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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted on: Sunday, May 22, 2005

ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Start a healthy habit: June 12 Pet Walk

Hawaiian Humane Society

The Hawaiian Humane Society joins the Hawaii Medical Service Association in encouraging the community to get up and get active with our June 12 Pet Walk.

Mahealani Richardson of KITV News 4 volunteers as a dog walker at the humane society.

Hawaiian Humane Society

Hundreds of pet people are expected to turn out, pets in tow. And it not only benefits the animal, but yourself as well.

"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.

Learn more:

www.hmsa.com/go and www.hawaiianhumane.org

The event also is sponsored by Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii, KITV and KSSK.

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.

And remember, there's only 10 days left to send your pet photos for the 2006 calendar! For info, go to www.hawaiianhumane.org. Deadline is May 31.

• • •

Adoptables

Poi

Tag No. 62901. Relaxing in a carpeting kitty condo, Poi is hiding her wide body and gorgeous calico coat. She's got fluffier hair than the average cat, giving her an even bigger presence. Already spayed, Poi can go home today.



Dizzy

Tag No. 62966. Here's an adolescent dog who wears a striking coat of reddish brown brindle with very pretty markings. Look into Dizzy's golden brown eyes and discover whether you have a connection with this pit/hound mix.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open 7 days a week. For hours, directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, see www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals.