• Emergency & Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Oncology, Physical Rehabilitation, Radiology, and Surgery All in One Facility
• Advanced Diagnostic Tools including CT, MRI, and Ultrasound
• Compassionate Approach to Medicine
MEET OUR SURGICAL TEAM
Our highly skilled surgical team is led by two board-certi ed surgeons: Dr. Chi-Ya Chen and Dr. Kathryn Pitt.
▪ Dr. Chen specializes in both orthopedic and soft tissue surgery.
▪ Dr. Pitt focuses on soft tissue procedures with advanced expertise in cancer-related surgeries.
Both doctors have a special interest in minimally invasive, camera-assisted techniques designed to reduce pain and shorten healing time.
Working alongside a team of highly trained veterinary technicians, Dr. Chen and Dr. Pitt deliver advanced, compassionate surgical care.
With 24-hour hospitalized support and access to cutting-edge surgical technology, your pet will receive the highest standard of care throughout their entire procedure.
Chi-Ya Chen BVetMed, MS, DACVS
Mohawk Solid Tech R offers high performance vinyl flooring for lifetime beauty. PVC-free and made from recycled plastic. Scratch-proof. Flood-proof.
Wellness Exams • Vaccines • Ultrasounds
Acupuncture • Eastern Medicine
Exotics • Cold Laser • Cardiology
PennHIP Certified • Shockwave Therapy
Real Time Pathology
Locally Owned
Open 7 Days a Week
Open late Monday til 8pm (808) 395-2302
With over 100 years of combined experience
Eric Ako DVM
Kirsten Jensen BVMS
Ann Sakamoto DVM
Jordan Bader DVM
John Kaya DVM
Leianne Lee Loy DVM
Tanner, recent RVT grad & Lolli P.
Hawaii Veterinary Vision Care
Ophthalmic
Ophthalmic
Publishers John B. Harmon III
Island Dog Magazine is published quarterly in February, May, August and November and distributed on Oahu at select pet stores, veterinary clinics, and other retail establishments including:
Safeway: Beretania Longs: Kahala, Kapolei, Pearlridge Times Supermarket: Aiea, Kahala, Kaimuki, Kalihi, King Street, Liliha, Mililani Hardware Hawaii: Kailua
Aloha indeed! Aloha to the return of Football (Go UH!); aloha to shorter, cooler days, which means we don’t have to walk our dogs before 8 in the morning; and aloha to the beginning of the Holiday Season with Hallowieners. Which, not coincidentally, is the name of resident artist John Pritchett’s Cartoon du Jour. Have a safe one, if not particularly sane…
This issue is replete with the fun, macabre, eerie, and downright fascinating, and we are grateful you’ve joined us for it!
Our little tale begins innocently enough with two very sweet looking pups enjoying the beach, shot by astounding lenswoman Sue Chipperton. Their bios seem nice, too, but their names are Zelda & Link, as in the video game “The Legend of…” so there is much more to their adventures than meets the eye.
Next comes the lurid bevy of barkers in our Da Kine Canine Gallery that will leave you howling for more. Arooooo! Plus, next issue will feature the extra “All Dressed Up” photo roundup, so you'll be needing to send us two pics, yes? Yes!
John bestows two morbid stories that revolve around sickness and death: How dogs who have cancer are helping to develop treatment regimes for humans (Ok, not morbid. Kinda nice, actually.), and 6 things he learned when his dog died (Ha! The very definition of morbid)!
All this, plus our “Nuggets” returning from the dead and our 10th Annual Oahu Pet Services Directory helping you find the right pet professional in your neighborhood (if you can handle their scary prices), makes for a fine bowl of candy to ponder indeed, whilst waiting for more wholesome holiday fare.
As always, we are grateful for the kindness of your attention to our little dog rag in this most digital of ages, and for haunting the establishments of our advertisers. Tell ‘em boo for us!
Woofs & Wags
John & Carol
CYNOCLUB
Zelda & Link
Meet our two border collies Zelda and Link, named after characters from The Legend of Zelda video game.
Zelda is 10 years old and a mountain girl! When she was younger, she enjoyed agility. These days, when she’s not stopping to sniff every plant on a walk or hike, she is rooting around in the garden trying to eat all of the fruits and veggies when her parents aren’t looking. Zelda loves people and wants nothing more than to be next to you or at your feet. She’s very communicative—letting you know what’s on her mind, which is usually about how to get more treats!
Link is a total beach boy! He’s 8 years old and obsessed with water. He loves to swim in the ocean, show the sprinklers who’s boss, and whip his rope toy around in the rain. For all his love of water, he sure does hate baths! Indoors, Link loves to watch the Hawaii fishing channel, basketball games, and shows with horses. He is athletic, protective, and very cuddly. Despite being 50 pounds, he will lay on top of you or insist on being the little spoon during a nap.
— Amy and Ricky Uy
Zelda in her garden
Link shows the hose who’s boss.
Mr. Bear
Otto & Hamish
Zeke & Sasha
Mochi
Bailey & Breeze
Daisy
Kama & Kolo
to the last lick!
Lulu, Kai & Kinako
In Loving Memory
Guido 15 years old Blind, hard of hearing & fighting cancer
In Loving Memory
Chili Pepper
Missy on her 4th
Lola
Layla, Pua & Prince
Pinky
Boba
Miso
Gus Gus
Jojo ❤
Koa
Maisy
Kiyomi Doug
Alohi
Pomai Franklin Kai
Braddah
Loving Memory Nami
Chewie & Eddie
Loving Memory Zoe
In
Daygo
Koko Manbok 9th Birthday
Sassy at Bellows
Mahina & Kinako
Hachi
Yumi
Finn
❤
Loving Memory Pookaloo
Maple Syrup
Great Escape Artist Shiba/Chihuahua/ Terrier
Chloe
Miso
Mr. Bell
Gigi & Pono
Mikala
Mari & Kuma
Rina
Leia
Liko
Cooper Island Dog Cover Boy Winter 2024 Happy 3rd Birthday!
Cooper: “Love eyes for Mom.”
Jacky Chan
Nimue
Liko & Cooper
Molly & her doorstopper friend
Sweetie
Woody
Zoe Nicole
Caramel & Sundae
Camo
Tiny 14 years young
Case Study: Adopting Agression
With so many dogs in need of forever homes, adoption is becoming an increasingly popular way to acquire the furry new addition to your family. Most people imagine walking down rows of dogs with begging eyes and happy-wagging tails to end up with The One!
PATIENTS: Peter & Miles—Two male poi dogs. One year old siblings from same litter, rescued from a shelter at 6 months old.
SYMPTOMS: Attacking and biting kids, new people, general unpredictable aggression. Bite History: Five bite incidents to children in four months since adoption; escaping from home and going to neighbors to attack children.
DIAGNOSIS: We discovered that the two dogs had been rescued from a pack of strays and were kept together as a Bonded Pair (according to the rescue organization). Using Applied/Functional Behavioral Analysis during our initial evaluation and following sessions, we were able to identify a severe Fearful/Aggressive reaction to children and people, in addition to erratic behaviors. Combined with a Genetic Predisposition to Fearful Reactive Aggression, we had a pretty serious case. But with a dedicated family and owners, anything is possible!
SOLUTION: With COVID restrictions, our potential owners had to communicate with the Rescue remotely. Then without ever meeting them, the shelter assigned dogs based on their requests. Because the Rescue insisted that these two dogs be adopted together, my clients went home with two dogs instead of one. Unfortunately, the dogs actually exacerbated each other’s stress/aggressive behaviors, making it more difficult to cope with any perceived threat. We worked together for 18 hours, teaching the owners how to
read the dogs’ body language to predict potential fear/stressors, and systematically building each dog’s confidence and coping mechanisms with their triggers and their new family!
The key component in this case? The extreme dedication and vigilance of the family and owners to the process. Without their commitment, the following success wouldn’t have been possible!
Starting out, both dogs were using Baskerville muzzles for safety, but by the end of our sessions, we were not only able to remove the muzzles completely andengage in affiliative play, but both dogs’ aggressive tendencies were reduced to near non-existent. To this day there have been no more bite incidents and the muzzles are no longer required to maintain a safe and secure rescue pack. With increased confidence and solidarity with their new forever family, this Aggressive Case got bitten in the butt early! Great Work!
Struggling with a dog who has aggressive behaviors, a bite history, or any other behavioral challenges? I love helping dog owners develop a more accurate view of your dog’s behaviors, mind and motivations in order to modify unwanted behaviors. Call, email, or check us out on Instagram @APetPerspective!
One Big Happy Family. Sean sits with Peter & Miles and their dedicated family.
Best Friends, Better Science
BY JOHN HARMON
YComparative Oncology: Studying dogs to fight cancer in humans
ou know we love dogs. We know you love dogs. They live in our homes, exercise with us, often eat some of the same foods, and even share the couch (and sometimes the bed)! But did you know that this is exactly what makes them ideal for testing new therapies for cancer?
Dogs develop most of the same cancers as we do, and, much the same as living shorter lives than humans, they develop them faster. This results in quicker development of new drug combinations for treatment and even prevention of cancers, while giving the animals in the program cutting edge care. The work falls under the umbrella of comparative oncology, the study of naturally occurring cancers in animals as models for human disease.
The problem with lab rats, for example, is the fact that their immune systems have to be lowered so that cancer cells can be introduced. The rats are then injected with therapy drugs to see what (if any) effect they will have on the cancer.
The dogs in the clinical trials are different. They already have the disease, and their body is already trying to fight
it. So when they are given treatments— often with medicines that are also used on humans—their reaction is a true test of effectiveness. Plus, markers for cancer often show up in blood before forming tumors, which may eventually allow researchers the opportunity to work ahead of the most dire circumstances.
In 2018 when Sandy, a 9 year old golden retriever from Pennsylvania, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma—a fast-moving and aggressive bone cancer—her family was heartbroken. The typical treatment plan was devastating: amputation of the front leg and chemotherapy, with a life expectancy of just one year. But Sandy’s story didn’t end there. Instead, it became part of a ground-breaking clinical trial at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine, or Penn Vet, that’s rewriting what’s possible—not just for dogs, but for people, too.
Following her amputation, Sandy received a novel immunotherapy: a vaccine based on Listeria monocytogenes designed to train her immune system to fight remaining cancer cells after surgery. The results? As Sandy’s family shared
SANJA GRUJIC
on CBS’s 60 Minutes in 2022, “That was four years ago.” She was still happy, active, and cancer-free.
Sandy is far from alone. Cancer is the leading cause of death in senior dogs, and every year, thousands of canines in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancers that closely resemble human forms of the disease—like osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and melanoma. Leading the charge at Penn Vet is Dr. Nicola J. Mason, a board-certified veterinary internist and immunologist who has become a national figure in the development of CAR T-cell therapy for dogs with B-cell lymphoma.
“Dogs develop many of the same cancers as humans and respond in similar ways to treatment,” says Dr. Mason. “Because they share our homes and our environment, their disease progression offers an incredibly relevant model for human oncology.”
Dr. Mason and her team are also closely involved in the Pre-Medical Cancer Immunotherapy Network (PCIN)—a program that gives undergraduate students exposure to real-world cancer immunotherapy research early in their education. For these students, the opportunity to participate in such cutting-edge, crossspecies work can be life-changing.
At Penn Vet’s Ryan Veterinary Hospital family dogs receive care that rivals top human cancer centers. Students assist with research, observe treatment plans, and even participate in vaccine development efforts for canine patients enrolled in clinical trials.
Penn Vet’s work continues to grow, and the team regularly posts new opportunities for clinical trials in dogs with naturally occurring cancers. While there’s no trial site in Hawaii at the moment, local veterinarians can help connect interested families with research hospitals on the mainland. And as programs like PCIN expand, there’s hope that more regional partnerships—including in the Pacific— may emerge.
As for Sandy, her story is a living testament to what happens when science and compassion align. She’s not just a survivor—she’s a pioneer. Her journey helped validate a treatment that has now entered human trials, offering new hope to children and adults facing bone cancer.
Because in the end, dogs like Sandy aren’t just helping us feel better—they’re helping us get better. And in return, we’re doing everything we can to give them the healthy, happy lives they deserve.
LEARN MORE:
Watch The Cancer Pioneers, an episode from Shelter Me, available to stream on PBS.org. This episode also delves into the human clinical trials.
CBS/60 MINUTES
On 60 Minutes, 2022: (l-r) Dr. Nicola Mason at Penn Vet, Sandy and her owner Matt Olson, and Anderson Cooper.
Proactive Care for Senior Pets
Case Study: Minnie
By Rachael Lau, DVM
Asour pets age, routine screening becomes more crucial to their health. For senior pets, like Minnie—a 9-year-old Shih Tzu—this includes blood, urine, and imaging tests (X-rays, Ultrasound, or CT scans). These screenings help catch diseases early, potentially extending their life and improving their quality of life.
Minnie had her senior screening, which included chest and abdomen X-rays, as well as blood and urine tests. While her bloodwork came back normal, she had been experiencing intermittent vomiting and mild weight loss. The X-rays revealed a mass in her stomach, which explained her symptoms. To stage the disease and to aid in surgery planning, we followed up with a CT scan. Thankfully, the CT showed no sign of cancer spread.
The surgery to remove the mass was a success, and it was found to be benign. Post-op, Minnie recovered quickly. Her energy returned, her
Dr. Rachael Lau and Minnie. Routine X-ray screening revealed a mass in her stomach. A CT confirmed the diagnosis and no spread of disease. The mass was successfully removed with no further complications, saving Minnie’s life.
vomiting stopped, and her appetite improved. She regained the weight she had lost. If the mass had been left untreated, it could have grown too large to be removed easily, possibly causing bleeding and worsening vomiting.
This is a perfect example of how routine screening and early intervention can make a world of difference. Minnie now has a new lease on life, and her story underscores the importance of proactive care for senior pets.
nuggets
VERC Goes Fear Free
Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center (VERC) is currently the only Fear Free Certified Practice on Oahu. Fear Free is a training and certification program that helps veterinary teams reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in pets during visits. It focuses on things like low-stress handling, calming environments, and making the experience more positive overall. VERC has trained their entire team and implemented hospital-wide changes to support more compassionate care. It has made a significant difference for nervous or sensitive patients. More at www.fearfree.com.
Celebrities and their Pets Fashion Show 2025
The Al Waterson Celebrities and their Pets Fashion Show returns to the Young at Heart Expo with over 60 celebrities walking the runway holding their own pets or adoptable dogs from the Hawaiian Humane Society. The show will be emceed by Jordan Segundo (news anchor WSVN7 Miami, Florida). Isle Style Pets Clothing will provide pet attire. Stop by the Expo at the Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall—12 noon on Saturday, September 27. Admission is free. Presented by Al Waterson and You.
Hotel Towels Repurposed
On July 16, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort donated over 500 gently used towels to the Hawaiian Humane Society (HHS). The donation of 40 boxes was delivered with the help of ALSCO. A bark out to Hilton Hawaiian Village for their ongoing annual initiative to repurpose used towels and linens to support sustainability and waste reduction and for providing comfort to animals awaiting adoption at HHS.
Hawai‘i Bully Showdown
Bully lovers will converge at Hawaii’s only bully sanctioned show on September 20 at the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Ewa Beach. International Bully Kennel Club shows at 2 and 6pm. www.hawaiibullyshowdown.com IG @hawaiibullyshowdown
In late 2024, Mila, a 4-year old Belgian Malinois, got loose from her home, and died along Farrington Highway after being hit by a car. She was not collared at the time but was microchipped. Unfortunately, she was not scanned and her owners, active duty Army couple Patricia Corpuz and Cole Smith were never notified. Her body was disposed of at the Waimanalo Gulch
Landfill. The couple learned of Mila’s demise through a community Facebook group, leaving them devastated with no closure, and many questions. Their cause was taken up by Rep. Darius Kila (D, Nanakuli-Maili), who introduced House Bill HB667—the Mila Microchip Identification Act. It was signed into law by Governor Green on May 27, 2025. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has procured the necessary equipment and will scan deceased dogs and cats found on public roadways for microchips. DOT will make every effort to notify owners. This serves as a reminder to keep your pet’s microchip contact information up to date.
the Hotel Dog
Yappy Hour at the Surfjack
Yappy Hour with Jack & Friends is a monthly petfriendly event held on the fourth Saturday of each month from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Waikiki. The get-together features a variety of dog-friendly activities, pup treats, goodies and pop-ups from local vendors. Each event will spotlight different pet-friendly themes or initiatives with proceeds often supporting local animal rescue organizations. Yappy Hour is slated to continue through the end of this year. For more information, visit https://surfjack.com or follow on IG:@surfjackhotel.
Rescue Dog Inspires Krypto
L-R: Ozu, director James Gunn’s naughty rescue and inspiration for Superman’s canine sidekick Krypto.
Superman featured the debut of his dog, Krypto on the big screen. According to director James Gunn on IG: “Krypto was inspired by our dog Ozu, who we adopted shortly after I started writing Superman. Ozu came from a hoarding situation in a backyard. He immediately came in and destroyed our home, our shoes, our furniture—he even ate my laptop. It took a long time before he would even let us touch him. I remember thinking, ‘Gosh, how difficult would life be if Ozu had superpowers?’ —and thus Krypto came into the script and changed the shape of the story as Ozu was changing my life. Btw, Ozu today, is, fairly often, a very good boy.”
Jack,
IG/JAMES GUNN
WARNER BROS.
NOLA Pet Services
May Qualify for
HOW IT WORKS:
■ Check Your Eligibility at face4pets.org/apply: Your pet must be in need of emergency care and must have a good prognosis with treatment.
■ Request for Financial Assistance (RFA): If you meet the eligibility requirements for funding, you will need to complete the RFA online application
■ You Will Be Notified Regarding Your Grant Status: If your application is approved, FACE will assign an amount for your grant, which will be paid directly to the veterinary hospital
FACE Hawaii provides financial grants for emergency and life-saving veterinary care for qualified pets and their owners in need of assistance.
O‘ahu Pet Services Directory (August 2025-August 2026)
A Handy Listing of Folks and Businesses who provide services that are needed and desired by us, the dog owners of O‘ahu. Services are listed by geographic area to make it easier to find services near home or work.
Street addresses are not included as most establishments will require a preliminary call or online registration.
These listings are not a recommendation. It is up to you, the consumer, to choose carefully by asking questions that are important to you and your dog.
Highlighted listings are Island Dog advertisers who make this publication possible. Please tell ’em we sent ya! Mahalo!
Listing information may change without notice and will not be updated until the next publication date in August, 2026. Available online: IslandDogMagazine.com Resources
BOARDING & DAYCARE
HONOLULU
WEST TO NORTH SHORE
Da
Kama‘aina
WINDWARD
DOG WALKING
GROOMING
CITY
WEST TO NORTH SHORE
Doggie Due Diligence
Whether you’re looking for a groomer, pet care professional or trainer, make time to research and have a list of questions ready. Websites and social media can provide insight into business philosophy. Mention any special needs your dog may have. Ask for references. If applicable ask if licensed, bonded and insured, and about contingency plans in case of emergency or natural disaster. Don’t wait until the last minute; as a new client it may take extra time to set up and schedule a new account.
Pet care services can book up quickly, especially during busy holiday seasons. Your dog should be up-to-date on vaccinations and monthlies.
GROOMING
HONOLULU
Beauty Salon for Doggies
Kapahulu 808-371-8376
Doggie Smile Salon & Spa
Manoa 808-382-2702
Doggy Box 808-983-9553
Kakaako
Honolulu Dog Spa 808-626-5865
Johnny’s Dog Spa
Ala Moana 808-942-7952
K-9 Style 808-523-3333
Liliha
The Itchy Pooch Salon
Honolulu 808- 445-2631
Lokahi Dog Grooming Manoa 808-382-8644
Wan Wan Paradise 808-589-2288
Kakaako
Yuppie Puppie Grooming Salon
Salt Lake 808-839-1158
KAIMUKI, KAHALA, HAWAII KAI
Dog Salon Kahala 808-729-5122
Kahala Ad on pg. 22
Live.Love.Pet! 808-734-8282
Kaimuki
New Breeze Dog Salon
Kaimuki 808-735-6000
Pacific Paws Pet Salon
Aina Haina 808-735-9334
WINDWARD
Delicata Dog Grooming Enchanted Lake 808-343-6664
Doggone Groomers
Kaneohe 808-236-7000
Kailua Pets
Kailua 808-861-3796
The Dog Shop, LLC
Kailua 808-262-8804
MOBILE GROOMERS
Island Mobile Groomer
Kailua to Kahala 808-383-8332
Kailua Paw Patrol 808-385-0343 Windward Oahu
PET SITTING
WEST TO NORTH SHORE
Aloha Professional Pet Sitters LLC Waikele - Kapolei 808-286-0497 NOLA Pet Services Island wide nolapetservices.com 214-240-5878 Ad on pg. 44
HONOLULU
Malu Pet Bliss 808-232-1585
Kakaako to Kahala
Tara’s Dog Services East Honolulu 808-392-6619
Waikiki Wags 808-384-6004 Honolulu WINDWARD
Hound & Home Pet Care
Kailua 808-272-0482
Kailua Pet Sitters, Inc. Kailua 808-721-8318
Wag-A-Long Pet Sitting Kailua 808-366-6681
ENCHANTED LAKE
I’ve had dogs all my life, and saying goodbye is never easy. Unconditional love is what makes the grief so real. The heartbreak and yearning can be overwhelming. It is also a teaching moment. When our beloved pets die, we learn how to cope. How to mourn. And we learn, if we’re lucky, how to love again. So how do you know when it’s time? I can only share my experiences, and you are welcome to take any help and solace that you can find.
Lesson One: My first dog, Tuffy, was a large boxer that preceded my own entry into our family. One of my earliest memories is of riding on his back as a very small child. He was big and strong, but unfortunately no match for the behemoth Detroit steel prowling the roads of America in the fifties. The loss was devastating and immediate for our family. But he was just gone, taken without our having to decide the timing. This was Lesson One: The feelings are real, whether we are making end of life decisions or not.
Lesson Two: My next great dog was a dachshund named Duchess. She greeted me coming home from school, saw to it I finished my homework before tossing the ball with her in the back yard, and slept at my feet in the bed. She, too, was hit by a car, but rolled under it after impact, suffering multiple breaks to her right rear leg. Luckily our next door neighbor was a vet, so he took in Duchess and placed a steel
6 Things I Learned When My Dog Died
BY JOHN HARMON
pin in her leg from her hip to her ankle. For the rest of her life she ran on three legs, dropping the fourth with a rhythmic tap of the ground to keep her balance. It didn’t seem to slow her down much.
And when it was time to go, I was saddened, but I knew she was lucky to have gotten an extra eight years of a very good life. So that was Lesson Two: Remember the blessings bestowed by and to your dog, and be grateful.
Lesson Three: Fast forward a few decades to Sparky. He was a fun little mini schnauzer, and our son’s protector. He also had a never-ending skin condition that caused him some itching and loss of fur, and help was not as available in the eighties. It’s one of the reasons Carol and I started Island Dog Magazine—to help dog lovers make better informed decisions.
It’s said “When he stops eating, it’s time.” But Sparky never stopped eating. Or pooping. Or peeing. He just stopped being Sparky. His days were spent mostly sleeping, getting up for dinner or when called outside to do his business. When we finally decided it was his time, I took him to the Humane Society and bawled my eyes out. Lesson Three: Sometimes you just have to make
Luminaria courtesy Arms of Aloha
the call. And when I watched my mom fight dementia for years before she died, I sorta knew how it was going to play out. I thank my dad for his loving care for her until her death, and Sparky for teaching me how to be respectful and understanding.
Lesson Four: I learned something more from the sorrow so great it took half a year to get up the courage to love a new dog. Lesson Four: Get Two! If you can afford it, that is. And spread out the ages, so you’re never dogless. We got three…
Lesson Five: But we lost two during the pandemic. Fourteen year old Aiko went in for a routine procedure, but when she was under anesthesia the doc found a large mass in her throat. Cancer. Inoperable. “I would just let her go now,” he said. But of course, we couldn’t. Sure, she was eating and drinking slower, but she still liked her walks and hiking on her trail, although that was slower too.
So she had a very good extra week, and then after a short walk, she was unable to catch her breath. I cooled her down, kept her quiet, but she trembled and panted for hours. We had to take her to the vet at 2am and say goodbye in the parking lot because of covid. It was terrible.
I still wonder if I could have done better—walked slower, walked shorter, even carried her at 40 pounds! But I have to focus on that extra week (and her whole life) as a boon. Lesson Five: Give yourself a break. If you’ve done the best you can with what you knew at the time, that’s an Attaboy! Even if it feels like doo doo. Let it go.
Lesson Six: Then we were down to two—Tina, our rescue Chi/Terr, and Arthur, our Lab/Golden. And Tina just cratered. This time, however, we are able to engage Arms of Aloha’s Dr. Carolyn Naun, a vet who specializes in helping pets and people say goodbye to their life together. This made the whole process easier for us. She died in our arms at home.
But it was Arthur who gave us the gift of Lesson Six: Dying is a natural part of life. He knew it was Tina’s time. He always checked in with her, but one day he sniffed around and stopped. He stayed close and was quiet. And we saw it coming; the light had gone out of her eyes. He shed no tears. So neither did we. Much.
Lesson Seven(Bonus!): And so I leave you with Lesson 7: We are always honored when you share a photo of your now-deceased dog, and we embellish it with a little red heart and the words, “In Loving Memory” in our Da Kine Canine Photo Gallery. Your bestie may be gone, but will never be forgotten. ❤
Aiko, our sublime Lab/Shar Pei passed in 2020, just two weeks shy of her 15th birthday.
Our then 7 year old Lab/ Golden, Arthur with 16 year old Tina, shortly before she passed in 2021.
Arthur was lonesome after losing his two big sisters. So we adopted Merlin in 2022.
1992: Sparky with Carol, JB and John Harmon.
Gifts& Sniffs
Holiday
Water Dog Safety
Bay Dog Monterey Bay Life Jackets will give you peace of mind. Canine life jacket features stabilizers to keep your dog upright with his head above the waterline. Full body support. Available in high visibility pink or yellow with reflective trim. Available at the Pet Depot in Ewa Beach.
Hot Dogs Mug
For coffee/tea drinking dog lovers, a 16 oz. porcelain mug by Rifle Paper Co. Charming illustrations with gilded rim and handle. Handwash; not microwave safe. At anthropologie.com.
Recklessly Crunchy Dog Treats
Crunchy O’s: Light, crunchy low calorie treats by fromm. Perfect for training.
8 Flavors: Pumpkin Kran POW, Peanut Butter Jammers, Banana Klabammas, Blueberry Blasts, Pot Roast Punchers, Smokin CheesePlosions, Bacon Blasters and Slammon Smoked Salmon. Available at Koolau Pets; Windward Mall, Kaneohe.
Custom Cookie Cutter
Personalized pet portrait cookie cutter. Handcrafted using a photo you provide. Made with durable, foodsafe plastic. Perfect for cookie dough, fondant, clay, and crafts. By BakersStreetCutters at etsy.com.
YoPup Frozen Yogurt
A frozen yogurt cup dog treat with protein and probiotics to support digestion and immunity. Pumpkin & Bacon, Banana & Peanut Butter and Apple & Cheddar. By TBD Brands. At Petsmart stores.
Canine Howloweeners
By Rubie’s Pet Shop: Experiment 626 Stitch Dog hooded costume. This and much more at Petsmart stores or online at petsmart.com.
Let’s Talk Turkey
Elevate the treat experience with 100% natural GoGo Turkey Tendons. Sourced from top-tier human grade farms in the USA. Available at Paw Hana Supply in Aiea.
For the Princess Pooch
Official Disney design
Princess Cinderella Costume. Size Small and Medium. Wig included! Amazon.com.
Disaster Preparedness
Hurricane season runs from June through November. In the event of evacuation be ready with a pet disaster preparedness kit. Shelters do not stock supplies.
What to Bring to an Emergency Shelter
• Pet crate/carrier large enough for your pet to stand and turn around.
• 14 day supply of food and water plus bowls
• Medication/Pet First Aid Kit and veterinary information and records
• Identification ID tag on a collar, microchipping and current photo. Microchip should be up-to-date with current contact information.
• Collar and leash/harness
• A comforting toy, bedding, treats and towel
• Cat litter in containers and litter pan
• Hygiene, grooming and sanitation supplies
Don’t leave your pets behind! If you don’t feel safe in your home, neither will your pet. If evacuation is not necessary and you can shelter in place, keep pets inside away from wind, noise and breaking glass and/or in a crate.
Oahu’s Pet-Friendly Shelters
All Oahu evacuation shelters are considered pet-friendly. Monitor local media and official social media sites for specifics and updates. Based on the type of disaster and other circumstances, some shelters may be closed and other facilities may be enlisted.
View the City & County of Honolulu’s map of Oahu hurricane refuge areas at: https://www.honolulugis.org/apps (Public Safety/Oahu Hurricane Refuge Areas Public Viewer)
Stay Informed
On April 1, 2025 HNL Alert launched as the City and County of Honolulu’s new notification system used to alert residents and visitors about emergencies and other important community news. HNL Alert replaces the previous system, known as HNL.Info Alerts.
HNL Alert allows the City to provide registered users with critical information during situations such as severe weather, evacuations, unexpected disruptions to key services, or unplanned road closures.
You can customize what types of events, how, and where to receive alerts.
Visit hnlalert.gov. to download app. HNL Alert is available on the Public Safety by Everbridge app. Search “Honolulu” in the app to get started.
Gifts&Sniffs
Pumpkins, Skeletons, Wigs...Oh My!
Treat your dog with Oven Baked Pumpkin Patch crunchy treats by Merrick. Made with only 6 ingredients including real pumpkin. Halloween getups and toys for your pooch include Bootique’s Rainbow Clown Wig or a Dia de los Muertos Skeleton Rope plush toy. At Petco stores or petco.com.
Stained Glass Suncatcher
Personalized pet portrait Stained Glass Suncatcher. Custom dog portrait from a photo you provide. Made by ElianaCorner at etsy.com.
A Haunted House for Dogs
Halloween gingerbread flavored Dog House Kit. Includes prebaked gingerbread treats ready to be assembled and decorated with icing and candy beads. For adult dogs only by Hyde and EEK! Boutique at target.com.
Soft Plushy Dragon Fun
goDog’s Bubble Plush Dragon Squeaky Toy with Chew Guard Technology. Small & Large. Amazon.com.
O‘ahu’s Off-Leash Dog Parks
‘A‘ala Dog Park
280 N. King St.
Open Daily 6am – 9pm
Ala Wai Dog Park
2444 Hihiwai St.
Near Ala Wai Elementary
Open Daily – daylight hours
Closed Tuesday mornings for maintenance
Bark Park
4155 Diamond Head Rd.
Open Daily – daylight hours
Elaine Dobashi Dog Park
333 Keahole St. at makai end of
Hawai‘i Kai Park & Ride
Open Daily – daylight hours
Closed Tuesday 7am - Noon for maintenance
Forest City Dog Park
3772 Radford Dr.
Bring your own water
Open Daily 7am – 6:30pm
Hoa Aloha Park
949 Ala Loke St. Salt Lake
Open Daily 5am – 8pm
Closed Tuesdays til noon for maintenance
Kaka‘ako Dog Park
690 Pohukaina St. at Mother Waldron Park
Open Daily 5am – 10 pm or as noted on signs
Kahua O Waikalua Dog Park
Opened Dec. 2024
45-231 Kulauli St., Kaneohe Next to Bayview Golf Course
Open Daily 7am – 7pm
Closed Thursdays til 11am for maintenance
Kolowalu Dog Park
Opened Feb. 2025
1240 Ala Moana Blvd, Kakaako
Open Daily 6am – 10pm
Moanalua Dog Park
2900 Moanalua Rd.
Moanalua Community Park
Open Daily – daylight hours
Closed Tuesday mornings for maintenance
Mililani Dog Park
95-1069 Ukuwai St. Park & Ride
Open Daily – daylight hours
Closed Wednesday mornings for maintenance
Mo - ‘ili‘ili Dog Park
2705 Varsity Pl. at Kalo Place Mini Park
Open Daily 5am – 10 pm
Closed Tuesday 7am – noon for maintenance
Waipahu Dog Park
Patsy Mink Central O‘ahu Park, makai-end
Open Daily 7am – 7pm
Closed Wednesday mornings for maintenance
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ISLAND DOG MAGAZINE LIST
OF ADVERTISERS
Since 2008, Island Dog Magazine is published quarterly in February, May, August and November. Our distribution of 17,500 reaches more than 35,000 Island Dog owners— pet parents who seek out our magazine at select Safeways, Times and Longs stores, as well as from veterinarians, pet retailers, and other dog-loving establishments. A digital edition is also posted on our website: IslandDogMagazine.com. For info on advertising, please call John Harmon at (808) 254-2992.
Diabetic Cataracts in Dogs
By Doris Wu, BVM&S, MRCVS, DACVO
Board-Certi ed Ophthalmologist
Did you know that dogs can develop diabetes mellitus just like people and require insulin injections? While this is becoming more widely recognized, one of the consequences of diabetes that is o en overlooked is cataract development. Over 85% of dogs who have diabetes will develop cataracts. A cataract happens when the lens of the eye, which should normally be clear, absorbs a lot of excess sugar and becomes cloudy or white. is prevents dogs from seeing as the lens (instead of being clear) blocks light from ge ing to the back of the eye. With diabetics, this can happen very quickly—sometimes in just hours. is can be extremely distressing to become very suddenly blind. Dogs can become nervous, scared and depressed. Aside from vision problems, cataracts o en also cause a lot of in ammation in the eye and lead to other problems such as glaucoma (high pressure in the eye which is very painful), problems with tear production in over 90% of cases (dry eye), and damage to the surface of the eye (ulcers).
e treatment to get rid of cataracts is a very speci c surgery where the cataract is broken up into very small pieces, sucked out with a special machine, and then an arti cial lens is put in its place. is procedure is performed by a board certi ed veterinary ophthalmologist, with a special microscope so the cuts into the eye are very small.
If surgery is not an option, dogs still need treatment to prevent in ammation, glaucoma, and dry eye. ese conditions can cause pain, damage, infection, or even rupture of the eye.
If you notice your dog is developing cataracts, starts squinting suddenly, seems in pain, the eyes start bulging, or develops eye discharge, our ophthalmology department takes referrals and works with our emergency department to provide care for pets. Our emergency department is open 24/7 if your dog is having an eye emergency!
Top: Before cataract surgery with cloudy lens. Bottom: After surgery with cataract removed and arti cial lens in place.
VCA FAMILY & OAHU VETERINARY SPECIALTY CENTER
SPECIALTY CARE
Critical Care
Joana Goic, DVM, DACVECC
Julie Pfeifer, DVM, DACVECC
Jessica Sun, DVM, DACVECC
Internal Medicine
Justin Wakayama, DVM, DACVIM
Carrie White, DVM, DACVIM
Medical Oncology
Lucy Teddy, DVM, DACVIM
Ophthalmology
Doris Wu, BVM&S, MRCVS, DACVO
Surgery
Shawna Fujita, DVM
Limited to the practice of surgery
Nathaniel Lam, DVM, DACVS
Emergency
Lydia Lam, DVM
Carole-Anne Laurin, DVM
Nandini Mudelier, BVSc, MANZCVS
Alize Rodriguez, DVM
Katie Samuelson, DVM
Loren Schmidt, DVM
Anna Steele, DVM
Justine Yaphe, DVM
PRIMARY CARE
Sheryl Doi, DVM
Luis Ho, DVM
Jasmine Kurisu, DVM
Lauren Kishimoto, DVM
Allison Ong, DVM
Kim Sasaki, DVM
Hillary Sullivan, DVM
Specialty Care
We provide a variety of
• Orthopedic and soft-tissue surgery
• Chest tube placement & management
• Urethral and tracheal stenting
• Mechanical Ventilation
• Cataract surgery • Endoscopy
• CT
Fluoroscopy • Chemotherapy
“I Love My Ford Explorer” —Al Davis
Sure, it comes with a lot of great options like all our new Fords, but it’s the roominess that makes me happy! I’m 6’6” and it’s easy to get in and out of. Plus it seats seven, although I---- gladly sacrifice two seats for my golf clubs. I started at Windward Ford some 20 years ago (long after my Fab 5 basketball days were over), and I’d be happy to show you what a really nice car this is to drive around the Islands. So take a ride to the Windward side and like Kelly Boy says, “Get your own Ford!”
