Posted on: Sunday, October 3, 2004
Love a loggie? This is your month!
Hawaiian Humane Society
For more than 12,000 years, dogs have been companions for humans.
There doesn't seem to be an end in sight for the canine's popularity. And why would there be? What other animal can help protect a home, keep people company, entertain families with funny antics, motivate people to exercise, and even provide vital services to those with disabilities?
Tag no. 42770.
Wearing a luxurious coat of black and white, this macho guy enjoys attention and loves to be scratched. He's just a year old and has amazing yellow eyes. Already neutered, Mr. T is ready to go home with you today.
Tag no. 752.
Here's a dog that has already learned good manners. He knows how to walk nicely on a leash — now he just needs a home where he can "sit" and "stay." At 5 years old, Dingo is the perfect, playful companion for a loving person. People acquire dogs for many reasons. Marty Hutchins, coordinator of the shelter animal behavior program at the Hawaiian Humane Society, said,
"When people bring a dog into their home with realistic expectations and a commitment to make the relationship work, the rewards can be immeasurable," he said. "Companionship" was mentioned as the No. 1 reason for adding a dog.
"Some families feel a dog gives them more security," Hutchins said, "while others hope a dog will teach their children responsibility. Some feel that a dog will inspire them to get out and walk — be good for their health."
The path to a great relationship with a dog begins when the potential owners take time to weigh important factors such as children, lifestyle, living space and budget. Then they need to decide whether they have time to raise a puppy, the energy to keep a teenage dog occupied, or prefer an adult dog that may already be house-trained.
"The adoption counselors at the society are a good resource for discovering which age and breed of dog will work best with their household," Hutchins said.
Once people have acquired a dog, it's important to spend time with the new companion to help the dog adapt to the lifestyle and habits of the family — and help the family get to know and love their new companion.
"The more dogs are socialized and trained to behave properly at home, Hutchins said, "the more likely they are to become lifelong companions."
Responsible owners work through predictable problems such as chewing, barking and house-training. They patiently and consistently teach their dogs acceptable behaviors and are rewarded with a well-mannered dog that is a valued member of the family and also welcome in the neighborhood.
More than 37 percent of O'ahu's households have at least one dog. The island has three off-leash dog parks with several more in the works. The Hawaiian Humane Society's Paws on the Path hiking club offers hikes for people and dogs on the last Saturday of each month. And a list of beaches and parks where leashed dogs are allowed is available from the society.
These particular animals already may have found 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 the society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285. See www.hawaiianhumane.org.
Since October is Love-a-Dog month, the Hawaiian Humane Society explores the relationship between people and dogs.
Mr. T
Dingo
• • •
| K-9 Game Day
Presented by the Hawaiian Humane Society from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 23, Thomas Square Park Come with your canine companion for: • Games for your dog • Pet costume contest • Massage and grooming • Refreshments • "Pictures with Santa Paws" • Dogs available for adoption, too Love-A-Dog October is Love-a-Dog month at the Hawaiian Humane Society. To learn more about the Society's month-long adoption specials and events, visit www.hawaiianhumane.org. |
