today, June 30, and will not be extended. As part of the transition, a temporary moratorium of animal intake is in place, and services are limited to the care of the animals currently in the facilities. There are no plans for mass euthanasia, as we seek to find permanent homes for the existing animals. Until further notice, concerned residents are asked to contact the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s non- emergency line at (808) 935-3311.
Any additional non-profits or other groups willing to assist with the intake and adoption of animals during the transition may contact the Hawaiʻi Police Department and provide their information at hpdanimalcontrol@hawaiicounty.gov.
“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 4-legged friends,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “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.”
The County of Hawaiʻi would like to thank our residents in advance for their patience as we begin this transition. Further updates will be made available on this matter upon completion of our current assessment.