The High Road | Guam's Guide to Elevating Your Life | March 2011

MARCH 2011 — GUAM’S GUIDE TO ELEVATING YOUR LIFE | LIVING | FITNESS | STYLE | TECH | STRONGER MIND + BODY

Page 4 | RIDES: the all-new 2011 ford explorer VOL. 2, Issue 4

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CHAMORRO CULTURE SPOTLIGHT • A LOOK AT PRESERVATION • TRADITIONAL JEWELRY • THE CHENCHULE' EQUATION • FACING THE MODERN WORLD ... and more!

PUBLISHER'S POST The High Road, March 2011, Volume 2 NO. 4

Commitment is the key to ownership In our March 2010 edition, I used the word 'passionate' to describe the feelings that people experience when you ask them to reflect upon their culture or pets. As I think about these two subject matters today, a new THEME comes to mind. And that is, “taking ownership."

Spiritual and political leader Mahatma Gandhi once said, “I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all the lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.”

When we take ownership of something, we don’t just go through the motions — we do the very best we can — thereby increasing the chances of succeeding in the pursuit of our endeavors.

be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.”

Similarly, our challenges are to adapt to these modern, evolving times, and to effectively deal with a range of external influences, while concurrently conserving our roots. I’m optimistic this can be done.

Pets

When you read on, you’ll learn how John and Debbie Wise’s giant cat Raza keeps them on their toes, or how Kevin and Cristine Cruz nurtures their extended family of five dogs. Plus, we’ll share expert advice from Brett and Dr. Lisa Silk of Isla Veterinary so that you’ll know how to keep your pets healthy and happy.

CHANGING TIMES For Mes Chamorro, you’ll meet advocates of the local culture who’ve essentially taken ownership of the task to preserve their heritage. Whether they’re historians, artists, business or religious leaders, they’re carrying on the torch to ensure that future generations of Chamorros can continue to practice their way of life and be proud of their rich legacy.

Spiritual and political leader Mahatma Gandhi once said, “I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all the lands to

Pets play an integral part of many family units. Their mere presence can produce happiness, and their undying loyalty and companionship is sometimes something that the people in our lives can’t always offer. English novelist George Eliot said “Animals are such agreeable friends — they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.” These are key reasons why they’re so endearing to us.

Onto our second special section — Pet Care. Here, the theme “taking ownership” carries a more literal meeting. But as many pet owners know, there’s much more to “owning” an animal. They require a lot more than their basic necessities met. They need love, security, and appreciation.

definition: the high road also high·road n. The most positive, diplomatic, or ethical course.

In closing, thanks for taking The High Road. Our entire team has taken ownership of the publication to ensure that you find our magazine both insightful and uplifting. We hope you benefit from it, see you next month!

Sincerely,

Publisher Norman Analista Editor & DESIGNER Carlo Cariño Writers Hernalin Analista Leo Babauta Dave Currie, Ph. D. Jill Espiritu Sean Fitzsimmons, M.D. Peter Lombard, M.D. Steve Oshiro Suzanne Perez MaryAnn Pangelinan Genette Quan-Simmons Dave Ramsey Faye Varias Photography Eugene C. Herrera ADVERTISING SALES Greg Esplana Janet Kerrebrock Published by Triple J Creative Services For advertising Inquiries contact: Tel: 648-6081 Fax: 649-3679 ads@highroadmagazine.com THE HIGH ROAD Vol. 2 No. 4 is published 12 times per year (monthly)

by Triple J Creative Services, 157 South Marine Corps Drive Tamuning, Guam 96913; (671) 646-9126.

Copyright 2010 by Triple J Creative Services. All rights reserved. The reporting in THE HIGH ROAD is meant to increase your knowledge in various areas of life and well-being.

Because everyone is different, the ideas expressed and research shared cannot be used to diagnose or treat individual health or other problems.

Seek professional help. The views expressed in this publication are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of Triple J Creative Services, its staff, management or its Board of Directors. Triple J Creative Services makes no representation concerning and does not guarantee the source, originality, accuracy, completeness or reliability of any statement, information, data, finding, interpretation, advice, opinion, or view presented.

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MARCH 2011 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 13 Page 22 The Rundown 4 6 8 9

| Rides: The 2011 Ford Explorer | Relationships: Marriage Friends | Parenting: Raising Sons | Community Pulse

Special Section: CHAMORRO CULTURE IN FOCUS

Special Section: Pets Plus

28 | Picking the Right Pet 28 | Tropical Fish 30 | Good Works: Guam Animals in Need 31 | Cats Vs. Dogs 32 | Owner Profile: Must Love Dogs 34 | Isla Veterinary Clinic 35 | Doggie Day Care 35 | Dog Training 36 | Owner Profile: Exotic Cats 38 | Help kids cope with the death of a pet

Page 30 On the Cover MARCH 2011 — GUAM’S GUIDE TO ELEVATING YOUR LIFE | LIVING | FITNESS | STYLE | TECH | STRONGER MIND + BODY

10 | Preventing Cultural Erosion 13 | Style: Modern Chamorro Jewelry 16 | Investing: Rethinking Chenchule' 18 | Social Studies: Culture Talk 22 | Body Transformation 24 | Fitness: Dynamic Stretching Part II 26 | Finances: Ask Dave

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VOL. 2, Issue 4

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OUR ANNUAL SUPERGUIDE TO GUAM PET OWNERSHIP

CHAMORRO MONTH SPOTLIGHT • A LOOK AT PRESERVATION • TRADITIONAL JEWELRY • THE CHENCHULE' EQUATION • FACING THE MODERN WORLD ... AND MORE!

Jenna (11) and Jeremy (9) share smiles with Gracie, their German Shepherd. Gracie is a rescue animal who was adopted from the Guam Animals in Need (GAIN) Shelter in Yigo over two years ago.

Gracie, like many other abandoned or rescued strays at the shelter, was able to find a loving home and is now a part of a family.

Sharing the cover are mother and daughter Joyleen Sablan Suba and Jeniki.

Also on the cover is the 2011 Ford F-150 Platinum truck available now at Triple J Ford.

Rides | March 2011

You'll Never Regret | March 2011

By Dave Currie Ph. D.

Do You Have "Friends of the Marriage?"

The right people can give you strength and perspective

Misery loves company.

It seems like a universal norm that people tend to look for others who will give them a sympathetic ear regarding the perils being faced in life.

But what if your tensions center on problems within your marriage?

That’s when you need a, "Friend of the marriage." Dr. Pat Love, author and educator on marriage and family issues, introduced me to this concept. I love it and I pass it on with some extensive embellishment.

In the same way that success seeks out a place to celebrate, pain looks for room to vent.

When we are going through hard times in our marriage, we want to share our complaints with someone and have our feelings validated. When friends commiserate with us, we often grow justified in our perspective about the issues and how unreasonable our mate really is. Comments like “he is treating you so unfair” or “you shouldn’t put up with this” tend 6 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

They will fight for you within your marriage when you don’t have the strength to do so.

They have a positive disposition. to both console us and empower us.

The problem with “band wagon” friends can be two-fold: they may be merely telling you what you want to hear as a sign of friendship or they can be locked into their own unhealthy perspective and be giving some rather subjective and often erroneous advice.

Let me give you an example.

A couple well into their third decade of marriage was experiencing some serious troubles to the point of pending separation. In an attempt to get support, the wife sought solace in the audience of three friends. Subsequently,

her desire to leave her marriage grew as she felt their validation and encouragement. Their strong endorsement of the legitimacy of her complaints gave her more resolve to move on. The end of the marriage was inevitable.

Then she ran into my dear wife — a true friend of any marriage.

Donalyn heard her out on her marital concerns but then asked some very perceptive, soul-

searching questions. Further, my wife inquired about why the marriage was seemingly over in the woman’s mind. The lady sited the talks with her friends. With additional discussion, it turned out that these friends were either divorced or currently separated.

Is it any wonder they were sympathetic to her pain and suggested the answer was divorce?

My concern is that we are drawn

Send your questions to Dr. Dave at drdave@doingfamilyright.com or visit his website www.doingfamilyright.com Get Dr. Dave’s daily marriage and family tips by following him on Twitter.com/@doingfmilyright

towards people who will feel sorry for us, but they might not be the ones who give us the best perspective. You need a “Friend of the Marriage." This is a person who is committed to the value of marriage, keeps theirs a priority, and works to strengthen your primary relationship. In effect, they are pro-marriage. And we need both individual friends and couple friends who become advocates for our marriage.

There are five ways that a “Friend of the Marriage” proves to be genuine. You’d be wise to look for people who will do the following:

They CARE GENUINELY A friend of the marriage wants what’s best for you and is in your inner circle of trust and support.

They want a good marriage themselves and call you to greatness in yours. They have discussed what is important to you, and help your alignment to what is right. They will fight for you within your marriage when you don’t have the strength to do so. They have a positive disposition.

They LISTEN with SENSITIVity A true marital friend is generous with their time and will hear you out. There’s nothing cheap and shallow about their interest.

While ready to validate your marital frustrations, these advocates won’t hang out with you to merely sympathize with your stupidity.

No, they steer you with wisdom back to your spouse to address the issues. They have a positive approach.

They SPEAK OBJECTIVELY While their friendship is genuine, their viewpoint is true. They know there are two sides to every story and will keep a balanced

perspective on your marital problems. They “speak the truth in love.” They won’t let you trash your spouse. They challenge you when they see that your commitment to your mate is slipping.

True advocates say what needs to be said for your own good and point out where you need to change. They bring positive conversations.

They try to be a POSITIVE INFLUENCE “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”

Friends of the marriage will always direct you toward the truth and they do it best by their own example. Remember, you become like those you hang around with. Each of us is the average of the five people we spend most of our time with. True advocates are positive company.

They advise constructivELY “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

Friends of the marriage bring the best out of you. They are driven to help you do what is right by keeping healthy relational boundaries — by pushing you toward resolution and forgiveness, and by not accepting your excuses. They challenge you to do your part to turn the relationship around. Advocates help your marriage succeed. They steer you in a positive direction.

So, what’s your story? Who are the voices speaking into your married life? Who will be your “friends of the marriage”? Further, why not be an advocate for someone else’s most important relationship. You’ll never regret putting your marriage and family first and helping your friends do the same. ■

Parenting | March 2011

By Ken Canfield

Raising Self-Controlled Sons in the modern age “Today’s men are obsessed with money, greed and sex. We will talk about the first two, somewhat, but the last one we avoid.” So writes author Archie Wortham.

Wortham believes dads need to talk to other men about the challenges they have faced or are facing as men, then they’ll be better prepared to help their sons mature.”

Wortham’s comments resonate with me, especially since I helped to facilitate a Passage

ACTION POINTS • Point out inappropriate scenes on television or in the media.

Talk with your children about how those can influence our thinking (and thus our behavior) and why we need to establish a high moral code.

• Invest in technology that will block some of the images and messages that try to invade your home through the computer or TV screen.

• Have an “origins” talk with your young children and tell them how they came to be. Take it up a notch for your teens.

8 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

event that was attended by 360 fathers and sons. It was evident that the young men wanted to learn from their fathers about their development, and dads for the most part felt a little uncomfortable.

To break the ice, during the Friday evening session we asked sons and fathers to write anonymous questions that a panel would answer the next day. Here are a few of the common questions sons wrote: “Does my dad struggle with the same temptations I struggle with?” “How do I talk to my dad about the things I’m doing sexually?” “How do dads fight or defeat lust?”

Similarly, the fathers had these questions: “How much should I tell my son about my past, particularly when it’s bad?”

“Should I tell my son about my own struggles and some dark secrets in my life?” “When talking about sex to my son, how much do I share?”

I could list many other questions, but suffice it to say, we had a very lively panel discussion.

The take-away was this: For dads, it is critical to model responsible behavior. The way we conduct ourselves—e.g., our interaction with women, the way we expose ourselves to media, and even some of the behaviors we think are secret—is in reality being recorded on our child’s mental camcorders. Ultimately, a “code of moral behavior” is caught as much as it is taught.

We must model responsibility and self-control!

Second, as your son matures, don’t share your past unless you’ve resolved it. In other words, if you can’t share your past struggles at an appropriate time in his development, where it could be a help to him, chances are you haven’t resolved it yet. If you have unresolved issues, particularly sexual ones,

get help. Do whatever it takes to get them resolved. Then at the right time, share your failures or struggles with your son and let him know how you overcame them.

Third, don't try to deal with these challenging issues on your own. Find another dad you can confide in or seek competent professional help. ■

Friends and Neighbors | March 2011

Community Pulse If you have a positive photo of community interest, send it to community@highroadmagazine. com and we might include it in a future issue of The High Road.

Showcasing the hafa-adai spirit ay pay-less As Guam's oldest locally-owned grocery store, Pay-Less Markets has taken the lead in celebrating the culture of our island through in-store displays.

"Fiestan Pay-Less Markets" is the theme which kicks off Pay-Less Markets’ celebration of Chamorro Month. “All seven stores are challenged to decorate their respective stores reflecting the Chamorro spirit. Hot Pika specials are identified throughout the store and advertised in the Friday newspaper ads. In addition, every Friday, employees will be wearing island attire and spreading the Pay-

Less Hafa Adai spirit,” explained Kathy Sgro, Executive Vice President, Pay-Less Markets, Inc. Although one company, the seven Pay-Less stores each have unique identities. They also thrive on healthy competition amongst each other. The stores will compete with each other in the areas of creative produce display, demonstration of employee Hafa Adai spirit, music and ambiance.

Food and cooking are among the core ingredients of Chamorro culture, therefore, many of the displays will revolve around

local fare and artistry. “The produce department will highlight local produce and stores will have local delicacies for sale,” explained Sgro. ”Now more than ever, there appears to be a true resurgence and interest in Guam's culture. This is important with the influx of many nationalities on Guam including the imminent build up of the military community,” she added.

Last year, Pay-less Markets celebrated 60 years on Guam and is committed to providing the greatest customer value every day. This includes respect of body, land and culture. ■

0 Legends represented These are a variety of displays from the Agana Shopping Center and Sinajana Payless locations.

Images from Guam’s local legends like “Sirena," as well as traditional weaving adorn the stores’ aisles.

Culture Shift | March 2011

AN ACT OF PRESERVATION

FIGHTING CULTURAL EROSION

By Gennette Quan-Simmons

March commemorates Chamorro month, a time to celebrate Chamorro heritage, history and customs.

I realize that the purpose of this celebration is to keep the culture alive.

Which makes me wonder — why is there a need to designate a month to celebrate what should be an everyday occurrence?

Shouldn’t it be a given?

After all, isn’t Guam one of the Chamorro islands, rich with deep-rooted traditions and culture?

Or is it?

10 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

FAMILY LEGACY:

Joyleen Sablan Suba and her Daughter, Jeniki

Chamorro: Fino’ Chamoru: The soon to be lost language?

While preserving the language is synonymous with preserving the culture, studies have shown that the influence of the English language in Guam has caused the number of Chamorro speakers to rapidly decline and the younger generations are far less likely to know the language at all. A more serious concern is that of all the Marianas Islands, fluency among young speakers has greatly decreased in Guam.

Historian of Chamorro Stud-

ies Anthony Ramirez advocates a dire need to preserve the language and an even greater need to understand that English is simply an acquired language for Chamorros. “Chamoru language, use and comprehension are rapidly disappearing by today’s Chamoru generation. Language is an integral element in cultural identity. One of Chamoru ancestry must understand that Chamoru language is theirs by heritage. English is a borrowed language but not theirs,” says Ramirez.

Local native, musical artist, wife and mother Joyleen Sablan Suba attributes one of

the causes to outside forces.

“We've become a generation very much influenced by western society and if we do not continue to take steps to preserve our Chamorro language, it will, if it hasn’t already, become a vanishing language," Suba said.

Language plays a key role in preserving a culture. “I read recently that language represents different ways of perceiving the world, which reflect cultural traditions and localized knowledge, warning that in each of those cases when someone's mother tongue disappears in the 21st century, the culture will be lost,” Suba adds.

So, is the Chamorro language at risk of extinction? Maybe so, at the very least its use is certainly dwindling. As in decades past, English continues to be the primary language used in schools, government agencies, the majority of businesses, and everyday conversation. So, the more important question is what will it take to preserve it?

When it’s all said and done, preserving the language is only possible by taking ownership of the problem. “A society does not outsource its language, heritage and cultural identity through an educational institution. The change must stem from within. If I do not speak to my child in Chamoru at home, should I truly expect him or her to learn the language in

HISTORY IN PRESENT:

Anthony RAMIREZ

“If the schools continue to offer Chamorro classes starting at the elementary level through high school, we are headed towards a promised and preserved culture. But it starts at home by letting our kids know who we are."

- JOYLEEN SUBA Organizations like Pa’a Taotoa Tano and the Guam Community College have taken measures to implement a long-term goal of perpetuating the indigenous language and the Guam Legislature has also made headway in implementing public policy that include adding Chamorro language to school curriculum. But despite these efforts the solution is much simpler – it’s accountability.

“If the schools continue to offer Chamorro classes starting at the elementary level through high school, we are headed towards a promised and preserved culture. But it starts at home by letting our kids know who we are,” Suba said.

Ramirez adds that while public policy and the education system play a critical role in the preservation efforts it isn’t the be-all solution but instead an “extension of the home front to reinforce and solidify these elements. Never can an educational system substantiate the roots of cultural identity,” Ramirez said.

school?” Ramirez said.

STANDING the test of time In light of language and other cultural aspects at risk of becoming non existent, there are customs that remain prevalent today.

These include, the concept of mutuality within the community or Inafa’maolek, respect for the elderly, and religious practices.

Historian Lawrence Cunningham in 1992 wrote, "In a Chamorro sense, the land and its produce belong to everyone. Inafa’maolek or interdependence is the key or central value, in Chamorro culture. Inafa'maolek depends on a spirit of cooperation and sharing.

It is a powerful concern for mutuality rather than individualism."

The tradition of respecting elders can be seen in today’s youth.

Suba’s daughter, 18-year old Jeniki describes her appreciation of the customs and traditions inherited from her parents and grandparents. “Being Chamorro means many things to me. It means that

when I walk into a room at a party or family gathering, the first thing I need to do is fangi’ngi (the practice of kissing on the cheek or sniffing of the hands) all the elders,” Jeniki said.

Jeniki credits her family for teaching her the importance of implementing these practices.

“My father taught me to hunt and fish and my mother teaches me songs in Chamorro that in turn teaches me the language. She, as well as my grandfather, taught me how to cook local foods such as red rice, kelaguen, kadu, and tatiyas. And both my grandmothers who were deeply rooted in the Christian faith taught me the importance of God in Chamorro culture,” Jeniki said.

Prayer leaders or techas are an-

other integral part of the Chamorro culture. The word techa comes from the Chamorro word tucha which means to recite out loud.

Being a techa is viewed as a religious ministry and also an informal extension of the Catholic Church. The role of a techa continues to be prevalent in Chamorro society today.

Cecilia Borja has been a techa for 42 years. Borja’s ministry is not limited to Guam. She also practiced the tradition while living in the U.S. “I inherited three novenas when I got married and was given the prayer books in Chamorro along with the statues and so that started the Novenas. As for the rosary, while living in Miramar, Florida, a best friend of mine passed away in 1984 and her husband asked if I can say the

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Culture Shift | March 2011

AN ACT OF PRESERVATION

FIGHTING CULTURAL EROSION Rosary for her and so I did. I was asked to say rosaries for other Chamorros living in the area and when my husband and I returned to Guam, I continued to say rosaries,” Borja said.

Borja is optimistic about today’s generation maintaining this tradition. “I have attended Rosaries which have techas of the younger generation. I still have hopes that it will continue to grow. These are rosaries which were said in Chamorro so I am optimistic that it will not die out completely,” Borja said.

She also believes that taking ownership is necessary in preserving the custom. “We all know that unless you are determined to hold on to any tradition you must practice it continuously,” Borja added.

While certain aspects of the Chamorro culture are at risk of becoming extinct advocates like Ramirez, Borja, Suba and her daughter Jeniki continue to make strides in preserving this invaluable gift. After all, at the end of the day preservation begins at the individual level. ■

CONTINUED

A VOICE OF TRADITION: CECILIA BORJA

Style| March 2011

Showcase your pride in the Chamorro culture by incorporating traditional jewelry into your wardrobe.

LITA DUENAS

A GALLERY OF TRADITION

Chris DUENAS

(Clockwise from above)

1. A variety of spondylus pendants & silver necklaces by Mark Manglona, spondylus bracelet with spondylus bead accents by Benny Chargualaf.

2: Chris Duenas is wearing an Atupat (sling stone sinker) accented with spondylus necklace pendant by Frank Mateo 3. Sinahi pendant, spondylus necklaces by Mateo.

4. Lita Duenas is wearing a spondylus inlay on lettered cone shell accented with spondylus beads, spondylus pendants by Chargualaf and spondylus earrings by Manglona.

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

Frank Mateo

BennY CHARGUALAF

MARK MANGLONA

THE ARTISANS (Clockwise from TOP LEFT)

1. Mateo is wearing a sinahi pendant and spondylus necklace of his own design.

2: Manglona is sporting a Sinahi pendant with fly specked cone necklace, spondylus pendant with pin shell necklace all of his own design.

3. Chargualaf is wearing a Sinahi pendant with pin shell necklace, spondylus necklace of his own design.

16 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

CONTINUED ON Page 16

Style Continued | March 2011

Smart Investing | March 2011

CHENCHULE'

By Mike San Nicolas

A UNIQUE INVESTMENT During Chamoru month, I would like to reflect on a type of investment that is particularly unique and special to our island – the investment that we make in the social wealth of our island through the practice of chenchule’

A GALLERY OF TRADITION TOP LEFT: Chris Duenas is wearing a clam shell accented with spondylus by Mateo.

TOP RIGHT: Lita Duenas is wearing a purple spondylus necklace accented with spondylus bead & pin shell necklace

by Manglona, and purple candy stripe spondylus bracelet by Chargualaf.

ABOVE: Detail of a spondylus hook pendant, spondylus necklace, spondylus coin pendant by Chargualaf.

Credits: All jewelry shown was carved by Frank Mateo, Mark Manglona, and Benny Chargualaf. Mateo has been carving jewelry for over a decade while Manglona and Chargualaf have been working on their craft for over five years.

Photography: Eugene C. Herrera 16 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

An investment in one’s culture is a very unique undertaking because it is not done with the intent to realize any personal goal or objective. Rather, it is an intrinsic investment meant to show our love and support of one another.

Chenchule’ comes in many forms, be it monetary, in the form of goods and services, or in the contribution of one’s time. All of these are cultural investments on our island, and they serve as a special support network for the recipient, as well as an expression of love from the contributor.

The flow of money, time, goods, and services is what drives an economy. There are whole schools built on the study of these flows to determine how they shape and affect economic development in a particular area. What no one studies or measures is how these flows affect the development of social wealth in a community.

From a strictly observational standpoint it is clear that the flow of money, time, goods, and services in the form of chenchule’ has a tremendous impact on the goodwill, stability, and brotherhood of a community. All we need to do is go to any occasion where the practice of chenchule’ is in full force, and we will see family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers all coming together in love and support. This translates into a sustained atmosphere of more consideration for one another, respect for each other’s property, care for the young, old, and sick, and the desire to see each other succeed.

None of the positive aspects of chenchule’, or the positive practice of any other part of Guam’s culture, can be bought, manufactured, or duplicated by the wealthiest or most industrious nations.

Sometimes people who come to our island make the mistake of thinking that we are backwards in our development; I challenge that we are the rare exception in the world that is actually going forward. We take care of each other in ways that are very difficult to find in other places where money has a more prominent focus.

Going forward, our generation is challenged with taking all of the social wealth that our culture and tradition has built, and using our skills, education, and hard work to make it sustainable. The future of chenchule’ and our other cultural practices will be the fuel our island needs for us to come together to meet this challenge, unite our individual strengths, compensate for each others’ shortcomings, and elevate Guam further as the jewel of the Pacific. ■

Michael San Nicolas is a Wealth Manager with BG Wealth Management Services in the Bank of Guam, and serves as a Financial Advisor with an educational certificate in Financial Planning. A proud husband and father, Michael is the author of "A Father's Hand: Lessons for Life from Father to Son.”

Culture Shift | March 2011 Roundtable Talk | March 2011

SOCIAL STUDIES

EVERY MONTH, we invite everyday islanders to have a conversation about the topic of the day.

Here’s what they said.

Sherry Cruz

Joe Quinata

Frank Toves

Betty Ann Guerrero

Jeanette T.F. Suzuki

Aon Insurance Micronesia (Guam) Inc. Office Administrator

Chief Program Officer Guam Preservation Trust

General Manager GYOZA-YATAI-GUAM ”Chinese-Metro Cuisine”

Station Coordinator Pacific Telestations, Inc. d.b.a. KUAM TV, Radio and Web Page

Marketing Manager IP&E Guam

Why is it important to preserve Chamorro culture in a modern and evolving world?

Cruz: The Chamorro Culture is unique in comparison to the other cultures around the world.

For example, the mindset of our Manamkos is to always respect your elders. It is with this mindset that we are able to pass on compassion for others. Culture is taught and the best place to learn is at the home front through family.

Preserving the best of Chamoru culture such as "fan 'nge nge," respetu, considerasion, ina famaolek will lead to balance & happiness. Happiness is not a 100" flat screen TV hooked up to the internet with your iPhone!

segment called "Chagi Chamoru" which promotes our culture. You will witness young adults, children and the business community learning our language.

As a restaurateur, I see families come into the restaurant and father, mother, and the two kids are on their iPhones playing games

be less mindful of our heritage and culture and to succumb to modern influence becomes relatively easy, thus threatening our Chamorro culture. More and more Chamorros re-locate offisland and less and less of our younger generation speak the language openly and freely and with confidence and pride. In addition, cultural traits through attrition are less prevalent and harder to find as such cultural traits are practiced less due to a lack of interest by the younger generation as they gravitate towards modern technology.

“The traditional value oF Respeta can be viewed as a pre-requisite to all of the Chamorro traditional values. " — JOE QUINATA Toves: Chamoru Culture is not what it was in ancient times, because of the Spanish Occupation, or more recently, Post World War II. It is an amalgamation of all of that.

Our culture is that of self-sufficiency, self respect, respect for others, being considerate of others for their feelings & needs with the social etiquette to preserve that & peace & harmony on an isle 32 miles long.

18 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

or instant messaging. What kind of togetherness is that?

Guerrero: Keeping our culture alive is important because it preserves our sense of identity in a world that is being dominated by Western influences. In preparation of the influx of people as a result of the military buildup, it is important that all necessary preparations are in place to maintain our cultural identity. KUAM News has a

Suzuki: The tendency to

Quinata: The Chamorro lan-

guage today is spoken in many variations that not all are fully aware of. There is the Chamorro language orthography that is being taught at public education institutions on Guam. Second is the, "spoken,” Chamorro language used in an informal setting such as homes, parties, and other gatherings of families and friends. The last is the “slang”

Chamorro language spoken in the vernacular of today’s society, of which is a fusion of the Chamorro language with another. It is important that we understand the variations of the Chamorro language to communicate with each other well for it is the essence of the sharing of knowledge or tiningo-ta that preserves the Chamorro culture.

Other aspects of the Chamorro culture are the traditional values that we hold and embrace even in today’s ever-changing world.

These values identify us as unique from other cultures. Two important traditional values that are apparent in today’s Chamorro culture are Ina’fa’maolek or, “to care for one another,” and Respeta or “to respect one another." The Chamorro traditional values are evident as many visitors’ comments portray that the people of Guam are unique in a way that transcends the spirit of caring not only to each other but to visitors alike. During times of disasters or even tragedies to families or individuals, the people of Guam have demonstrated the spirit of Ina’fa’maolek consistently.

How can we get young people interested in learning about Chamorro history and the language?

Cruz: To get the new generation interested in the Chamorro history and language, we must continuously remind them of who they are, where they come from and the importance of doing their part to ensure that the history and “lingguahe” is practiced on a daily basis and passed on. Speaking even the littlest Chamorro helps or surrounding them with people who speak the language fluently is also another way to get them interested. Listening to Chamorro music and participating in cultural dances, these are other ways to arouse interest — I have four children and they were involved in cultural dances since they were five years old. As they are now older, they are proud to be Chamorro and although they don't speak the language fluently, their appreciation and passion for promoting our culture has grown.

Toves: As much as my previous response may indicate that I'm anti-being connected online, I believe that the internet can be a positive influence for getting Chamoru history & language out there. We are all busy with making money to support our families and our families are busy with their school and other activities, that an online & also TV media would probably be the best way to promote such preservation & use. I would advise that we use our iPhones & game pods at home and all go to family outings, fiestas, Christenings, weddings, rosaries so that we can again interact with our neighbors & our relatives and practice the Chamoru culture at these gatherings.

Guerrero: Its not about

them becoming interested because they want to keep their culture alive. It's the resources

that we have. We need to reemphasize and revitalize the whole Chamorro curriculum in our education system. KUAM has partnered with Hurao Academy for its daily Chagi Chamoru to provide an outlet for learning Chamoru.

Suzuki: We should continue the requirement of Chamorro studies in schools from grade school onward. Have more plays, events & activities performed in the Chamorro language. Instill in our young people the value of the Chamorro heritage and the pride that must be bestowed upon the knowledge of who we are, where we came from and what we stand for in the hope that renewed interest is re-ignited thus allowing our culture to remain strong in the hearts and minds of all Chamorros.

Quinata: There are many

ways one can learn about the Chamorro history without taking a class and hitting the books.

The history of the Chamorro people can be learned through many formats such as music, dance, poet slams, exhibits, film documentary, website creations, craft making, seafaring, and the list can go on. There are many organizations, schools, and communities that provide the venue and sometimes the means to learn. Learning the history of the Chamorro people with music is accessible through religious organizations, cultural groups, and festivals that are scheduled throughout the year.

Poetry slams is a new way to express the culture and history of the Chamorro people. A community of young poets have come together to share their talents though poetry slams. ■

Proa Restaurant: Serving Up Authentic Local Dishes In celebration of Chamorro Month, PROA Restaurant will be offering additional menu items to its already impressive selection of unforgettable, local fare! The restaurant is known for serving up local dishes with a modern twist and presenting them with its signature flair.

According to Chris Bejado, Partner and Director of Hospitality, you can expect to be served daily specials through the end of March. A limited-time menu item will be kelaguen,

and like to label it as Marianas Regional Cuisine. We don’t call ourselves a Chamorro Restaurant, but we use elements and flavors of our region’s cuisine and incorporate it into our

an assortment of it- including chicken, fish, and shrimp.

Bejado emphasizes that all PROA’s dishes are made with simple, fresh ingredients. “We like to use local lemon and

dishes,” said Bejado.

add the right amount of onions to give it the right flavor.”

Bejado says you can expect some exciting new twists to this classic, popular dish. The kelaguen will come with deep fried titiyas and tortilla bowls, making the meal both pleasing to the tummy as well as to the eye.

Add to that, PROA offers 10% off on all entrees and 10% off on 9” cakes when you use your Citibank Credit Card. And, not just for March, but for every month. The offer is good for one card per table.

The restaurant has recently started offering fresh young coconut juice served in its green, smooth shell. It has proven to be a hit with both the restaurant’s local and tourist patrons. And, it will undoubtedly fit right in with their Chamorro Month offerings.

Tasting Guam’s rich culture through its food is a strong way to bridge present day living with Chamorro heritage.

Therefore, Bejado explains that they don’t take short cuts when preparing dishes like red rice. “We use achote seeds, the authentic way grandma used to make the rice red - not powder.”

A popular dish amongst patrons is the Hibachi style barbeque short ribs, chicken, or spare ribs. For those craving all three barbeque choices, the Big Feller TRIO platter is available. The Hibachi style barbeque is served with a simple salad and choice of red or steamed rice.

PROA is located in the heart of Tumon next door to the Guam Visitors Bureau. The restaurant opened its doors in October 2006 and has since grown in popularity. Next door to the restaurant is the Sweet Relief Pastry Shop also owned by Bejado and his partners, Geoffery Perez, and Mark Duenas.

Bejado said he chose the name PROA because it incorporated an important element of Guam’s history. Bejado said the concept revolved around creating a casual dining setting while keeping with the theme of the ocean, sky, and earth.

Customers can indulge in fine dining quality cuisine without the fine dining price. “Our cuisine is primarily Pacific Rim If you don’t already have a Citibank Credit Card, stop by their Hagatna branch, visit www.citibank.com.gu, or call Citiphone at 477-CITI (2484) and take advantage of all the great benefits the cards have to offer.

Body Transformation | March 2011

TuRNING TO

By MaryAnn Pangelinan

How Lanee Lim-Mendiola lost weight for her wedding and dropped 65 pounds Lanee Lim, now LimMendiola, struggled with weight for a long time. She is a first grade teacher with two young children of her own.

The odds of losing weight and keeping it off were against her.

Preparing to get married was her primary motivation to get her body in shape. “I didn’t want to be a heavy bride. Since the day my fiancée proposed to me and a wedding date was set, I convinced myself that it was time to buckle down and focus on eating well and exercise regularly.” Lim-Mendiola wanted to be radiant.

It became obvious to Lim-

22 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

Before: Lim-Mendiola in June 2010. She weighed 220 pounds and had 48% body fat.

Mendiola that she needed to get professional help when she was not getting the weight loss results she wanted after eight months of trying on her own.

She was feeling hopeless and stressed at the idea of being a 220 pound bride. Planning for her wedding became depressing and this was the determining factor for enlisting the help

After: Lim-Mendiola in February 2011. Her total weight loss at this point was nearly 65 pounds.

of Tony Morrison. She committed to his weight loss and nutrition program that including a customized meal plan, resistance training three times a week, daily cardiovascular activity, and weekly monitoring and assessment. She claims that “It was the best decision she had ever made.”

Morrison taught Lim-Mendio-

la how to create a meal plan based on her body’s needs and goals. Learning how to calculate her recommended daily consumption of carbs, protein, and fat helped properly fuel her body while keeping it in a fat burning mode. Daily 30-45 minutes of cardio activity on the stair climber or treadmill was mandatory for continued week-

THE EXPERTS ly weight loss. Lim-Mendiola lost 45 pounds in 12 weeks and became the radiant bride she wanted to be, but it didn’t stop there.

As Morrison mentioned in The High Road, September 2010 issue, a specific strategy needs to be developed for anyone aiming to transform their physique and maintain a fit body.

Lim-Mendiola was not stopping after losing 45 pounds; she wanted to get into the best shape possible. She understood that the weight loss has just begun and she was determined to lose more weight. Lim-Mendiola started at 220 pounds with 48% body fat on June 2010. As of February 2011, she has gone down to 155.5 pounds with 27.2% body fat and she is still going.

“Tony is by far, my best kept secret all revealed now! He is not only my trainer and my coach, but he also happens to be a really great friend. He motivates me constantly to visualize everything I can be, and encourages me to believe in myself to reach my goals, to stay focused, and to keep working hard to get there!” she said.

MaryAnn Pangelinan is president of the Guam National Physique Committee. She has a B.A. in Education from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Pangelinan is an International Federation of Bodybuilding Gold Medalist. She is Tony Morrison’s Nutrition & Weight Loss Program Coordinator.

Morrison has a B.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of Guam and is a Sports Nutrition Specialist. He has been a strength and conditioning coach for over a decade.

Contact her at 929-0963 for more information on Morrison’s weight loss, nutrition, and strength & conditioning training programs. ■

Pictures of progress Left: Lim-Mendiola's wedding day in October, 2010. She lost 45 pounds before the big day.

Bottom left: Lim-Mendiola on January 17, 2011 at 161 pounds with 28% Body fat.

Below and Bottom right: Lanee’s weight loss strategy included a weekly dinner with her family at her favorite restaurant, Rotary Sushi. She learned to adjust her meal plan accordingly to fit her dinner night out; she enjoys eating sushi knowing she can continue to lose weight weekly.

Fitness | March 2011

24 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

DYNAMIC STRETCHING FOR ATHLETES? By JR Romero As an athlete, I've noticed that dynamic stretches that better prepare me for my games. By going through the movements that will be performed in the game, I feel better prepared when crossing into the field and going to handle the task I have at hand.

Dynamic Stretches are the modern and effective method of warming up for running, athletics and indeed, sport sessions of all types. Dynamic stretches are best incorporated into your warm up routine before training or a competition. Dynamic stretches seem to be more effective at reducing muscle stiffness, which is thought to increase the likelihood of muscle tears. Dynamic stretching uses speed of movement, momentum and active muscular effort to bring about a stretch; a way to get the body warm and prepared for the event you are about to take part in while the brain focuses on the job at hand.

Recent studies have confirmed the benefits of what the athletic coaches of yesterday were putting into practice which was dynamic stretching. Correspondingly, static stretching may reduce strength, power and speed, hindering sprinting, jumping, and endurance performances. Static stretching typically involves holding a stretch in a muscle for up to 30 seconds and is a common warm-up procedure for players of all games and athletes in all sports, with the belief that it reduces the risk of injury but instead it can work against the athlete in a negative way. While static stretching typically holds the muscle for a tolerable period, dynamic stretching requires the athlete or player to move through such a stretch in just a few seconds.

Dynamic flexibility has been used successfully by trainers and coaches to increase flexibility and possibly lower the incidence of injury. It is the job of the coach or trainer to pick the method they feel is best suited for the sport and athletes. Dynamic stretches are generally used to prevent muscle strain and to safely allow for swift, powerful movements by athletes. Athletes who play sports that require sudden movements from a standstill, such as track runners or baseball players, tend to benefit the most by dynamic stretching. Dynamic stretching routines are usually customized for particular sports to mimic movement’s specific to each individual sport.

Movements are designed to prepare the muscles for sudden movements by slightly raising the body temperature. The warmer body temperature usually makes the body better able to handle sudden movement than a cooler, unprepared body.

By stretching out muscles through movements similar to ones that occur during athletic competition, the body may become used to the movements and less likely to become injured. Some athletic trainers promote the use of dynamic stretches as a means to prepare the body for the optimal athletic performance over time by making the body become familiar with the movements.

As an athlete’s body gets used to the movements, it may not take as much effort to perform the movements during competition and come more naturally. They may include simple movements like arm circles and hip rotations, flowing movements as in yoga, or walking or jogging exercises. â–

Jonahan "JR" Romero recently moved to Guam from Puerto Rico. He played Professional Soccer for Bayamon Futbol Club in Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rico Islanders for two years. Romero also played over three years of Soccer at the University of Memphis in Conference USA NCAA division I.

Ask Dave | Finances | March 2011

By Dave Ramsey

Is it MOrally right to accumulate Wealth?

Does scripture really say you should go without?

Dear Dave, You’re always talking about accumulating piles of cash.

I’ve gone to church for several years, and the Bible says not to lay up treasures on earth. Doesn’t that mean that we shouldn’t accumulate wealth or be greedy?

— George Dear George, The Bible also says in Proverbs that in the house of the wise there are stores of choice food and oil.

If you look back through scripture, you’ll find that many of the major Biblical characters were very wealthy people who understood they were not the owners of the money and wealth. They understood that their job was to manage these things properly for God’s glory.

I can appreciate your concern, George, but when I talk about piles of cash my frame of reference is that we’re to handle our money and other possessions for good and for God. It’s not about

26 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

greed, or to use in buying bigger and better stuff for ourselves.

But you can’t do good things if you don’t have the strengths to do good things!

— Dave

Dear dave, My wife is divorcing me, and we just had our first baby boy. I feel it’s my responsibility to take care of her until the divorce is final, and to keep her in a safe vehicle. She’s driving a 1982 Honda Civic, and it’s so small any kind of wreck could be a disaster. I’m thinking about buying her a new car. What do you think?

If it were me, and the relationship couldn’t be salvaged, I’d find a large used car – one that either one of you can pay for with cash – and let her drive off into the sunset. But spend every second you can hugging and loving your little boy, and make sure you’re a fixture in his life. He’s going to need someone like you.

— Dave

LAWN CARE LUXURY?

income. If you’re a surgeon making $350,000 a year, then making lawn care part of your monthly budget is probably pretty reasonable. Now, if you’re only making $26,000 a year, you probably need to get behind the mower and start pushing it yourself!

Is this a snobbish attitude? I don’t think so. It’s a simple matter of mathematics. What is your personal time worth in the marketplace, and should you be plying your trade out in the world rather than mowing the lawn?

— Mike.

Dear Mike, I’m really sorry you guys are going through all this, especially with a brand new baby in the mix.

I appreciate your nobility and attitude about the situation, but you need to realize that once you’re divorced, it’s no longer your responsibility to take care of her.

Divorce carries a lot of emotional stress and worry for everyone involved, but I don’t think buying her a new car will solve anything.

It may actually lead her to expect even more from you later on.

I’m going to take a wild guess that the truth of the matter is you’re worried about your child, and this whole thing is breaking your heart. That’s natural, Mike.

It means you love your baby. But a “safe” car doesn’t have to mean a brand new car. You could put her in an old Suburban and she’d be safe, because those things are tanks!

Dear dave, We currently pay to have our lawn mowed each week. This expense is figured into our monthly budget, but we’re not quite out of debt yet. My wife says this is a luxury at this point, and I should cut the grass myself until we’re out of debt. What do you think?

Let’s say you’re an attorney who charges $400 an hour. In that case, you’re probably going to be better off out there lawyering — especially if you’re trying to get out of debt — than you would pushing a mower. But if you make $12 an hour, it’s a good idea for you to be cutting your own grass, isn’t it?

—Ty

Whether or not something is a “luxury” depends on your own personal income and financial situation. That’s how I look at it.

I think it depends a lot on your

— Dave ■

Dear ty,

Dave Ramsey is a personal money management expert, popular national radio personality and the author of three New York Times best sellers – The Total Money Makeover, Financial Peace Revisited and More Than Enough. In them, Ramsey exemplifies his life’s work of teaching others how to be financially responsible. For more information visit www.daveramsey.com.

Lifelines| March 2011

A New Beginning at the SDA Wellness Center • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

76/Circle K Agana Shopping Center: Casa de Essence, Gino’s, Java Junction, SM B&J Video, Anigua Ben Franklin’s Craft Store Champion Sporting Goods, Upper Tumon Coldstone Creamery: Micronesia Mall, GPO Faith Book Store Feathers N Fins FHP Clinic Hava Java, Hagatna Hertz locations Hollywood Theaters, Guam Premier Outlet JB’s Ukele Hut, Hagåtña Kim Chee, Agat Mark’s Sporting Goods MCV Broadband Macheche Location McDonald’s: Hagatna, Tamuning Micronesia Mall Theatres Mobil, Participating locations: Upper Tumon, Apra Heights, Airport, East Hagatna, Fatima, Adelup Opus One in Anigua

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Oriental Supermarket, Agat Outback Steakhouse Paradise Fitness Center: Hagåtña, Dededo Payless Supermarkets: Micronesia Mall & Yigo locations PMC Clinic Port of Mocha, Tumon and Micronesia Mall PROA Restaurant Rambies: Micronesia Mall, Hafa Adai Exchange Seaside Fish Mart Seventh-Day Adventist Guam Clinic Shell SHIMBROS/Rhythm & Brews The Piazza, Hagatna Town House Furniture Store Triple J Auto Group Locations Triple J Commercial Tire Center Tropical Living, Hagatna Video Queen, Agat Video Quest, Tamuning

By Dr. Keith Horinouchi, Director of the SDA Wellness Center The New Year at the Seventh-day Adventist Guam Clinic’s Wellness Center did indeed start off with a “New Beginning” or more specifically a new lifestyle program called, “Genesis — A New Beginning."

With more than 15 years of providing lifestyle medicine services to the community of Guam and throughout Micronesia, the staff at the Wellness Center wanted to take these experiences and to develop a program that was fresh, local and met the needs of our community.

Lots of hard work went into developing Genesis months prior to the launch in January of this year by our staff including Nutritionist and Dietitian Candy Sim RD, MPH, Wellness Coordinator, Bryan Donker, health education assistant Elvie Fujikawa and myself. The evidence in the medical literature and what we see all around us is that improving our lifestyle habits can effectively manage and reverse the most common health problems like diabetes, obesity, cancer, heart disease, gout, hypertension and much more. But as they say, “the proof is in the pudding," or to “fully test something you have to experience it." This is where the NEWSTART and other programs have been successful for the past decade, from the experiences of each and every one who had gone through our programs.

Here are a few testimonies from Genesis and other Wellness Programs: • “My life now and in the future days to come is very well equipped with the knowledge of my health and well-being. I pray for the staff and my classmates. It’s wonderful.”

• “After a week of this lifestyle, my blood pressure and blood sugars have dropped tremendously.”

• “I am not experiencing any of the cravings I normally would have with diets. I am eating a more wholesome and balanced diet.”

So why don’t you have a “new beginning” in your life today. Genesis is a six-week long intensive lifestyle program to help you successfully improve your health and your family’s. Conveniently scheduled in the evenings and at the Hilton Resort and covered by much insurance.

Give us a visit at the Wellness Center or contact us at 647-7520 or 646-8881. Be a part in our next Genesis, A New Beginning starting in March while enrollment is still available.

Special Section | March 2011

Pets + PLUS

The High Road showcases Guam's pets, pet owners, and services for animal lovers.

Fur, fins or feathers it’s best to do your research before picking a pet

By Faye Varias

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a pet. Dogs, birds, turtles, rabbits, hamsters — you name it, I probably had it. Minus the exotic ones.

My first pet was Rocky, a toy poodle that my dad brought home when I was two years old, who lived until I was well into high school. So naturally, as an adult and Animal Planet devotee, I couldn’t imagine my life without any pets.

However, being a pet owner means a totally different thing when you’re an adult versus being a child. And the responsibilities are a lot clearer. Unlike Teddy Ruxpin and Barbie dolls, Fido can’t be placed on the shelf or in storage when he’s no longer fun and convenient to play with. At six weeks old, Fido is a cute, huggable little pup. But just a few short months later, he isn’t so cute after he’s chewed through another pair of shoes, left mud stains on the couch and can only be described as nothing more than sixty pounds of slobber and fur. Not to mention the treasure he just left on the brand new area rug.

Yet, those of us who do give in to pet own-

ership know that pets offer a sense of calm and presence of unconditional love that you have to experience to know.

Ah, pet parenthood. Non-pet owners may underestimate it, but to me, it is just like having a child. While it’s extremely rewarding, like every other living thing, it needs food, shelter and comes with a lot of re-

sponsibilities. So before you give in to your toddler’s pleas for a new pet, read on to see if you’re really ready. Just to throw in a reality check, thousands of animals (as many as 40 each day) are brought in to the Yigo Animal Shelter every year because of people who didn’t realize the responsibilities of

CONTINUED 1

Getting started WITH tropical fish The initial cost of having fish as pets may discourage some potential pet owners, but once the right tank is set up, the financial cost will decrease substantially.

Barbara Zimmerman usually asks customers looking 28 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

to buy pet fish if they already have a fish tank at home and if so, what its size is and what type of fish they might already have. She also asks what type of fish they envision owning in the future, as some fish are not compatible with others when it comes to sharing the tank.

A general rule of thumb for fresh water tanks is one inch of fish per gallon. For goldfish in particular, it may be one inch of fish per gallon and a half.

You should consider the size of

By Jill Espiritu

the fish in its adult size and not necessarily the size when it was purchased.

For families looking to use an aquarium as an accent to a child’s room, a five-gallon tank is a good starter size. Particularly for young children, this type of tank is almost as important as the type of fish in it. Popular options for children are Spongebob Squarepants tanks, mermaid-themed tanks and even alien-themed tanks, Zimmer-

CONTINUED PAGE 31

pet ownership. So do your homework.

Are YOU Ready?

As much as you would like to teach your child responsibility by giving him or her a pet, ultimately, the life of that animal is your responsibility. Parents who don't want a pet shouldn't get one just to please their kids, especially if they are not comfortable with pets. Getting the whole family involved is the key.

For toddlers, it’s best to start with a pet that doesn’t require much maintenance, like fish.

You can start them off by helping take a pinch of food at feeding time and remembering what time the fish need to eat. As they get older, depending on the child, you can graduate them to a hamster, guinea pig or bunny.

Get your children involved in the feeding schedule and their pets’ care and make it a fun family activity rather than a chore.

Can I Get A Puppy?

Before diving into major pet commitment, talk to a veterinar-

ian or employees at the shelter.

Explain your living situation and get some input about what type of pet is best for your family. Talk to families in similar situations and get their feedback and advice.

Remember, puppies and kittens on average live well past 10 years, which is a really long commitment. Ask yourself where you see yourself in 10 years and ensure that there is a place for your pet in that plan.

Once you decide on a pet, consider adopting one from GAIN. GAIN evaluates the temperament and personality of its animals to help you make a good match. The shelter can also be a great place to find adult animals, who have already reached their full size and have a somewhat clear personalities.

Adopting an animal is also a great lesson in teaching the value of helping an animal in need. Choosing a shelter pet saves the life of a beautiful animal which sends a message to children about empathy, caring and understanding, rather than buying a pet from a store.

Caring for Another Despite the chewed stilettos, broken furniture and fur becoming part of my daily wardrobe, I think most pet parents would agree that the emotional rewards of having pets make the tasks well worth it.

In learning to care for an animal, children also learn to care for all creatures. And whether that means a pet, children

of their own, a friend in need, or an aged parent or grandparent, caregiving is a lifelong experience. ■

Faye Varias is the owner of the Puppy Love Guam pet product line and volunteers regularly with Guam Animals In Need. She and her family care for a total of eight dogs: Maxine, Tilly, Ben, Jerry, Billy, Zeke, Zeus and Brendan.

Good Works | March 2011

By Jill Espiritu

Guam Animals IN NEED Puppy cuteness — we’ve all felt a weakness because of it at one time or another. For some people like Abby Borrego, it’s enough reason to adopt one and become an instant pet owner.

Borrego, who had never owned a dog before, visited the Guam Animals in Need (GAIN) animal shelter and her heart just melted for a puppy she named “Kimchi.”

“There are so many animals to choose from, and the volunteers and employees who work at the facility are very helpful in answering questions,” Borrego says. “As you might expect, it is extremely hard to leave the gates of GAIN empty handed.

The animals will win your heart over immediately.”

Although Kimchi found a loving home, for many animals at the Yigo shelter, such a fate is not realized. According to Faye Varias, marketing chairperson for GAIN, at any given time, the shelter accommodates between 70 and 100 animals. Every year, about a couple thousand animals — mostly stray dogs and cats — are relinquished to the shelter and not all will be adopted.

“I always hated seeing so many stray animals on the street and other unwanted animals,” says Julie Grady, GAIN animal shelter’s new manager originally from New York. “Seeing them constantly, I felt that I needed to start doing something to fix that problem, I just

30 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

felt obligated.”

The shelter is only one component of GAIN, an organization that was incorporated in 1989 “for the prevention of cruelty to animals, education of the public concerning animal welfare and the implementation and enforcement of good laws pertaining to animals.”

Although GAIN had already been in existence for a few years, it wasn’t until 1993 that all Guam laws pertaining to animals were revised. From then, a handful of animal protection laws were enacted and several bills were introduced into the Legislature, including a bill to criminalize dog fighting which passed in 2008. In addition to lobbying for more animal rights laws, GAIN “also takes part in several school outreach programs, conducts adoption drives, and holds a monthly socialization get together to promote responsible pet ownership,” Varias says.

The organization relies primarily on volunteers, donations and grants.

The animals aren’t the only beneficiaries of GAIN’s work — the whole community, animal-lovers or not, benefits also.

Curbing the stray animal population contributes to increased safety on the streets. Adopting a pet can liven up and protect a home and in some cases, teach children and adults alike about responsibility. Participating in GAIN activities promotes camaraderie among pet owners and volunteers and the list of benefits goes on.

“I’ve gotten companionship and home protection from the dogs, and have met some very good people through GAIN activities,” says Seth Forman, a regular at GAIN’s Bark in the Park every second Sunday of the month at Ypao Beach Park.

Forman currently owns four pets, including two adopted dogs from the shelter. The first dog Forman adopted from GAIN in 1995 — Kansas — passed away in 2010. Forman adopted Sahara in 2008 and later, Lukita, just last year from the animal shelter. Forman also has taken in two cats.

Froda is a stray cat that howled

in a tree near his family’s property and Forman’s son found Yalus begging for burgers at the Hagåtña McDonalds parking lot.

Other than adopting animals from the shelter, the community can assist the organization by participating in various outreach programs, education, by simply spreading the word about the organization’s mission and by being kind to animals, Varias says.

Although Borrego has only had Kimchi for a little over a month, her life has taken a positive turn since bringing the pet home.

“GAIN really does so much for the community in Guam, and we think it is important to support their efforts.”

If adopting a dog from GAIN and knowing she saved the dog’s life doesn’t bring enough joy to her, it will be each time she is greeted at the door by a wagging tail and a wet kiss from Kimchi. ■

The GAIN Animal Shelter in Yigo is open 7 days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adoption requires an application submission and a $35 base fee, which doesn't include a pet sterilization fee and pet license. Call 653-4246 (GAIN) or visit www. guamanimals.org/index.html

By Jill Espiritu

The case for Dogs vs. Cats Choosing to add a pet to a home should be thought out well in advance and carefully planned. Pets are living beings and require varying amounts of interaction with their owners. Once a commitment is made to add a pet to one’s home, deciding on the type of pet is the next question on which to weigh heavily.

Dogs “First off, I try to determine if the family wants a purebred or a rescue dog – the difference is in the amount of money they are willing to spend with purebreds being more expensive,” says Barbara Zimmerman, owner of Feathers ‘N Fins in Hagåtña. “Next, I’ll ask if the dog will be an inside dog or an outdoor dog. If the dog will be an outdoor dog, I’ll ask if they have a fenced yard. Without a fence, the dog may get run over by cars, stolen, or run off.”

For families looking to care for an indoor dog, Zimmerman recommends smaller dogs or toy breeds like a Shih Tzu, Maltese, Chihuahua, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel among others. Outdoor dogs can be bigger breeds, as toy breeds constantly like to interact with humans and would not fit outdoors. Toy breeds generally do not handle the outdoor heat well, either.

Once the indoor/outdoor question is answered, Zimmerman may follow up with questions about the household, including number of children, other pets the family might already own, and type of housing – single unit house with fence, condominium

or apartment, for example.

There’s also the question of whether to bring a puppy or an adult dog home. It’s important to understand the family’s lifestyle, or essentially the time commitment they’ve made for the dog.

doors or outdoors. Zimmerman recommends that all cats be kept indoors. In the event that the cat must be kept outdoors, Zimmerman recommends that a long-haired cat or Persian cat be selected. For some, there’s a

Compared to dogs, cats generally are easier to care for, as they’re more independent.

While dogs generally are loyal companions from the start, cats are generally more cautious.

“Puppies need to be housetrained, need to be taught manners and need to be taken out frequently,” Zimmerman says. “If your lifestyle has you out of the house ten hours a day, a puppy is a poor choice.

“Additionally, if you like to jog, boonie stomp or go to the beach a lot, a more active dog would be suitable. For a more indoors type of person, a calmer, less active dog would work,” Zimmerman adds.

Cats For cats, there is no question as to whether to keep them in-

color preference. Some may not take a black cat, Zimmerman says, or the interested cat owner might remember the color of the cat he or she had as a child and want the same colored one. Zimmeran notices that many people in Guam prefer bigger cats to smaller ones and many ask for cats that resemble Garfield – a popular comic.

Compared to dogs, cats generally are easier to care for, as they’re more independent. While dogs generally are loyal companions from the start, cats are generally more cautious.

“Cats are more like – ‘you come

to me and show me you love me,’” Zimmerman says with a chuckle. “As long as you provide cats with the right shots as a kitten, visit the veterinarian regularly, and give it food, toys and a litter box, it’s happy.”

Although cats are known to have more independent-type personalities, they still greatly appreciate human interaction and will generally curl up with their owners.

Cats also are known to scratch furniture with their claws. Some cat owners opt to purchase scratching posts for their feline friends or purchase blunt fake nails to put over the cat’s claws. An extreme measure by a cat owner is to have the cat declawed.

As with puppies, kittens also take a lot of time commitment, but can also be immensely rewarding.

“Kittens provide wonderful entertainment and are very playful,” Zimmerman says. “Sometimes they get rambunctious and will knock over things from tables or scratch furniture and other things. You’d need a lot of patience for the kitten to grow up,” she explains. ■

TROPICAL FISH CONTINUED: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 man says.

Especially for young children, bright and multi-colored energetic fish are a big hit. Zimmerman also recommends guppies or platy fish for younger kids, or even goldfish. She says goldfish should be separated from other types of fish, because they tend to defecate more often, and constant tank cleaning is necessary. Additionally algae-eating fish cannot go in the same tank as goldfish.

For potential first-time fish owners who live in a place with limited space, a conservative ten-gallon tank may add visual interest to one’s home quite well. Zimmerman doesn’t recommend anything larger than a 29-gallon tank for first-time fish enthusiasts.

Zimmerman and her team will send new fish pet parents with a wealth of information about tank maintenance and caring for their fish. Information ranges from a scientific explanation of the nitrogen cycle to something as basic and necessary as how to change the

tank’s water and when. Generally, a partial water change (about 25 percent of the tank) needs to be done every five days or if the fish are noticeably stressed, the pet owner should do a partial water change right then.

Fish are not as interactive as cats and dogs, but still require constant attention and care for its wellbeing. Regardless of the type of fish you choose to bring home, remember that the commitment to care for the animal is for its lifetime. ■

Pet Ownership | March 2011

By Jill Espiritu

MUST LOVE DOGS If raising a two-year-old boy with the help of her husband isn’t hard enough, Cristine Pervez-Cruz also has to contend with five dogs — the additional members of her household.

“What dog doesn’t have their own distinct personality?” Pervez-Cruz says. Joining PervezCruz at home is her husband Kevin and son, Dylan Preston, both of whom help care for their five other canine family members. One of the boonie dogs, Yogi, is like an old man who likes to keep to himself and doesn’t like to be bothered by the other dogs. Homer, her other boonie dog, is all-around friendly. Duke, her Chihuahua fits the breed – loud – but also is a sweetheart.

Nikko, the Rottweiler, is a gentle giant who dislikes children with the exception of her son. One of her smaller dogs, Tootsie, the Shih Tzu, is the only inside dog of the family. Tootsie is the princess who enjoys wearing hair clips, dislikes other animals and would prefer the company

32 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

Just like children, pets need TLC, a nurturing environment and most importantly, attention, Pervez-Cruz says. of human beings, Pervez-Cruz says.

On any given day, Pervez-Cruz will set aside time during the day to feed the brood, exercise with them, and of course, do what most dog owners enjoy doing with their dogs – play with them.

“One of our favorite activities is playing fetch,” Pervez-Cruz says. “With that, all dogs – except the Shih Tzu – fetch after one ball. Also, it gives my son a chance to interact with the dogs by throwing the ball for them to fetch. “Although he doesn’t throw the ball far, he enjoys

watching the dogs play,” she adds.

Other than constant interaction with them and providing the dogs with food and shelter, they don’t require much else other than commitment, a sense of responsibility and love from their owners. Just like children, pets need TLC, a nurturing environment and most importantly, attention, Pervez-Cruz says.

Even with all their attentiongrabbing and entertaining antics, sometimes taking care of five dogs at once can be stressful – especially with their unique

personalities – but also rewarding. Having the dogs provides Pervez-Cruz’s family with companionship, teaches them responsibility, provides them with home security, and most importantly, provides the family with unconditional love.

“There are actually many benefits of having pets at home,” Pervez-Cruz says. “One benefit of having pets at home is how much joy the relationship of the owner and pet share together. A pet never judges us and they continue to love us in spite of our flaws and mistakes,” she adds.

Luckily for Yogi, Homer, Duke, Nikko and Tootsie, choosing to house all of them wasn’t a mistake. And of course, the five of them continue to love the Cruz family for that. ■

Pet Care | March 2011

By Norman Analista

Isla Veterinary A FULL-SERVICE PLACE FOR YOUR PETS No other clinic on Guam offers a wide array of services in one facility like Isla Veterinary in Asan. Your pet can get progressive, state of the art medical attention and other critical services from a staff of licensed, highly-trained and caring professionals, as well as outstanding quality products.

Isla Veterinary has been in business for about 10 years and was started by Dr. Rebecca Diaz in the Nelson Building on Snake Road. Dr. Lisa Silk took over the business four years ago and has since moved the operation to Asan so that they would have more room for dogs in their care to run and play.

The clinic offers expert grooming, doggy day care and boarding, and obedience training which are all managed by Dr. Silk’s husband, Brett.

The clinic’s pet shop comes fully stocked with brand name pet food, unique toys, leashes, and other useful supplies and accessories. Dr. Silk also offers house calls as well as herbal supplements to compliment traditional veterinary treatments. “My goal is to give the people of Guam the highest quality pet care possible and give honest and thorough information and education,” she explained. “There is no reason we

34 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

Dr. Lisa Silk (left) gets assistance from technician Stephanie Hubin (right) during a routine check-up.

cannot have the same level of medicine as anywhere else in the United States. The animals deserve it.”

Look out for Parasites Dr. Silk believes that one of the biggest issues pet owners on island need to be concerned about are parasites, which can wreak havoc. “These poor animals are bombarded with parasites that attack externally and internally… And, it isn’t just the primary parasites causing all the problems. Mosquitoes not only bite your pet, but they spread deadly heart worms.

Ticks carry organisms that are passed into the bloodstream that can cause bleeding and death if not treated.”

Vaccinations She said that it’s imperative that puppies and kittens get vaccinated every month until

they are four to five months old another local problem is with and that all pets are on Heart- Parvo, the often deadly intesguard and Frontline month- tinal virus in young puppies. ly to prevent Heartworm and Parvo is given with three to four tick diseases. They also need other viruses in one vaccine a yearly exam to make sure at monthly intervals for pupthere are no internal parasites pies and then yearly as adults.

Other viruses in the vaccine inor other health issues.

On Guam, the Rabies vaccine clude Distemper and Hepatitis.

Kittens get a vaccine monthis required by law as it is a fatal disease that can be transmitted ly every month until they are to humans. Dr. Silk said there is four to five months of age. The no treatment for Rabies should vaccine is a combination of a person be exposed to the upper respiratory and intestivirus. The first Rabies vaccina- nal viruses common in cats. Dr. tion is usually given at four to Silk said your veterinarian may five months of age and boost- choose to add different vacered one year later, and is then cines such as feline leukemia given every three years thereaf- or feline AIDS. “Feline AIDS is very, very common here on ter.

Due to the amount of stray, Guam. Since the vaccine does unvaccinated dogs on Guam, CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

Isla Veterinary Clinic is located on 222 Marine Corps Drive in Asan, next to Harley Davidson.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for tech appointments only.

You can call 477-7879 or for emergencies, 877-8226651.

Below: Kennel employee JJ Camacho, leads the dogs during play time.

DogGY Day Care DogGY DISCIPLINE

If for some reason you can’t watch over your child, you’d want to ensure that he or she was kept in a safe environment, had their basic necessities provided for, and wasn’t spending their time in an idle manner, right?

The same desire often proves true for pet owners. While we have day care services available to us, not many may know that such services are also available for pets in the event their owners are away at work or have to take a trip.

Isla Veterinary in Asan is the only facility on island to offer “Doggy Day Care," staffed by specially trained professionals.

The facility includes four large yards where your dog can get sufficient exercise as well as play with other companion canines.

As I take my seat and get ready to interview Brett Silk, a canine behavioral consultant and the owner of Dog Training Squad, he makes a quick comment. “I want to show you India,” he said.

Brett Silk, who manages the day care, offered just several of the numerous benefits that will arise from taking advantage of this service.

With the rise in dog thefts, you can have peace of mind knowing your trusted friend is in a safe environment.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

“OK,” I responded. After a couple of minutes, in walks this huge, majestic, brindle-colored dog who sat right beside him on command. “Would you like to meet her?,” he asked. “Sure,” I said cautiously, given India’s intimidating size. And again, upon Silk’s instruction - India, all 110 pounds of her comes up to me and licks my hand. After our brief introductions, Silk tells her to go to the corner behind me and for the duration of our 30-minute interview, she lay there quietly.

“Wow,” I thought to myself. Anyone who could direct this mammoth dog effortlessly - who I later

learned was a three-year-old, Rottweiler and Mastiff mixture to do what he wanted, obviously knows what he’s taking about.

Silk has over 35 years of experience training dogs and has successfully helped clients throughout the world including his native Australia, New Zealand, and England. By the time he was 26 years-old, he was regarded as the top dog trainer in Brisbane.

Over the years he has evaluated different methods for dog training and has incorporated the most proven, effective elements, into a

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

Pet Profile | March 2011

By Jill Espiritu

Owning an exotic cat Even unique pets illustrate the need for regular commitment Raised without any other feline companions for most of his life, Raza has the build, look, and personality to scare other cats. For his human companions, though, he’s just a plainold softie.

“With other cats, Raza is not social at all — he had been raised as the only cat in the household for almost all of his life,” says John Wise, who has taken over caring for Raza from his sisterin-law.

Once, a stray tomcat came within Raza’s range on the deck of Wise’s Santa Rita home.

Raza — bigger than most cats in Guam at almost 14 pounds — had the curious feline down, mauling it — with full claws out at the cat, Wise recollects.

Interestingly, it’s not only Raza’s upbringing that contributes to his initial standoffish-aggressive personality with other cats. Raza is a Bengal cat, which is a medium

36 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

pet Raza, he will actually smile.

The corners of his mouth curl up like he is smiling,” Wise adds.

Raza is about 14 years old, and Wise took him in over a year ago.

He joined Wise’s two other indoor cats, Chloe and Oreo. When Raza is in the house, he needs to be in a cage or on a leash, Wise says. Outdoors, Wise has him on a leash with a 15-foot range. In all, Wise has 12 cats — including the three indoor cats — and currently also has one dog.

Felines Raza (left) and Chloe (right) with their owners.

“They have feelings and they do know what love is. Overall, (my cats) are very relaxing. They provide fun companionship and some of their antics are unbelievable.” — John Wise to large domestic cat originating from crossings of the small Asian Leopard Cat to the domestic cat, creating a type of feline with an exotic look, but a domestic temperament, The International Bengal Cat Society (TIBCS) Web site states.

features include a more rounded ear shape compared to most domestic cats, large “nocturnal” eyes, and a wide nose with equal width from top to bottom, the TIBCS Web site states. Another distinguishing feature is its exotic coat and growl.

The Bengal cat is not related to the Bengal tiger, although some types have coats that may resemble the wildcat’s coat. The name is derived from the Asian Leopard Cat’s scientific name, Felis bengalensis, the AnimalWorld Web site states. Bengal cats range from seven pounds to as much as 20 pounds.

Raza’s coat is colored in two layers — a coat of exotic stripes and elongated dots and a golden sable color under the coat. As for Raza’s growl, it has been known to initially scare unsuspecting veterinarian assistants.

Some distinguishing physical

“He sounds mean, but is truly a pussycat,” Wise says. “You can pet him and pick him up — there’s no problem. When you

Wise and his wife Debbie set aside at least 30 minutes in the mornings and an hour in the evenings — on good days — to feed them and clean out litter boxes.

When Wise and his wife find time outside of their jobs and caring for the cats and dog, they enjoy scuba diving.

The cats come first, though. Instead of traveling to Palau at one point, the couple opted to use the money to build a fence at their house, so the animals would not need to be tied up outside the house, Wise says. Caring for so many cats is an ongoing responsibility, but rewarding. “[My advice for families looking to own pets] is to realize that they take love also, and your pet is not just an object,” Wise says. “They have feelings and they do know what love is. Overall, (my cats) are very relaxing. They provide fun companionship and some of their antics are unbelievable,” Wise adds.

It looks like Palau will have to wait for a while for the certified divers, as Raza and crew keep Wise and his wife occupied and entertained on a daily basis. ■

Bright Ideas | March 2011

By Deane Jessee Jones

How to help kids cope with the death of a pet Honesty, sensitivity, and compassion are paramount Last week my children and I were at the veterinarian’s office and the tech said our German Shepherd Gracie was in good shape and would probably live another 10 years.

My daughter, Jenna, was with me and quickly calculated this in her head. As we were leaving, in a concerned voice she asked, “Mom, so do you think Gracie will really die when I am 22?

That would be bad, because I won’t be there to say goodbye. I might be in college.” Seeing her concern, I reassured her that the tech wasn’t giving Gracie a death sentence, but instead saying she would live for many more years.

In our house, we have had many pets come and go. We have had various fish, six dogs, 10 cats, and three guinea pigs.

They became part of the family and their absence affects everyone. Overcoming the loss can take time. For many children their first experience with death will be the loss of the family pet.

I know for my children it was.

The right age How you handle the situation depends on how old the child is. Children between the age of three and six years old will not understand the permanence of death and will be confused about why the pet is not returning. You may have to explain to them that when the pet dies it won’t be coming back. It is not uncommon for them to need to have this repeated several times or to believe that the pet will wake up and return. Parents should honestly and compassionately answer their children’s

38 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

questions about death, but now is not a time for scientific or detailed medical explanations.

Avoid saying things like, “he went to sleep” or is “away on a journey.” This could lead to fears about sleeping or traveling. Children between the ages of seven to nine years old will have a better grasp of the permanence of death. But it is not until about nine years, that your child will be developmentally able to fully understand what death means.

closure It is important for everyone to have some closure for their loss.

For some families this means a special funeral or ceremony in honor of the pet. Some children like drawing pictures or making scrap books of favorite pets. Sometimes writing a letter to the pet or just discussing the good times can be helpful in overcoming the loss. You could plant a tree near the grave site or if cremated put the ashes in a special urn. We had a mango tree in Saipan that for many years became the grave site for pets that died.

emotional turmoil Children will experience similar

emotions to the loss as adults. It is normal for them to be in denial, to get upset, angry, or to be sad. My kids liked to carry around rocks from the grave; this gave them some comfort in knowing they had some part of the pet with them. They may be jealous of friends that have pets or blame themselves for their pet’s death. Reassure the child that they did not cause the death. It can be helpful for you to share your emotions in the situation and model the grieving process. Remember everyone will go through the process at their own rate, and with adolescents, they may be quiet and seem unaffected when in reality they are upset. Be there when they are ready to talk, but don’t force a conversation they are not ready to have.

having a new pet and are asking for one, it is probably okay to add a new pet to the family.

Signs that the child may be having trouble recovering from the loss would be: a lack of desire to do activities they used to enjoy, headaches or stomach aches, regressing to behaviors like bed wetting or thumb sucking. If this is occurring, it may be helpful for them to speak with a counselor.

don't replace a pet right away

Death is a part of living. Our pets, our loyal companions, give us an opportunity to recognize and accept this. They do not fear death anymore than they question their days. They just live. This great lesson, that each day is precious and we need to surround ourselves with unconditional love, is perhaps their greatest legacy to us and our children. ■

One of the common questions is how soon should you replace the pet. You should not rush out and get a new pet. This might upset the child and cause them to resent the new animal or even be mean to it. Generally, when the child has reached the point they can openly talk about

Death can be a scary thing, and often the loss of the pet can bring back other losses such as the loss of a grandparent or friend. In these cases, a little extra support may be necessary.

Deane Jessee-Jones lives with her husband, Jay and three children: Jake, Jenna, and Jeremy in Mangilao. She works as an Educational Therapist and Consultant for Brain Builders Guam and Saipan. Send questions or comments to: brainbuilding@gmail.com. For more information on training programs available in Guam and Saipan go to: http://guam.processingskills.com.

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Pet Care | March 2011

A MATTER OF DOGGIE DISCIPLINE: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

special system he developed. He calls it “Voice Control.”

Whereas some methods employ the use of physical force, or treats, he has created a vocal way to effectively communicate with canines in a way they can relate to.

By employing “Voice Control," he is able to direct and lead. And this knowledge is something he has passed on to his many clients. To someone unfamiliar with Silk, his advice may seem unconventional, or downright unusual. “The other day, across the street there were barking dogs and I growled at them to make them stop. Someone saw me, and they were like, what are you doing?,” he explained with a laugh.

I’ve seen Silk in action myself and was amazed. We took a stroll through his facility where there were a couple dozen dogs in kennels. I was amazed at how relaxed and quiet they were. That was of course, except for a couple snappy Chihuahas who started barking as we approached them. With a growl to “correct” them, Silk immediately silenced them.

Excessive barking, is just one

Brett Silk and India.

example of a problem many pet owners may encounter. Silk has the expertise to help clients with a wide range of other behavioral issues. Whether it’s housebreaking, sibling rivalry, separation anxiety, aggression issues, or something else, he can help you understand the communication patterns of canines so you may effectively deal with situations, preventing them from escalating into bigger problems.

For example, some people may think it’s ok to hit or even pick up their dog when the pet has done something wrong. This physical response, however, can lead to a point where the canine can get fed up and retaliate with a bite, when

this type of reaction has never been exhibited before.

According to Silk, dog owners can easily become “owned” by their dogs instead. Canines naturally have great perception skills and can read body language and human behavior well. They can capitalize on submissive gestures, or sense subordinate qualities in their owners and take advantage of them.

Since every dog is unique, they may have behavioral problems specific to them, so there’s not one universal solution. Silk will go through a step by step process with dog owners and other members of the family so that they don’t feel intimidated by the process. He believes his system is so effective that if done properly, a dog can pick up commands in as little as 30 seconds!

If your canine companion, instead of you, seems to be running your household. Or, you want to prevent things from getting even close to this situation, now is the time to give Brett at the Dog Training Squad a call at 488-DOGS (3647). His office is located in the Isla Veterinary in Asan. The number there is 477-7879. ■

ISLA VETERINARY | A PLACE FOR PETS: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

not work very well, I advise people to try to keep their cats indoors. These viruses are spread by close contact with other cats, especially through fighting,” said Dr. Silk.

Warning Signs There are some external warning signs that your pet may need professional medication, and you should watch for them.

These include a decrease in activity or appetite, the gums or tongue will look pale instead of a healthy pink, loss of weight or hair, coughing, sneezing, vomiting and diarrhea. “Conversely, if your pet is drinking more, this can also be a sign of kidney problems, diabetes, or poisoning,” Dr. Silk added. ”Check your dog or cat everyday…Changes can be early signs of serious dis40 THE HIGH ROAD MARCH 2011

eases and catching these early may mean the difference to their survival.”

Social Interaction and Attention Dr. Silk also emphasizes that pets need a lot of social interaction and care, not just the basic necessities like food and shelter. “When you adopt a pet into your family, you become their pack members… they need love and attention just as much as we do. As with humans, neglecting the social needs of our pets can lead to mental and physical problems.”

A love for animals Dr. Silk grew up on a farm and has worked with animals her entire life so it should come as no surprise that she would one day become a veterinarian. Right after graduating from high school, she studied to become a licensed technician and

worked in veterinary clinics to pay for veterinary school. She has practiced as a veterinarian for 13 years now and has worked all over the mainland in states like Oklahoma, Oregon, Idaho, Washington and Colorado. Dr. Silk also has a degree in Western Herbal Medicine and will soon be certified in Chinese Herbal Medicine. Her additional training has allowed her to offer a holistic approach towards treating her patients.

Dr. Silk and Brett met in Colorado. In need of some sun, and because Guam was geographically closer to Brett’s family, the Silks made a compromise to settle on island. “Since Colorado was a bit too cold for Brett the Aussie, we decided to take an adventure to warmer climates. I am not a fan of poisonous snakes, spiders, fish and so forth, so I vetoed the living in Australia plan,” she explained with a smile. ■

DoGGY Day Care: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

Dogs can learn to become more sociable which will, in turn, make them more pleasant to be around. “We can correct excessive barking or any unusual behavior,” said Silk, who has been a canine behavioral consultant for over 35 years. “We can also teach them to be around people and not to care about other dogs.”

When pets are left at home, they’ll often sleep and by the time their owners get home, they’ll have an abundance of energy.

Conversely, when owners come home, they’ll often feel drained.

The difference in moods and desire to interact with each other can often lead to stressful situations. If a dog is left at day care, however, they’ll get the proper amount of activity so that when it’s time to go home, both owner and pet have a higher chance of retreating to a relaxing evening.

Doggie day care starts at just $13 per dog, per day. Day care hours of operation start an hour earlier from Veterinary hours, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Sundays are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ■

Publisher’s Note: “Live Easy” by Leo Babauta, “See Clearly”

by Peter Lombard, M.D., “Ask the Bone Doctor” with Sean Fitzsimmons, M.D., and Carlo Carino’s “Editor’s note” will resume next month.

To track Carino’s current progress in his publicized “100-Pound Challenge," visit www.itsjustcarlo.com