The 2018 Kilauea eruption sparked a desire among residents to learn how to rescue pets and livestock during disasters. After years of planning, the first-ever Disaster Response Training: Animal Search and Rescue took place, hosted by Hawaii Animal Kuleana Alliance and Code 3 Associates. HAKA, founded by Syndi Texeira, has raised funds and acquired equipment for rescuing large animals.

The training included a mix of volunteers, firefighters, ranchers, and animal service responders, all committed to animal rescue. Lessons focused on effective preparedness, communication, and keeping animals and their people calm during emergencies. The training also emphasized the importance of the human-animal bond in natural disasters.

Participants learned techniques for moving large animals, such as livestock, and practiced securing loose horses. The training also covered the importance of having an evacuation plan with go-bags for both humans and animals. Code 3 Associates stressed the importance of not self-deploying during disasters and the need for proper training to ensure successful rescues.