‘Enough is enough,’ community rallies for animal cruelty

Community rallies in Nanakuli to address animal cruelty issue on Jan. 20, 2024. Courtesy: Chantell M. Moniz

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Animal lovers around the island of Oahu joined together on Saturday to rally against animal cruelty cases.

Community members met in Nanakuli at the intersection of Haleakala and Farrington Highway from noon to 2 p.m. to spread awareness about the issue.

“We are trying to work on enforcing the laws or changing the laws,” expressed Hina’s Legacy Rescue Foundation’s Chantell Moniz. “We’ve tried to contact legislation, hopefully one day we’ll be able to get in there too.”

Activists said the rally formed after a brown dog, Noah, was found under a bridge on Kuwale Street in Waianae last July. Reports said the dog had a strap tied to its leg that was attached to a post on the bridge.

The incident was reported to Honolulu Police Department where they later classified the action as first-degree animal cruelty.

Since then, several other incidents were reported. A Kaneohe dog named Chevy was found dead after suffering multiple puncture wounds and bruises in his own kennel.

Multiple incidents regarding individuals shooting animals with BB guns were also reported. One report said a pregnant cat was shot multiple times and had to later be euthanized.

“Where do we draw the line and say enough is enough,” said Moniz. “Everyone is so quick to euthanize an animal due to the shortcomings of the owner in cases where a dog hurts a human. Our justice systems fails these animals over and over again.”