"A half-hour walk with your dog burns 80 calories," says HMSA's vice president of government affairs Stacy Evensen. "Having a walking companion is a key to a successful exercise program. Plus, you can improve the quality of life for you and your pet through increased exercise."

"More than 40 percent of O'ahu's homes have dogs," says Pamela Burns, president and CEO of the Hawaiian Humane Society. "That's more than 200,000 dogs in our families wanting regular exercise every day. An eager dog is the ultimate motivator to walk."

Regardless of whether you have a dog or other pet, the public is invited to join for this 15th annual charity walk that includes a 2-mile course through Magic Island and Ala Moana Park.

There is also a one-mile course for smaller dogs. Supporters drop off their pledges at 7 a.m., and the walk starts at 8 a.m. The event celebrates the work of the humane society and the work of thousands in the community who have collected donations. Festivities include a pet costume contest, pet games, entertainment, and refreshments for humans and animals.

The public is invited to make donations or create personal fundraising pages at www.justgiving.com/pfp/PetWalk2005.

While PetWalk comes just once a year, the society encourages every dog owner to make a daily date with your dog for a walk. The humane society also offers Paws on the Path, a monthly hike that begins at 9 a.m. on the last Saturday of each month.

The next hike is May 28 on the Trail at Pupukea. Meet between 8:30 and 8:45 a.m. The hike starts at 9 a.m. Call Kelli Nitahara at 356-2217. If you're without a dog, you can volunteer with the humane society as a dog walker. Call 356-2216 for details.

Thirty minutes of physical activity every day can make you healthier and happier.