During the COVID-19 pandemic, animal shelters in Hawaii experienced an immediate and severe disruption in operations. Tourism halted, commercial flights were suspended, and the regular flow of pet transports to the mainland stopped almost entirely. With limited local adoptions and rising intake numbers, shelters quickly became overwhelmed.
The situation highlighted how essential transport is for shelters in geographically isolated communities. When standard systems broke down, it was clear that a coordinated, large-scale response was needed.
In response, Greater Good Charities led an unprecedented effort: a single-day operation that relocated nearly 600 dogs and cats from six Hawaiian islands to receiving shelters across the Pacific Northwest. This became the largest pet rescue flight ever completed.
Pets were flown from shelters in Kauai, Maui, Lanai, Oahu, and Hawaii Island to Seattle, where they were welcomed by a network of trusted partner shelters. Most animals were placed into adoptive homes within days of arrival.
Each rescue flight requires precise coordination and deep collaboration. Animals are assessed and prepared by veterinary teams before departure. On arrival, receiving shelters provide continued care, enrichment, and adoption placement.
Expert partners contributed to every stage:
These flights aren't simply about moving pets—they’re designed to set animals up for long-term success.
Rescue flights serve as an essential tool in addressing pet overpopulation and uneven shelter capacity across regions. By transporting animals from overburdened shelters to communities ready to adopt, they relieve pressure and create room for other at-risk pets.
This model also strengthens shelter networks, builds long-term capacity, and fosters shared standards in animal care and transport safety.
The success of each flight depends on a coordinated network of frontline shelter staff, transport professionals, veterinary teams, and donors.
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Hawaiian shelter partners included:
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Mainland receiving shelters included:
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With the support of local emergency management and veterinary leadership, the operation maintained the highest standards of safety and animal welfare.
Relocating pets through air transport is more than a logistical operation—it’s an expression of commitment to equity in animal welfare. Every pet deserves a chance, regardless of where they are born or the limits of a local shelter.
Rescue flights help ensure that pets in under-resourced communities are not left behind. They reduce euthanasia, increase adoption opportunities, and give shelters breathing room to better serve their local communities.