Ever since I was born I’ve been surrounded by dogs. They’re still by far my most favourite animals in the world and therefore I was longing to have one for quite some time. Back in my homeland taking care of a dog was simply impossible due to work and lack of space. But once in Costa Rica I was finally able to cross it off the bucket list.
Though I’d probably wouldn’t have considered it in Holland, I adopted one from the streets in here. The reason is simple. For almost every drive that lasts longer then an hour I see one dog lying dead next to the road. Incredibly sad and therefore it didn’t make sense to buy a dog – in fact it would be a shame considering this enormous amount of poor fellows that are walking around the streets and eating garbage.
Don’t think that’s just Central-America. National Geographic recently estimated there are a billion dogs, and 3/4 of those are strays – worldwide. A confronting notion.
So, what does this all have to do with Hawaii, I hear you saying! Well, while on Kauai I was very pleased to hear about a great initiative. The local shelter, The Kauai Humane Society, initiated a programme to ease the time of their dogs – until they get adopted – in here: you can take one (or two) out for a hike in the mountains or on the beach. Really a win-win for both! They get a great day and are able to get used to people and you will receive a bundle of joy for a day!
Of course you can adopt them straight afterwards too, the shelter even helps you out with the process of shipping your dog to another state. At the entrance of the building you’ll encounter an enormous map of the USA with all the places pinpointed where their dogs were sent to.
After the ‘check-in’ at the desk we were directed towards the place where the dogs are residing. It’s actually really tough to decide which dog you want to take for the day, since most of them are super excited when they see a new face walking by. They just know this could be their chance to get out for the day.
Every dog cage stars a paper with the name of the dog, its (estimated) age and its characteristics. We figured out we could take along two, and therefore we opted for Jordan – a senior beagle mix – and Patricia – a dalmatiër mix -, which were quite calm and were staying together in one shelter.
After a first introduction to them on a grassy area next to the shelter, the staff provided us with food, treats and bowls and a jacket for the both of them. Next we were finally ready to go: so long shelter, time for some adventure it is!
The dogs seemed very used to driving around and quickly calmed down after their initial excitement. We decided to go for a walk on the Sleeping Giant, one of the recommended hikes quite close to Wailua. After a break near the gorgeous Opaeka’a Falls, we unfortunately discovered the road was rather muddy. But the dogs didn’t seem to care and it was mostly us that had a tough time getting up. Although we didn’t get all the way to the top, but could enjoy some lovely views on the island from above and a bit of exercise for all. Luckily the shelter gave some towels too, so the car survived was able to sustain the muddy dogs pretty fine too on the way back.
While returning the dogs to the shelter we were able to look back on a pretty awesome day. So all I can say is, if you’re looking for a special experience in Hawaii, this will be your shot of happiness for sure. I sincerely hope more shelter throughout the world will launch such a similar initiative!
