Dedicated to caring for and finding loving forever homes for companion animals in need for some 60 years, the non-profit Hawaiʻi Island Humane Society (HIHS) has locations in Kona (the 12-acre HIHS Animal Community Center in Holualoa) and Keaau, serving the island’s east side.
The Holualoa center opened in August 2021, and since then it has been lauded as one of the nation’s most progressive, colorful and happy animal care facilities where the wellbeing and comfort of each individual animal is the number one priority, according to Lauren Nickerson, HIHS CEO.
“Everything we do is geared toward getting to know each animal as best we can,” Lauren says.
Among the stand-out programs that align with that goal, she says, is Field Trips for Shelter Dogs, which was introduced in 2015. Island visitors and residents are offered the opportunity to take a dog out for a day of fun and adventure, exploring dog-friendly beaches, restaurants and parks.
“We learn so much more about the dog through the information day trippers share with us about their experience. For example, how was the dog while riding in the car, walking on a leash, were they curious about new surroundings, or a bit shy, were they friendly with adults and children who asked to approach them, or timid,” she says.
And while the program certainly helps dogs meet potential adopters (feel-good stories include a three-legged dog adopted by visitors from the Netherlands) when they are out and about, adoption is not the primary goal, according to Lauren.
“Most of all, Field Days gives dogs much-needed shelter breaks. Research from the nationally recognized 'Maddie’s Fund' shows that even just a few hours out of the shelter promotes relaxation, reduces stress and improves dogs’ behaviors,” she says. “And what better way is there to get your doggy ‘fix’ than spending a day in paradise with them?”
Established by the Duffield family, 'Maddie’s Fund' is administered out of California and honors their beloved Miniature Schnauzer, Maddie. They made a promise to her: If they ever had enough money, they would use it to help companion animals and the people who love them. They made good on that promise in 1994 by creating their family foundation. Since then, the fund has gifted more than $287 million in grants to animal welfare organizations across the country, including many generous donations to HIHS over the years.
“These grants, along with donations from caring individuals in our local community, help fund supplies for Field Days for Shelter Dogs and additional services and programs we provide,” Lauren says.
Field Days are offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays by advance appointment only at both locations. A donation is requested from those interested in participating, with fees set at $35 for non-resident families or groups, and $15 for kama’aina (local resident) families or groups. A Loyal Field Trippers is also available to kama’aina who have completed at least one field trip and want to come back for more, Lauren says. There is no fee to participate again, and these loyal day trippers also have exclusive access to special pick-up times. All dogs must be returned no later than 4:30 PM.
“It's always heartwarming to hear from day trippers about being surprised to see how happy the dogs are returning to the shelter. They know they are coming back to a safe, secure place and it lets us know we are doing our very best with the dogs in our care,” Lauren says.
Dogs selected for the program have been evaluated and approved by HIHS Canine Enrichment Coordinators, who also conduct guidelines and safety briefings with participants prior to providing them with supplies and gear for the day. Backpacks are branded with the words: “We are on a field trip. You can adopt this dog. It’s ok to be excited!” The backpack contains a water bottle for the dog, a towel, toys, treats, poop bags, a dog seat belt, safety handouts and information about adopting. The dog is outfitted with an “Adopt Me” bandana, harness, collar and leash.
In 2016, just one year after the Field Days program’s introduction, HIHS was awarded the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce Kuala Award for Business Innovation. Since then, it has become a model and educational resource for animal welfare and sheltering professionals nationwide who are interested in developing their own field day programs.
Aloha and mahalo to the team at HIHS for all they do daily to enhance our island community’s animals—and our lives as well. HIHS.org.
Field Days are offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays by advance appointment...
Field Days gives dogs much-needed shelter breaks.