The disastrous wildfires that broke out in Hawaii caused unbearable damage to the people of the town, Lahaina, Maui Island.
The disaster affected many people who needed to escape their homes for safety, leaving everything behind – even their pets. Unfortunately, hundreds of people were confirmed missing and the numbers are still piling up.
Roman, the Pittie, was one of the dogs affected. He was in doggy daycare when this atrocious wildfire broke out, but due to the complicity of the situation, his sitter lost track of him in the chaos.
Roman Was Lost In The Chaos
Roman’s sitter, Andreza, took care of Roman and several other of his siblings when the fire started in Lahaina, Hawaii, in early August 2023.
Andreza’s only option was to jump into the water with the dogs, but somehow, Roman got scared and ran away. Instead of being with the rest of the pack, he fearfully ran down Front Street.
The quest for Roman took two days, but eventually, he was found by the Goodfellow Bros staff, who then successfully handed him over to a good samaritan. From there – he was taken to Maui Humane Society.
The Good People Of MHS Stepped In
The MHS team immediately subjected Roman to a vet exam, where he was diagnosed with burns on his paws, back, body, and legs.
This poor Pittie did his best to escape the fire, and his fur was partially scorched from all the flames. Once he got to the facility, he smelled like smoke, but the important thing was that he was finally on safe ground.
He was given initial medical care, and he responded quite well, even though he was still pretty shocked and traumatized.
The team soon learned some great news – Roman was microchipped – and his pawrents were successfully contacted!
“He was picked up at MHS an hour ago with some burn injuries, but overall doing well. THANK YOU to all of those who shared, prayed and offered support. Miracles do happen,” Nicole, Roman’s owner, wrote on her Facebook.
Nicole Comey, Roman’s owner, was very relieved when she heard that her pup was safe. After a horrific couple of days, she was finally able to see her doggo and give him the most emotional hug!
Finally Reunited With His Owners
Even though his burns were not harmless, Roman is building towards a full recovery! His paws and his back are still healing, but his family makes sure he’s taken care of well!
“We were off island during this tragedy and we cannot be more grateful for how this community has and continues to step up,” Comey wrote on her official Instagram.
Unfortunately, there are many more people and pets to be saved in Lahaina these days. In the wake of this tragedy, there will probably be many more stories like this one.
If you’re considering ways of helping – you can make a small contribution to the Maui Humane Society Fire Relief Fund and help other animals in need.
Our hearts are with the people and animals of Maui, and with all those working to control these fires!