• 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
Where Island Living Meets Paw-Proof Design
Eric Ako DVM
Ann Sakamoto DVM
Jordan Bader DVM
Krista-Ann Lee DVM
John Kaya DVM
Leianne Lee Loy DVM
Dermatology
Dermatology
Dr. Kain Masutani, DVM
Dr. Kain Masutani, DVM
Dr. Kain Masutani was born and raised in Hawaii and attended Mi Pacific Institute. He earned his undergraduate degree from Creighton University and his veterinary degree at St. George’s University, finishing his clinical year at Oregon State University. He later completed a dermatology residency in Washington. During this time, he obtained certification in CO laser surgery. Dr. Masutani is excited to return home to Hawaii and provide advanced dermatology services to the community.
Dr. Kain Masutani was born and raised in Hawaii and attended Mi Pacific Institute. He earned his undergraduate degree from Creighton University and his veterinary degree at St. George’s University, finishing his clinical year at Oregon State University. He later completed a dermatology residency in Washington. During this time, he obtained certification in CO laser surgery. Dr. Masutani is excited to return home to Hawaii and provide advanced dermatology services to the community.
Constant scratching, licking, or chewing
Constant scratching, licking, or chewing
Hair loss or bald patches
Hair loss or bald patches
Red, flaky, or irritated skin
Red, flaky, or irritated skin
Unpleasant odor from the skin or ears
Unpleasant odor from the skin or ears
Our Services:
Services:
surgical laser
Removal of skin growth, tumors, and warts
Removal of skin growth, tumors, and warts
Minimal damage to the skin and blood vessels
Minimal damage to the skin and blood vessels
Removal of certain pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions
Removal of certain pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions CO surgical laser
Reduces inflammation and swelling Light Therapy (Phovia)
Accelerates wound healing and helps clear infections
Accelerates wound healing and helps clear infections
Utilized for hot spots, wounds, and surgical sites
Reduces inflammation and swelling Light Therapy (Phovia)
Utilized for hot spots, wounds, and surgical sites
Food allergies
Food allergies
Diet trials to determine food allergies
Diet trials to determine food allergies
Hypoallergenic maintenance diets
Hypoallergenic maintenance diets
Recurrent skin or ear infections
Recurrent skin or ear infections
Thickened or darkened skin
Thickened or darkened skin
Skin growths, tumors or warts
Skin growths, tumors or warts
Seasonal or food-related allergies
Seasonal or food-related allergies
Video ear exams
Video ear exams
Visualizes and records the ear canals and eardrums
Visualizes and records the ear canals and eardrums
We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ednee Yoshioka to the Island Veterinary Care ‘ohana!
Dr. Yoshioka brings nearly a decade of veterinary experience and has a special interest in internal medicine, oncology, and integrative medicine. Born and raised in Mililani, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa before completing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Colorado State University.
With a passion for solving complex medical cases, Dr. Yoshioka values building lasting, meaningful relationships with both her patients and their families. She is certified in veterinary acupuncture and integrates therapies such as acupuncture and laser treatment to provide the most comprehensive and compassionate care possible— particularly for pets facing chronic illness, pain, and mobility challenges.
One especially meaningful case involved a dog who came in for a second opinion with multiple health concerns. Underweight, lethargic, and no longer eating well, his owner was seeking one last opportunity to improve his quality of life. Through acupuncture and laser therapy, he experienced remarkable improvement and is now enjoying a happy, comfortable life.
We are truly honored to have Dr. Yoshioka join our team and look forward to the exceptional, compassionate care she will provide to our community.
Call us at (808) 944-0003 to schedule an appointment today.
Dr. Ednee Yoshioka joins the Island Veterinary Care ‘ohana.
Publishers
John B. Harmon III
Carol R. Harmon
Editor
John Harmon
Design
Carol Harmon
Cover Photo
Kelli with an Eye Photography
Kelli Bullock-Hergert
Printing
Journal Graphics
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
Our 19th Spring Fling is a wonderful thing. And boy, are we glad you’re here to enjoy the many splendors of the season with us! Our cover gleams with Guppy, a 5 lb. bundle of charm and energy who loves nothing more than chasing his little ball about the park, in a photo by lovely lenswoman Kelli Bullock Hergert, natch. You go, Gupster!
Our photo galleries are filled with the friendly faces of your fabulous furballs, including Puppies. Absolutely adorbs! Next up is Pups & Peeps, which allows you to bask in the reflected glow of their unconditional cuteness and love. So share ‘em!
Donna Moormann-Wright opines on thoughtful grooming in a salt-air world and our annual Oahu Vet Directory is arranged by location to help you find the right one near home or work. Gifts & Sniffs riffs on all things dogcentric and Nuggets scratches your itch for wonderful tidbits of canine enlightenment, while John Pritchett advances the advantage of thinking big!
On a sorrowful note, we bid adieu to dear friend and longtime resident artist Dan Van Zyle. May you find peace with your beloved Rosie. Aloha Danny!
And we end, as always, with a tip of the hat to you, dear readers, who tickle the fancies of our advertisers by telling them that you found them here. We are forever grateful for the kindness of your attention in this most digital of ages.
Mahalo! John & Carol
Let me tell you about my Guppy! He came to me late January 2019, a gift from my son Cody. I was completely devastated after losing Skunky, my longhair chihuahua, and then Guppy came into our lives like a lil’ wildfire. He loves playing fetch at the park every day; it’s been his favorite from his first week being at home. He loves going shopping at the malls and going to restaurants. He loves going on staycations in Waikiki, which we’d rather do than travel because we have a hard time leaving him home. His favorite hotel is the Prince Waikiki for the comfy beds and sushi restaurant, and the ‘Alohilani because it’s close to the beach. He doesn’t like swimming much but loves laying on the beach and soaking up lots of attention. Guppy brings a lot of smiles but as a chihuahua/pomeranian, he can get a bit sassy. His favorite foods are salmon, steamed snapper, and of course, steak. He loves
ISLAND
Guppy
DOG
going on car rides and goes everywhere with us except work. He’s 7 years old, 5 lbs, and very energetic—always the littlest dog at the park, but thinks he’s a Rottweiler! — Garrett Horie
KELLI BULLOCK HERGERT
2
HAWAII PET EXPO
Saturday
&
Educational Displays & Hand Crafts | Toys, Clothing and Gifts for your Pet
Please kokua with a nonperishable donation for the Hawaii Foodbank. Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed and under their owner’s control.
For information or to reserve booth space contact Dr. Lissa Kam at 808-845-1762
Rosco
Dexter Minka Charlie 15 years young
Mari Kuma
Maile - Thai Ridgeback Kika Roselani
In Loving Memory
Caleb
In Loving Memory
Stella Peters
Maitai
Fifi
Lucy
Chi Chi Cha Cho
Toby
Kila
Maru
Luffy
Taiho
Lulu “For me!?!”
In Loving Memory Niho
In Loving Memory
Hana
Emery
Mahina
Daisy
Mushu & Blitzen
Tala Moana & Enya Tide
Hobbes
Eevee & Mari
Niece & Uncle Duo: Sunny & Wally
In Loving Memory
Otter
In Loving Memory
Gracie
Zeke
Zelda
Maia
Koda-Christopher
Sachi
Maisie
Kuhio
Benni & Nikki
Aulani
Rosco
❤ In Loving Memory Bindi
Nellie Midnight
Cooper
Gustave
Silly Billy
Kaipo
Franklin
Kobe admiring himself in Island Dog!
Mia, Pongo, Akira & Sophia
Buddy
AWhen Love Creates Chaos Rethinking
Small Dog Behavior
size. Small dogs are just as capable of developing serious behavioral issues when structure is absent. With proper assessment, owner accountability, and clear expectations, even deeply ingrained patterns can be reversed. Every dog deserves to be treated with respect—and that includes being given boundaries they can rely on.
PATIENT: Goliath – Adult Pomeranian/Chihuahua Mix
SYMPTOMS: Goliath, a small but intensely reactive dog, was exhibiting frequent barking, snapping, and biting toward his owners and anyone who came near him. Despite his size, his behavior was volatile and unpredictable—especially when being handled, moved, or approached while resting.
This pattern is commonly referred to as Little Dog Syndrome —not a personality trait, but a humancreated behavioral imbalance.
DIAGNOSIS: A thorough behavioral history revealed that Goliath had been unintentionally conditioned to believe rules did not apply to him because of his size. He was frequently carried instead of guided, allowed unrestricted access to furniture, and excused from boundaries that would normally be enforced with larger dogs.
In the absence of clear structure, Goliath assumed control of situations through barking and biting. His behavior was not rooted in confidence, but in insecurity reinforced by indulgence: “If I don’t control my environment, no one else will.”
SOLUTION: The rehabilitation plan focused primarily on owner education and leadership restructuring. Rather than simply holding him back on a leash or picking him up in the face of undesirable behaviors, we taught the owners how to train Goliath what TO do
in these situations, which all included structure and disciplined obedience.
Clear rules were put in place regarding when he was picked up, where he was allowed to rest, and how people moved around him in the home. Behaviors that had previously been excused such as growling, barking, or snapping were replaced with location specific relaxation protocols. Rather than reacting, the owners were trained to give direction early and with confidence. By creating consistent, structured interactions with clear expectations, Goliath no longer felt the need to control situations through aggression and began to defer to his owners for guidance.
Within weeks, biting incidents ceased. Barking diminished significantly, and Goliath became noticeably calmer, more approachable, and easier to handle. By restoring leadership, structure, and trust (not punishment) the household returned to a state of balance.
If you are experiencing aggression of any sort, from dogs of any size, we can help! Our behavior programs are tailored to meet each dog’s specific needs. Scan the QR code or request an evaluation online. We look forward to meeting you and your pup!
Sean Riley, Canine Behavioral Psychologist with his dogs (l-r) Pono and Bodhi.
Sam Kira
Henry
Chloe
Gracie ❤ In Loving Memory Kiwi
Frodo
Cooper
Stella
Hooheno Bear
Ollie Kealoha
Sora
Zion
Caring for Island Dogs: Thoughtful Grooming in a Salt-Air World
By Donna Moormann-Wright, Certified Canine Esthetician
Living with dogs in Hawaii is different. Our dogs swim daily, hike muddy trails, nap in the sun, roll in sand, and soak up salt air year-round. From Golden Retrievers and poi dogs to poodles, doodles, and short-coated companions, island dogs live full, outdoor lives—and their skin and coats tell the story.
After more than 35 years of handson grooming, showing, and caring for dogs, one thing is clear: island dogs need grooming routines designed for how they actually live, not a one-size-fits-all approach borrowed from elsewhere.
Bathing Isn’t the Enemy
There’s a long-standing myth that bathing dogs too often is harmful. In reality, the right shampoo and conditioner, used correctly, can safely support regular bathing, even weekly for some dogs.
Dogs that swim frequently in the ocean or pool often benefit from consistent bathing to remove salt, chlorine, minerals, and environmental buildup that can otherwise linger on the skin. Left untreated, that buildup can contribute to dryness, odor, irritation, and discomfort — and this is true for nearly every dog, from Labs to Doodles and everything in between.
The key is matching the routine to the dog. A Poodle, Shih Tzu, or Sheltie may need a very different bathing and conditioning schedule than a short-coated poi dog or retriever. This is where conversations with knowledgeable local pet professionals make all the difference.
Brushing That Reaches the Skin
One of the most common issues we see is
coats that look brushed, but aren’t brushed all the way through. Surface brushing can miss matting tight to the skin—and that hidden matting can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to odor and skin problems before anyone realizes what’s happening.
Regular brushing and combing, done properly, helps prevent this. It’s not just about appearance; it’s about skin health.
Conditioners Matter
Conditioners aren’t optional; they’re part of maintaining healthy skin and coat, especially for dogs exposed to salt and sun.
Some conditioners are designed to detangle and reduce friction. Others replenish lost oils, support proper skin pH, or provide lightweight protection between baths. Many can be used as rinse-out products after shampooing, while others work beautifully as leave-in sprays—and some do both.
Choosing the right one depends on coat type, activity level, and how often the dog is bathed.
Drying Is Part of the Groom
Drying matters just as much as washing. Thorough towel drying can remove up to 80 percent of moisture, especially when dogs are wrapped in absorbent towels or full-body drying wraps with hoods. For thicker coats, it’s important dogs are fully dried within a reasonable amount of time to prevent skin issues.
Gentle airflow is better than high heat. Human dryers are often too hot, but there are affordable pet dryers available that use safe temperatures and effective airflow.
A Little Extra Protection
Short-coated dogs, hairless breeds, and recently shaved pets may benefit from added skin protection. Dog-safe sunscreen help shield exposed skin from the sun, while waterless enzyme sprays offer a quick refresh between baths.
Community Care, Island Style
Caring for island dogs is about understanding their environment and meeting them where they are. Whether you groom at home or work with a professional, a thoughtful routine goes a long way toward keeping dogs comfortable, healthy, and happy.
Donna Moormann-Wright is the owner of Kailua Pets (ad below), a windward dog grooming spa. If you’d like help choosing the right products, learning better brushing techniques, or refining your dog’s bathing routine, she is happy to talk story. She regularly shows dog owners how to brush effectively, and will be offering brushing guidance at monthly assisted self-wash events.
Donna Moormann-Wright, certified Canine Esthetician checks out a standard Poodle.
ARTIST PRINTMAKER
IN LOVING MEMORY
1942-2025
It is with a heavy heart and great admiration that we mark the passing of our dear friend and long-time Island Dog contributor Daniel Van Zyle. For over a decade his “Notes From Afield” graced our pages with stellar insights and drawings of dog breeds. Aloha, Danny.
John & Carol Harmon, Island Dog Magazine
Longtime readers of Island Dog will know his “Notes from Afield” dog breed studies published between 2008 and 2021. Daniel Van Zyle’s great love of dogs started back in his youth.
Raised in the rural surroundings of upstate New York, Dan grew up with nature as his greatest companion. His deep connection to wildlife and wild places was imprinted upon him at an early age. “It was a fantastic childhood, one you’d wish for everyone— exploring, hunting, fishing, trapping, gardening—all nurtured by my mom, Ruth, and Grannie, my hanai grandma.”
And through it all were dogs. Among the notable ones were Shadow, a black Cocker Spaniel, Cinda, a German Shepherd and the best, the Collies from Trumpet Kennels, which was started and run by his mother.
“Mum was a fantastic artist, and art was always a big part of our lives... I always had pencil, paper or brush. I’ve made art all my life. I was taught to respect Mother Nature—to use, conserve the land and its bounty and above all, responsibility.”
Living and working in Hawaii since 1965, Dan is considered one of Wildlife Arts’ prominent original print artists. As one Hawaii art critic wrote, “Van Zyle combines keen and patient observation and attention to detail with virtuoso drawing skills to create a pure and precise vision of the beauty and vulnerability of island wildlife.”
Scattered throughout his studio are collections of feathers, shells, rocks, and keepsakes from his life and travels—all revealing nature’s story.
“Hawaii’s unique natural stories deserve to be told, and from field work to completion, on each piece the one goal I set for myself is to tell that story well...it’s the entire process that counts.”
Dan’s psyche would not be complete without a dog. And of all the dogs in his life, his favorite was a black standard Poodle. “A young black male puppy wiggled into my lap, looked up at me and said ‘Let’s go home.‘ Manaka Ikaika of Nonsuch, or Ikaika for short, was probably the best dog I ever had the pleasure of knowing. Strong like his name but cheerful and with a huge heart.”
Dan’s favorite dog was standard Poodle Manaka Ikaika of Nonsuch.
In 2008, Island Dog and Dan started a collaboration by featuring one of his dog breed studies in “Notes from Afield.” Each study is an expression of his love of dogs through his remarkable eye and fine hand.
Dan’s fine art career spanned over 50 years. His drawings, paintings, and prints captured the essence of Hawaii—its land and its people with authenticity and aloha. His art has been in national wildlife art exhibitions and galleries in Hawaii and the mainland and numerous publications. His work is included in permanent local and national collections.
His public and private commissions include:
• The 1997-98 Hawaii State Conservation Stamp/Print (Hawaii’s Duck Stamp);
• Art director and artist for both the Hawai‘i Nature Center and its Interactive Science Arcade in ‘Iao Valley
• Illustration of the awardwinning children’s book:
• Physical Branding/ID program for National Audubon Centers and Sanctuaries
Dan’s most recent honor was in May 2023 celebrating 50 years of his art at Volcano Art Center (VAC) in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The exhibition included original paintings and lithographs. Dan was present for the opening reception.
View the exhibit on VAC’s website: https://volcanoartcenter.org/
The “Notes from Afield” study of the Golden Retriever was first published in our magazine.
Closeup: “Notes from Afield” American Pit Bull Terrier - 2008.
Since antiquity, Siberian Chukchi have used this elegant honest worker as a draft animal. Smaller than most sled
Siberian Husky
dogs, they’re bred for stamina over long hard trails. The only true husky, they were brought to America in the early 20th century, and are still very popular for use in sled pulling and racing events. This calm gentle athlete makes an extremely pleasant companion.
Individuals may have multiple eye coloration. Blue, brown, hazel or non-solid.
Many colors
Rarely barks. Communal howling like wolves.
Descending from the 16th century thick coated Labrador Newfoundlands, whose job it was retrieving fishing nets from the cold treacherous waters off Newfoundland, Canada.
Labrador Retriever
Traded to English sailors through the centuries, they were refined by breeders in England for use as gundogs. Introduced to America in 1917, it soon became popular with the waterfowl and upland game hunters.
T his sturdy gregarious, gentle, well-balanced, eager to please, water lover is at home either in the field, the show ring, the family circle, or as an assistance dog. It is at the top of the popularity list for pure bred dogs in the U.S.
Wt. 55-80 lbs.
Ht. 22-1/2 - 24-1/2”
requirements are
Top: “Notes from Afield’ published in Island Dog.
Middle: Acrylic painting, Nene Flight
Left: ‘I‘iwi Hawaiian Honeycreeper Field Note
Fox red to cream, chocolate & black
Ownership
simple: Regular exercise, companionship, proper nutrition and above all, remember their love of water.
3-in-1 Plush Musubi
Gifts &Sniffs
Your pooch will have a blast taking apart this Spam Musubi plush toy. The nori layer is crinkly and the spam and rice are squeaky.
Mahalo Aunty Leah!
At Dis-and-Bark Pearlridge & Kakaako and disandbark.com.
Cosmically Delicious
1.5” embroidered fake merit badges. Choose from iron-on, velcro or peel & stick. $4.45 each. Order from demeritwear.com
Cosmic Crisps Salmon Twists are airdried wild Alaskan Salmon skin twists that will have your fur babies over the moon. By Happy Claws Lucky Paws. At The Pet Depot in Ewa Beach.
PIT STOP
SQUIRREL!
SUP? WITH A FRIEND!
CHEWED SNEAKER
Easter - April 5
Easter fun with a squeaky and crinkly and oh-so-soft Snuggle Bunny plush toy or a tantalizing Easter Garden toy. Your dog can enjoy burrowing and snuffling for treats. Just tuck your pup’s favorite snack into the toy and let the fun begin.
Flavor & Nutrient Boost
A savory meal topper can really transform a bowl of kibble. Gunnis Fisherman’s Feast is sustainably-sourced and features the world’s freshest caught fish. Pâté topper in 4 flavors: Salmon + Cod Liver, Arctic Char + Cod Liver, Cod + Capelin and, Herring + Cod. Available at Enchanted Lake Pet in Kailua.
Spring Cleaning
It’s a Clean Day with Mrs. Meyer’s line of aromatherapeutic pet care products. Clean Day Pet Stain & Odor Fighter, a probioticpowered cleaner fights pet stains and odor on soft surfaces for up to 7 days with the scent of Coconut Leaf or Orange Blossom. Available on amazon.com.
By Youly, exclusively at Petco stores or
Easter Parade Worthy
Top Paw® Easter Eggs Headband with adjustable elastic band and Easter Bunny Hoodie. Exclusively at Petsmart stores and petsmart.com.
Clinics and hospitals are grouped by geographic location. Each listing includes address, phone number, website and veterinarians. Highlighted listings are Island Dog advertisers. Look for special designations for emergency/after hours clinics and naturopathic practitioners.
Listing information may change without notice and may not be updated until the next publication date in February 2027. The Veterinary Directory is
Home Pet Service Mobile Vet Eric Pearson, DVM 808-261-6000
Island Mobile Vet www.islandmobilevet.com
Osgood, DVM 808-349-4220 Kamaaina Canine & Cat Care
Tiberi, DVM 808-222-5471
Mobile Veterinary Service Kaneohe 96744 808-375-0405
Polly S. Yamamoto, VMD, CCRT
Veterinary Mobile Medicine
DENTAL CLEANING
Canine Dental Service caninedentalservice.com
nuggets
Off-Leash Dog Park in Makiki
Oahu’s newest off-leash dog park opened at Punahou Square (corner of Punahou St. and Wilder Ave.) on January 5, 2026. The half-acre fenced park features a large fig tree providing a shady play area for off-leash dogs. The City’s 11th off-leash park fulfills a request from the Makiki Neighborhood Board.
Other off-leash dog parks on Oahu:
District 1 (Ka Iwi to Waikiki)
• Ala Wai Neighborhood Park
• Diamond Head Bark Park (non-profit operated)
• Elaine Dobashi Hawaii Kai Dog Park
• Kalo Place Mini Park
District 2 (Makiki to Aiea)
• ‘Aala Park
• Hoa Aloha Neighborhood Park
• Kolowalu Park (operated by the Hawaii Community Development Authority)
• Moanalua Community Park
• Mother Waldron Neighborhood Park
• Punahou Square
District 4 (Mokuleia to Makapuu)
• Kahua O Waikalua Neighborhood Park
District 5 (Pearl City to Whitmore)
• Mililani Park & Ride
• Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park
Who Let the Dogs In? AKC Welcomes Three New Breeds
As of January 1, 2026, the American Kennel Club (AKC) welcomed three new breeds to its registry:
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne: a cheerful scent hound from France, known for its royal heritage and distinctive fawn coat.
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka: a curly-coated, dark-haired toy breed from Russia, bred for companionship.
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier: a lively and loyal American breed named after the 26th U.S. President.
These breeds bring the total recognized breeds to 205 and are now eligible to compete in AKC conformation shows and other events.
Luxury Dog-First Retreat
BARK Air and Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort, are hosting two dog-first retreats on Kahuwai Bay. Guests will enjoy a fournight stay in a luxury oceanfront hale and daily dog-first experiences. The Retreat includes private charter flights from Los Angeles to Kona, with concierge support for vet coordination and Hawaii entry requirements. Whether you fly round-trip on BARK Air or are already on the Big Island, BARK Air has you covered. Only two dates are offered: March 15-19 and May 13-17, 2026.
Flgiht + Resort Package: Round-trip
BARK Air flights between Los Angeles and Kona plus a four-night stay at Kona Village start at $2,690 per night plus $15,000 per person for BARK Air’s private jet service.
BARK Air is a public charter operator. It is not a direct air carrier and does not own or operate any aircraft. All flights are operated by a licensed U.S. air carrier.
The Nose Knows: Smelling Time Go By
Does your dog wait by the door or window to greet you when you come home from work...like clockwork? Research supports the idea that dogs track time primarily through their sense of smell. In the morning human scent is strong. As the day goes by, the scent weakens. Their powerful noses pick up on the fading and shifting human scents and environmental smells as a “scent clock.” Scientists, like Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, suggest that time for dogs isn’t linear but an olfactory experience tied to how quickly scents become weaker or change with air currents, helping them anticipate events like owner returns. Dr. Horowitz is known for her revealing book Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know, originally published in 2009 and now available fully revised and updated (2025).
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.
Yoko Haneda DVM
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ISLAND DOG MAGAZINE LIST OF ADVERTISERS
Ctr. 62-Inside
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.
DWhen Dog Fights Happen
Jessica Sun, DVM DACVECC
ogs can seriously injure each other in fights. While we all hope that everyone can get along, sometimes things happen but there are often warning signs or situations we should be mindful of that can increases chances of your dog being hurt. Some reasons that can lead to inter-dog aggression include:
• Resource Guarding: This happens when dogs feel protective of or feels the need to defend a resource such as food, toys, areas, people or other pets.
• Fear: Pets can get overwhelmed and react defensively if they feel cornered or trapped, and this can be worsened by being in a small or enclosed area.
• Pain: Chronic pain, just like in people, can make tempers and tolerance shorter.
• Ignored Social Cues: Dogs use body language and vocalization to communicate, and if other dogs are not heeding messages such as “back off” or “I’m uncomfortable” but continue to get in another’s space, the response may be aggression.
Warning signs that dogs are uncomfortable include wide eyes/staring, freezing, backing away, licking lips, or whining. If these cues aren’t heeded then dogs can progress to growling, baring teeth, and biting.
When these cues are ignored, is when dog fights happen. Dog bite wounds can be very serious and should always warrant veterinary evaluation. Wounds can look very small from the outside, but dog teeth are meant to rip and tear. This means that the damage underneath the skin can be a lot more severe. Dog mouths harbor many different types of bacteria as well, so chances of infection are high. Wounds should be evaluated by a veterinarian to be cleaned, flushed, and to start pain medications and antibiotics to prevent infection—sooner treatment is always better to prevent infection from gaining a foothold.
If your dog is in a dog fight or gets bitten, we are here to provide 24-7 emergency and specialty care for them. Our general practice team is here to help you manage inter-dog aggression and behavioral issues that can lead to dog fights. Call us to book an appointment or for help getting to the hospital in an emergency!
At VCA, your pet’s health is our top priority and excellent service is our goal. We provide the very best medicine by offering a full range of services including primary, emergency, surgical and specialty all in one building. Our veterinarians and team treat your pet with the same level of care they would give to their own pet.
VCA FAMILY & OAHU VETERINARY SPECIALTY CENTER
SPECIALTY CARE
SPECIALTY CARE
Critical Care
PRIMARY CARE
PRIMARY CARE
Sheryl Doi, DVM
Critical Care
Joana Goic, DVM, DACVECC
Julie Pfeifer, DVM, DACVECC
Julie Pfeifer, DVM, DACVECC
Jessica Sun, DVM, DACVECC
Jessica Sun, DVM, DACVECC
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine
Justin Wakayama, DVM, DACVIM
Justin Wakayama, DVM, DACVIM
Carrie White, DVM, DACVIM
Carrie White, DVM, DACVIM
Medical Oncology
Medical Oncology
Lucy Teddy, DVM, DACVIM
Lucy Teddy, DVM, DACVIM
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology
Doris Wu, BVM&S, MRCVS, DACVO
Doris Wu, BVM&S, MRCVS, DACVO
Surgery
Surgery
Nathaniel Lam, DVM, DACVS
Shawna Fujita, DVM
Limited to the practice of surgery
Emergency
Nathaniel Lam, DVM, DACVS
Lydia Lam, DVM
Emergency
Nandini Mudelier, BVSc, MANZCVS
Lydia Lam, DVM
Alize Rodriguez, DVM
Carole-Anne Laurin, DVM
Katie Samuelson, DVM
Loren Schmidt, DVM
Nandini Mudelier, BVSc, MANZCVS
Alize Rodriguez, DVM
Whitney Sia, DVM
Katie Samuelson, DVM
Anna Steele, DVM
Loren Schmidt, DVM
Justin Yaphe, DVM
Anna Steele, DVM
Justine Yaphe, DVM
Luis Ho, DVM
Sheryl Doi, DVM
Luis Ho, DVM
Jasmine Kurisu, DVM
Lauren Kishimoto, DVM
Rayne Johnson, DVM
Allison Ong, DVM
Lauren Kishimoto, DVM
Christine Miyasaki, DVM
Kim Sasaki, DVM
Angelo Torres, DVM
Hillary Sullivan, DVM
Specialty Care
Specialty
We provide a variety of
that includes: •
that includes:
• Orthopedic and soft-tissue surgery
•
• Chest tube placement & management
& management • Urethral and tracheal stenting
• Urethral and tracheal stenting
• Mechanical Ventilation
• Cataract surgery • Endoscopy
• CT • Fluoroscopy
• Chemotherapy Visit OahuVSC.com to learn more.
We still love our new Maverick for the same reasons: Great mileage—saving over $100 a month, easy parking, plenty of space in the bed for hauling, relaxed deal making, etc. But don’t just take Island Dog’s word for it, because the Ford Maverick has been named Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year, the North American Truck of the Year, and a Consumer Reports Best Buy for 2026! Options include a hybrid engine, all-wheel drive, towing boost, and a price tag that’s thousands less than the competition!
So take a ride to the Windward side and, like Kelly Boy says, “Get Your Own Ford. Cheeee-hoo!”
— John and Carol Harmon, Publishers, Island Dog Magazine
