Going on hike best bet for people, dogs

Hawaiian Humane Society

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Hiking preparations Before the hike Place identification on your dog's collar. Put an old towel in the car for the trip home. Tell someone where you're going. Bring along: Water and snacks for you and your dog. Plastic bags to pick up after your dog. Cell phone, sun screen, insect repellent. During the hike Keep your dog on leash at all times. Stay with the group on marked trails. Hiking schedule Kaunala trail, above Waimea, April 24 Manana Trail, Pearl City, May 29 Maunawili Gulch Trail, in Waimanalo, June 26 For more hike information, call Kelli at 946-2187, ext. 217, or check the calendar of events at www.hawaiianhumane.org.

Once each month, there's an even better opportunity for dogs to mingle — and the scenery is ever-changing and amazing. Hiking with your dog is even more fun for humans, who get to see the most gorgeous, unspoiled areas of O'ahu.

The hiking group is Paws on the Path. A volunteer from the Hawaiian Humane Society leads the group on trails that are safe for people and dogs. There's no fee or membership.

The group gathers on the last Saturday of each month on island trails. Hikes are planned for the comfort of both dogs and humans and usually begin at 9 a.m., when it's still cool.

"People who love animals have an instant bond with each other," said Sherry Hunt, an organizer. "Each month is a different trail that's been checked out already and is usually rated as novice. We've been doing this every month for more than eight years and it's always a good time. There are adults and some kids, big and little dogs, purebreds and poi dogs. It's a nice variety."

Hunt welcomes people and their dogs at the trailhead, describes the terrain and answers questions. Then the hike begins.

The pace is brisk, but the group takes breaks to rest, chat and enjoy water and maybe a snack.

"Our next hike, at Kaunala above Waimea, is a long drive for most people, but the views make it all worthwhile," said Hunt. "The trail is not difficult, though there is climbing involved. The scenery is beautiful. The views overlook the Ko'olaus and valleys that many have never laid eyes on before."

Paws on the Path provides another way to exercise your dog, meet other pet lovers, and enjoy the beauty of the island. Once you learn the trail, you and your dog can go back anytime.

ADOPTABLES

Tag No. 24692

The window is just like "Cat TV" for Smokey, who loves watching the world go by. He is about 4 years old and already neutered, so he can go to a loving home today. His coloring is classic tabby: brown, tan, black and white with big green eyes.

Tag No. 101

This happy female dog is a mixed terrier and bull terrier. She is a year old, so she's full-grown at a lanky medium size. A friendly gal, Pua has a short coat with big patches of white along with dark brown and black.

These animals already may have found new homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park, at 2700 Wai'alae Ave., are open noon to 8 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The incoming-animals area always is open. If you've lost or found an animal, call 946-2187, ext. 285. See www.hawaiianhumane.org.