Island Dog Magazine Summer 2024

VETERINARY EMERGENCY

+ REFERR A L CENT E R

• Veterinar y emergency ser vices 24/7/365

•

• Emergency & Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Oncology, Physical Rehabilitation, Radiology, and Surger y all in one facilit y

• Advanced diagnostic tools including CT, MRI and Ultrasound

• Compassionate approach to medicine

Referral Center (VERC)

r y Emergency + f al Veterinar y Emergency + Referral Center (VERC)

veterinar y and specialty hospital. With our advanced veterinar y diagnostic and treatment center, we offer the most comprehensive and progressive patient care available in Hawaii.

Together our team works to ensure that patients receive the best care and follow-up treatment possible by maintaining communication with your referring veterinarian. FOL LOW O UR FACEBO O K PAGE

T O U R ER AN D CRITI C A L C ARE T EA M

Kendall Bourke, DVM

Emergency Veterinarian

Will Coleman, DVM Emergency

Sara Crispell, DVM

Andrew Cruikshank

Stacy Kim, DVM

Emergency Veterinarian

Maxine Koyanagi, DVM

Emergency Veterinarian

Heather Luce, DVM Emergency Veterinarian

Tarin Ortiz, DVM Emergency Veterinarian

Wellness Exams • Vaccines • Ultrasounds

Acupuncture • Eastern Medicine

Exotics • Cold Laser • Cardiology

PennHIP Certified • Shockwave Therapy

Real Time Pathology

With over 100 years of combined experience

Eric Ako DVM

Kirsten Jensen BVMS

Ann Sakamoto DVM

Jordan Bader DVM

John Kaya DVM

Leianne Lee Loy DVM

Jessie Krause DVM

Hawaii Veterinary Vision Care

Ophthalmic

Ophthalmic

Our advanced solar batteries seamlessly integrate with your solar panels, capturing and storing excess energy during the day for use at night or during outages.

Keep the lights on during blackouts. The utility grid is aging, expensive, and susceptible to extreme weather, and a home battery backs you up with reliable solar energy.

Stay protected from potential increases in energy costs or surge pricing. Fulfill your energy needs today and support your growing needs when you add electric vehicles or your family grows.

Chelsea Borrowdale

ISLAND DOG MAGAZINE

Publishers

John B. Harmon III

Carol R. Harmon

Editor

John Harmon

Design

Carol Harmon

Cover Photo Electric Wave Printing Journal Graphics

Island Dog Magazine is published quarterly in February, May, August and November and distributed on Oahu at select pet stores, veterinary clinics, and other retail establishments including: Safeway: Beretania

Longs: Kahala, Kapolei, Pearlridge Times Supermarket: Aiea, Kahala, Kaimuki, Kalihi, King Street, Liliha, Mililani Windward Mall: Upstairs Hardware Hawaii: Kailua Don Quijote: Waipahu

ISLAND DOG MAGAZINE

©2024 by John & Carol Harmon. All rights reserved. Island Dog Magazine and John and Carol Harmon do not endorse nor assume financial responsibility for products or services advertised or featured. No part of this magazine may be reprinted or reproduced without the written consent of the publishers.

P.O. Box 1021 Kailua, Hawaii 96734

Ph. 808-254-2992 dakine@islanddogmagazine.com www.islanddogmagazine.com

Aloha! `

Summertime is simply divine, when you share it with your canine. And boy, are we ready! It starts with our Cover Boy Jack, who is the furry-faced ambassador of fun at Hawaii’s favorite dog-friendly hotel, The Surfjack. It was probably named after him!

Next we delight in the delicious doggos that you, dear readers, have deigned to deliver: Six (6!) whole pages of your precious pups fill our Da Kine Canine Gallery! And ecstatic are we that you have also proffered a kaleidoscope of images of your own bad selves luxuriating in the reflected glow of your luminous 4LBFFs in Pups & Peeps. Warning: you will need shades! Alas, there’s no special gallery in Fab Fall, but you can get a leg up by sending pics for our Howlidaze edition of All Dressed Up.

We witnessed Tokyo’s astounding Interpets pet expo firsthand and have photos to share and stories to tell. We also report on the relationship of the Hawai‘i Wiener Derby and its sister non-profit Dachshund Rescue & Support of Hawai‘i.

Our Gifts and Sniffs for Summer have a decided whiff of beach and the outdoors, and we help degenerate the dangers of Mr. Sun’s heat with a summation of useful tactics and goods. And we celebrate the passing of three revered and regaled elder Surfurs who helped make the Duke Kahanamoku Oceanfest such furry fun. They will not be forgotten!

All this, plus resident artist John Pritchett tendering his take on the timeless Watch Dog, makes for the munificent melange that is our Summer Fun issue. We’re glad you’re here for it!

As always, we are indebted to you for the kindness of your attention to our little dog rag in this most digital of ages, and for offering support to our beloved advertisers. Tell ’em we sent you. Mahalo!

— John & Carol

Leilani’s first day at the beach

GENESIS DIZON

Jack

THE HOTEL DOG

JACK THE HOTEL DOG was born on October 26, 2020, and is a 3 year old French/English Bulldog. In November when he was 5 weeks old his Mommy Lyn, the General Manager of the Surfjack Hotel, and his Daddy Bulla first set their eyes on Jack the newborn pup! He became the first employee with fur in December 2020, a much needed Christmas blessing for Surfjack!

Now his daily walks around the iconic “Wish You Were Here” hotel pool are exciting as he meets guests and friends-

especially the little kids in the pool that Jack loves giving kisses to!

With his message of “Any dog, any size, and never a dog fee,” Jack has become a hotel dog sensation as people come from all over the world to meet him: He has his own Instagram and Facebook page. Island Dog Magazine has showcased the Surfjack, Jack, and our being the best dog-friendly hotel. In 2023 his picture and story appeared in a USA Today article gaining millions of impressions titled, “Gone To The Dogs!” featuring hotels with canine ambassadors. At a “Women in Lodging” event, the ladies kept asking, “Where’s Jack?” “How’s Jack?” and guests checking into the hotel always want to meet him.

Jack looks forward to meeting and hanging out with you and your pup while you enjoy a staycation or meal on the pool deck at Mahina & Sun’s. A hui hou!

— Lynette Eastman

Baby Jack in 2020, and with Pawrents, Bulla and Lyn celebrating Jack’s first Surfjack Christmas.

O‘ahu’s Off-Leash Dog Parks

‘A‘ala Dog Park

At ‘A‘ala Park

Separate areas for small and large dogs

Open Daily 6am – 9pm

Ala Wai Dog Park

Near Ala Wai Elementary

Open daily – daylight hours

Closed Tuesday morning for maintenance

Bark Park

Diamond Head Rd & 18th Ave.

Open Daily – daylight hours

Hawai‘i Kai Dog Park

Makai end of Hawai‘i Kai

Park & Ride on Keahole St.

Open daily – daylight hours

Closed Tuesday 7am - Noon for maintenance

Kaka‘ako Dog Park

At Mother Waldron

Neighborhood Park on Pohukaina Street

Open Daily 5am – 10 pm or as noted on signs.

Mililani Dog Park

Mililani Mauka District Park at the Park & Ride 95-1069 Ukuwai Street

Open Daily – daylight hours

Closed Wednesday mornings for maintenance

Mo - ‘ili‘ili Dog Park

Kalo Place Mini Park

Separate areas for small and large dogs

Open Daily 5am – 10 pm

Closed Tuesday 7am – noon for maintenance

Moanalua Dog Park

Moanalua Community Park

Open Daily – daylight hours

Closed Tuesday mornings for maintenance

Waipahu Dog Park

At the Patsy Mink Central O‘ahu Regional Park, makai-end near Paiwa St.

Open Daily 7am – 7pm

Closed Wednesday mornings for maintenance

OPENING SOON!

Kahua O Waikalua Dog Park

Near Bay View Golf in Kaneohe

To maintain a clean and safe environment, all dog parks require that users pick up after their dogs. Please kokua—bring your own doggie waste bags and dispose of them properly.

photo gallery da kine canine

Loving Memory Mimi, Zeke & Manu

Coco

Pepe, Icy and Roxy

Lilo

Ehu

Toby Morifuji

Miso

In Loving Memory

Tami

❤ In Loving Memory

Chibi

Koa-Maximus

Kanaka

Baby

Biscuit S’more

Woody Gunner

Breezy

Taz Angel Zeus

❤ In Loving Memory Blue

In Loving Memory Maui

Scumie - Mr. Aloha

Kenai

Bosco

Mr. Bizness

Dozer

Majesty

Luca

Remington

Daisy

❤ In Loving Memory

Max

❤ In Loving Memory

Dilla Donut

❤ In Loving Memory

Shylo

Ava

Tbone

Mili

Prince & Layla

Morocco

Chewie

Archie Kobe, Bunny & Lulu

Rollie

100% Locally Made All Natural, Single Ingredient Dog Treats

• No Additives or Preservatives

• Beef, Chicken, Pork, Ahi and more!

Check out our new location !

Open Mon-Fri 10am-1pm

@belly_rub_kitchen @bellyrubkitchen

Stop by every 3rd Saturday of the month at Koko Marina Shopping Center

Make Decisions with Confidence

Carolyn Naun DVM, CHPV Certified Hospice & Palliative Care Veterinarian

120 Sand Island Access Rd. Unit 4

Every pet deserves peace, comfort and dignity in their final stage of life

Your pets are family and as they age, you want them happy and comfortable for as long as possible. You need the right information to make the best choices. Get your FREE Senior Pet Toolkit today at: armsofaloha.com/senior-toolkit

• Ten things you need to know about senior pet care

• Safety checklist and tips for senior pets

• When are diagnostic tests worth it?

• Nine questions to ask your vet about euthanasia

• Seven questions to ask your vet about cremation Ph. 808-435-3006

Today I cut my dog’s hair, and took it for a walk.

Lilo

Fez

Bella

Lucifer Mahina

Mimi - Then & Now

Tank

Konyo & Toby

Kenzo

Misha

Romeo Bandit

❤ In Loving Memory

Ms. Pole Bendah

Cooper

Lani

Hana

Miso

Nohelani

Brady Leilani

Remy & Russell

Mossa & Ahi

In Loving Memory Ihu Sato

In Loving Memory Coco

Board & Train Gone Bad

NAME: “Groot” 2-Year old Exotic Bully

SYMPTOMS: Groot’s owners called us in because they were living in fear of their dog! They would feed him then run to hide in the bedroom for hours afterward in fear that he’d attack them guarding his food bowl. Any time taking off or putting on his collar he’d bite and attack his owners, as well as any time they would put him in his crate or take him out. They couldn’t even pet him without fearing they might touch the wrong spot and trigger an attack!

DIAGNOSIS: Understanding a dog’s history is crucial when addressing aggression; Groot had been to a Board & Train Program where they utilized prong collars and punishment-based methods in an attempt to train the dogs. The owners were told to yank and snap the prong collar as hard as they could any time Groot would show signs of aggression, and to throw him in his crate if he continued. This created a major fear-based aggression where Groot didn’t trust people, and saw humans as a threat and something to defend against at all costs. He associated any hands near his head or neck as a predication of pain to come with the prong collar, and people coming near him or his food as a threat, attempting to take his food away.

SOLUTION: With a clear understanding of his history, we came to the realization that Groot’s aggression was due to a loss of trust and a poisoned relationship with people. Thus we began the journey of rebuilding his trust. The first thing we did was get rid of that Prong Collar. We then started giving him lots of space. We removed his food bowl completely and began scatter-feeding him in his crate, giving him the ability to eat his meal in his crate without feeling like someone was going to take his bowl away, and attaching positive associations with his

crate. Then the owners began to hand feed him. They were able to reward him with treats when putting on or removing his flat collar, resulting in him loving pets and affection to his head and neck (no more pain associated with touching his neck). Very quickly Groot rebuilt his trust in his owners and reverted to the loving, sweet, and happy go lucky dog they once knew him to be!

Aggression is always complex, but that’s why we specialize in it. We love digging deep to discover the cause of your dog’s behavior and help teach you how to best train them! We work with all behavior problems as well as basic training and obedience.

Please reach out to us for a consultation and evaluation at (808) 229-4778.

Learning never stops, and there’s no such thing as a “Bad Dog.”

interpets

ASIA PACIFIC APRIL 4-7, 2024 Just a corner of the event.

A sprawling extravaganza celebrating all things furry, feathered and scaly and the humans who love them.

BY JOHN & CAROL HARMON, ISLAND DOG MAGAZINE

A lineup of the ubiquitous pet strollers with highly visible nameplates on front.

We dared to experience Interpets’ 8-hall domain in Tokyo Big Sight to see the latest interesting, fun, often opulent, and always very Japanese goods and services extolled by over 700 vendors. From designer pet clothing and stylish accessories to gourmet treats and spa services, vendors showcased an impressive array of indulgent offerings designed to cater to the discerning tastes of modern pet parents. There were even pet

restrooms! Not so private, mind you, but very well attended.

The exhibitors were organized by Fashion & Accessories, Healthcare & Beauty, Home, Veterinary & Ceremonial, Outing, Food & Snacks, and finally, Cats & Birds & Small Animals & Aquarium. Our favorite, of course, was Food & Snacks, and we certainly were not alone—it was mobbed. Plus, there was no way we were going to sneak a new stroller or dog cooling

ISTOCKPHOTO

Tokyo Big Sight in Odaiba is Japan’s largest convention center

Mimi Shell, Milk & Syrup

pod into the overhead bin on our plane back to Honolulu.

And there was more, much more! A dazzling pet fashion show, featuring couture outfits and accessories, wowed audiences with its creativity and flair, while agility competitions put the skills of canine athletes to the test. Through its advocacy efforts and partnerships with animal welfare organizations who were at the show, the event raised awareness about the importance of adoption, spaying and neutering, and the humane treatment of animals.

It was a bit overwhelming with over 67,000 attending, but uniquely maneuverable thanks to the local

sense of decorum and planning. Now behold as we bring you, without commercial interruption, the wonder, the glory, the artistry that is Interpets!

Interpets started in 2011 as a lifestyle pet event and enjoys continued growth. The event is organized by the Japan Pet Food Association/Japan Pet Products Manufacturers Association and Messe Frankfurt, Japan Ltd.

Interpets 2025

International Fair for a Better Life with Pets

April 3-6. 2025* • Tokyo Big Sight *open to the public April 4-6

Choked outdoor walkway between halls.

A nice touch: Lots of special spaces to shoot your dog for premium postings.

So many shears, so little fur.

Dog

Honda Dog

Haute House fine furniture

Disaster Preparedness

Plan Ahead for Your Pet’s Safety

Hurricane season runs from June through the end of November. In the event of evacuation for a hurricane, tsunami, or other disaster, residents and pets should come prepared with a pet disaster preparedness kit. Shelters do not stock supplies.

What to Bring to an Emergency Shelter

• Pet crate/carrier large enough for your pet to stand and turn around.

• 14 day supply of food and water plus bowls

• Medication/Pet First Aid Kit and veterinary information and records

• Identification ID tag on a collar, microchipping and current photo. Microchip should be up-to-date with current contact information.

• Collar and leash/harness

• A comforting toy, bedding, treats and towel

• Cat litter in containers and litter pan

• Hygiene, grooming and sanitation supplies

Don’t leave your pets behind! If you don’t feel safe in your home, neither will your pet. If evacuation is not necessary and you can shelter in place, the family pet should be kept inside away from wind, noise and breaking glass and/or in a crate.

Oahu’s Pet-Friendly Shelters

According to the Department of Emergency Management, City & County of Honolulu, all Oahu evacuation shelters are considered pet-friendly. Monitor local media and official social media sites for specifics and updates. Based on the type of disaster and other circumstances, some shelters may be closed and other facilities may be enlisted. So stay informed.

View the City & County of Honolulu’s map of Oahu hurricane refuge areas at: https://www.honolulugis.org/apps (Public Safety/Oahu Hurricane Refuge Areas Public Viewer)

Ween’sWorld

BY CAROL HARMON | PHOTOS BY MADISON JENSEN/CANINE AVENUE

World

Hawaii dachshund lovers come together once a year for some fun and competition in the Hawai‘i Wiener Derby. The 2023 Derby took place on October 28 at Kapiolani Park Bandstand in collaboration with the Hawaiian Humane Society Pet Walk. 176 weens competed for the Top Dog spot. Divisions included adult, puppy, senior, handicap and hapa (mix), each with their own Top Dog winner. Proceeds from the event benefited Dachshund Rescue and Support of Hawai‘i (DRSH), a 501c3 nonprofit.

In the Beginning

In 2008, two dachshund owners were sitting at their makeshift dog area at Ala Wai Park (before the doggy park there became a thing) in the baseball field and one said to the other, “So where’s the dachshund races on the island?” The other said, “There isn’t one!” And that is where it all started.

They organized a team and secured a place at the Hawaiian Humane Society’s Doggy Game Day at Thomas Square. The first year there were 75 dogs and lots of spectators.

By 2014, the number of dachshunds racing grew to 200 with vendors, photographers, television and media.

After a seven year hiatus, the Derby returned by popular demand in 2022 with over 300 people at Kualoa Ranch.

2024 Ween Runs

While this year’s derby is still being planned, the weens are staying in shape. On March 22, they did a halftime run at the University of Hawai‘i men’s volleyball game, and a crowd-pleasing run on Sunday, May 5, at the Hawaii Pet Expo in the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.

Dachshund Rescue and Support

Hawai‘i is an active and devoted group of dachshund lovers. When they aren’t busy with derby doings, DRSH helps the local dachshund community find forever homes for rescues and rehomes.

The nonprofit group also provides information and support by educating potential dachshund owners so they know what they’re getting into with this smart, strong-willed and charming breed.

In areas of behavior and health, DRSH offers fear aggression scholarships. Dachshunds who have been either treated as lap dogs or abused and traumatized can develop fear aggression. They will help provide training for them and hope they can be saved.

Dachshunds are prone to back injury and a hereditary condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). IVDD scholarships can help a dachshund get their surgery and wheels. They work with veterinarians and rescues across the islands to care for the ween ohana.

DRSH also supports veterans through companionship of their beloved, fearless dachshund community.

Get the latest details about this year’s derby or help DRSH support Island dachshunds with a donation: www.hawaiiwienerderby.com

Pups & Peeps

Mommy & Joey

Mochi, Aria & Olivia

Mochi & Lucky, Cherylin, Angel & Phoenix Lee

Leatrice & Woody

Davanelle & Gronk

Daisy and Maile

Jiggae & Mai Isabella & Jinro

Gracie & Auntie

Mickey Mouse & Gwen

Molly & Kea

BFFs Zipper & Dan

Audrey & Blue

Justin, Tiara & Sancha

Lower Risk of Cancer & Increase Lifespan up to 5 years

Spaying female dogs and cats eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the incidence of breast cancer. Neutering male dogs and cats reduces the incidence of prostate cancer.

Decrease Overpopulation

Every year, unplanned and unwanted litters create millions of homeless pets. Spaying and neutering gets to the root of the overpopulation problem as it prevents the birth of unwanted pets.

Intact males will do just about anything to find a mate, including finding ways to escape from the house. They are more likely to mark their territory by spraying strongsmelling urine all over the house too. Some aggression problems may be avoided by early neutering as well.

Spaying and neutering early is safe and easy.

Other staggering statistics:

• Females who have gone through their first heat are 16x more likely to develop breast cancers

• Cats can go into heat and get pregnant by 4 months and dogs by 5 months

• 7-8 million animals enter overcrowded shelters every year. Euthanasia kills more companion animals than any other disease. Approximately 4 million are put to sleep each year.

This situation is compounded each year by our tropical climate, which promotes year-round breeding. Two unaltered dogs, and their offspring, can produce about 67,000 puppies in six years. Two unaltered cats can produce 160,000 offspring. These numbers translate to more than 30,000 homeless animals and millions of feral cats on Oahu each year. Every week animals are left at our shelter or tied to the fence and left behind. Some animals are simply left in the streets to fend for themselves.

GiftsSniffs SUMMER

Water Fun Critters

Ever-reliable Kong offers perfect toys for water-training and dock dogs. Try Shieldz Fish Float—a hi tech coating keeps ’em bobbing. Hefty enough for long distance throws.

Chew to Stay Cool

Pup Ice Lollies are solid packaged chews formulated to freeze at home. Genius! Your dog can enjoy a mess- and drip-free frozen treat that won’t stick to his tongue. Assorted flavors: Rocket, Fruity, Choccy and Waffle Cone. Koolau Pets at Windward Mall Kaneohe; 808-235-6477.

Or for a little bit of spin, try Belly Flops Lobster, a soft, yet durable squeaky toss toy. At Enchanted Lake Pet in Kailua; 808-262-2219.

Puzzle the Muzzle

Doggie quiet time can include an intriguing interactive treat puzzle. Engage your dog’s mind, nose and paws to unlock hidden treats. From Nina Ottoson by Outward Hound. Challenge, Casino and Twister models available at Paw Hana Supply in Aiea; 808-485-9663.

Pamper and Protect

Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax soothes and protects paws damaged by heat and rough surfaces. Conditions with Vitamin E and beeswax. Made with food-safe oils and waxes...okay for dogs to lick. Amazon.com.

Beat the Heat

A little shade is always nice on a hot summer day. Protect your dog from sun, rain and wind with this 4’x4’x3’ tent. Waterproof with UV protection. In assorted colors by Beimo. Amazon.com

Accessorize, Accessorize!

Reddy’s Partner in Crime Trucker Hat. Mesh side panels for airflow and adjustable strap. Matching hat for pet parent available. Update your warm weather wardrobe with this boho necklace by Youly. At Petco stores or online at petco.com.

engaged in the water with the Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Toy. Delightfully buoyant and made with durable memory foam and rubber. At the Pet Depot in Ewa Beach; 808-689-7387.

Boots Made for Walking

Paw protection for rough terrain or hot pavement. Arcadia Trail Year-Round All-Terrain Dog Boots provide traction grip, toggle cord and straps and reflective stitching. Exclusively at Petsmart stores or petsmart.com.

Surfurs Over the Rainbow Bridge

2023 was a tough year for fans and friends of the Going to the Dogs Surfur Competition at Duke’s OceanFest, as three great canine competitors passed away. But that’s what dogs do—they live shorter lives and so teach us how to deal with grief. And we know that the best way is to honor them here in the pages of Island Dog Magazine and celebrate their skills, accomplishments and unwavering love. They will not be forgotten.

Luna the World’s Oldest Surf Dog

18 years old

Passed away September 2023

Batman the Bulldog Winner of the 2023 Solo Surfur Competition

Passed away December 12, 2023

Roxi the Yorkie Winner of the 2017 and 2019 Surfur Competition

Passed away October 2023

PHOTOS COURTESY: GOING TO THE DOGS SURFUR COMPETITION/DUKE’S OCEANFEST

Roxi & Sophia Culhane

Luna & Alika Vaquer

hot Summer Safety

Picnics, family get-togethers, beach days, hikes, and long walks: Summer Reigns. But all that sunshine has its hazards, as well, especially for our dogs. While we carefully load ourselves with ultra-SPF sunscreen and wide brims, we need to take some pup precautions as well.

First, dogs do not sweat to regulate body temperature, so they don’t cool as efficiently as humans. They keep chill by panting, which rapidly expels humidity and heat by nose and mouth, and they lose heat externally through their paws, ears, and even tummies. But with temperatures rising into the nineties, watch for the dangers of heat exhaustion, damaged paw pads, dehydration, and sunburn.

Heat exhaustion occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels, typically above 103°F, due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate cooling mechanisms. Symptoms include rapid panting, drooling, lethargy, weakness, rapid heart rate, and even collapse. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke, a life-

threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. This is particularly concerning for breeds with thick coats or short snouts, such as Huskies, Bulldogs, and Pugs, as they are less efficient at dissipating heat and are therefore at a higher risk of overheating.

So be sure to provide ample shade and fresh water, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and never leave dogs unattended in parked

Provide ample shade and fresh water, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and never leave dogs unattended in parked cars.

cars, where temperatures can soar to deadly levels within minutes.

In addition to the threat of heat exhaustion, dogs in Hawaii also face hot ground surfaces during the summer months. Asphalt, sand, and other surfaces can reach scorching temperatures, posing a risk of burns to dogs’ sensitive paw pads. Whenever possible, opt for walks on grassy areas or shaded paths to minimize exposure to hot surfaces and consider using protective booties or paw wax to shield them from the heat.

Just like humans, dogs can become dehydrated when exposed to high

temperatures for extended periods without adequate hydration. Signs include excessive panting, dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Ensure that dogs have access to clean, fresh water at all times, especially during outdoor activities.

The State’s Department of Land & Natural Resources also recommends bringing plenty of water while hiking with your dog. Do not let your dog drink from streams or stagnant bodies of water that may be contaminated with leptospirosis.

Additionally, provide shaded areas where dogs can rest and cool down when the sun is at its peak.

Sunburn is yet another risk, and dogs with light-colored or thin fur, light-pigmented noses and eyelids, short coats or exposed skin, are most susceptible. The nose, ears, belly, and other areas with sparse fur are especially vulnerable. To protect them, limit their exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and consider applying pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas like the nose and ears. Use a waterproof, unscented sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, ingredients in human sunscreen such as zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) are toxic to dogs.

With all these heat-related dangers, it’s up to us to ensure the well-being and safety of our furry companions. And have fun with them too, of course!

Hawaii’s TV Show about Pets

ISLAND DOG MAGAZINE LIST OF ADVERTISERS

Since 2008, Island Dog Magazine is published quarterly in February, May, August and November. Our distribution of 17,500 reaches more than 35,000 Island Dog owners— pet parents who seek out our magazine at select Safeway, Don Quixote, Times and Longs stores, as well as from veterinarians, pet retailers, and other dog-loving establishments. A digital edition is also posted on our website: IslandDogMagazine.com. For info on advertising, please call John Harmon at (808) 254-2992.

VCA HIGHLIGHT: High Risk Pregnancy

JPregnancy Problems

Jessica Sun, DVM DACVECC

ust like people, giving birth isn’t always easy! When there is a problem with giving birth naturally, we often need to resort to surgery to save mom’s life and save the puppies. A C-section (or ceasarian section) is a life saving surgery where babies are removed through an incision in the abdomen. The uterus can also be removed during this time to prevent further pregnancies and prevent the need for C-section in the future. Some dogs are at higher risk than others for having birthing problems. If your dog is high risk you may want to consider spaying them to prevent pregnancy and getting into a situation where they need an emergency surgery and may not survive.

What makes a high risk pregnancy?

Brachycephalic breeds – Dogs with smushed in faces are very cute but they also have larger heads and are more likely to need an emergency C-section because of the way they are shaped—many breeders choose to have planned C-sections for these dogs.

Single puppy pregnancies – These dogs may have been bred near the end of their heat, allowing the only puppy to grow larger, making it harder to be birthed naturally.

Large litter sizes – These dogs can get tired after passing multiple puppies and have difficulties giving birth to the remaining pups.

Age – Very young or older dogs getting pregnant have risks.

What are signs your dog may need an emergency C-section?

• Active labor for more than 4 hours with no puppy produced

• More than 2 hours between puppies with no contractions

• Bleeding, dark green or foul smelling discharge

• Puppy stuck in the vaginal canal

• Severe pain or general illness

If your pet is showing any signs they may need an emergency C-section, please give us a call and bring your pet in through our 24 hour emergency service.

At VCA, your pet’s health is our top priority and excellent service is our goal. We provide the very best medicine by offering a full range of services including primary, emergency, surgical and specialty all in one building. Our veterinarians and team treat your pet with the same level of care they would give to their own pet.

VCA FAMILY & OAHU VETERINARY SPECIALTY CENTER

Critical Care

Julie Pfeifer, DVM, DACVECC

Jessica Sun, DVM, DACVECC

Internal Medicine

Justin Wakayama, DVM, DACVIM

Carrie White, DVM, DACVIM

Medical Oncology

Lucy Teddy, DVM, DACVIM

Ophthalmology

Doris Wu, BVM&S, MRCVS, DACVO

Surgery

Nathaniel Lam, DVM, DACVS

Emergency

Lydia Lam, DVM

Nandini Mudelier, BVSc, MANZCVS

Alize Rodriguez, DVM

Katie Samuelson, DVM

Loren Schmidt, DVM

Anna Steele, DVM

Justin Yaphe, DVM

PRIMARY CARE

Sheryl Doi, DVM

Luis Ho, DVM

Rayne Johnson, DVM

Jasmine Kurisu, DVM

Lauren Kishimoto, DVM

Hillary Sullivan, DVM

Angelo Torres, DVM

Specialty

Kelly Boy and granddaughter Winter Reign dig this truck.