Keeping Hawaii Dogs Healthy and Safe
Keeping Hawaii Dogs Healthy and Safe
Our tropical island paradise is also home to a variety or infectious organisms and other health threats. Awareness allows us to better protect our canine companions and to work together as a community towards prevention and eradication. Here are some considerations:
As with any reference, these pages are not a substitute for veterinary care. Veterinary practice is an eyes, ears, nose, and hands-on profession which cannot be accomplished over the Internet.
Our Islands Need Model Dogs and Model Dog People
How each of us cares for our dog affects others in the community and on the island. If we want to be able to take our dogs to public places and shared spaces, we need to be polite and responsible about it. That means we bear responsibility to:
Not everyone appreciates being licked, sniffed, or drooled on, even by a cute, friendly pooch. Some people are allergic to or afraid of dogs. If our dog causes injury to another person or pet, it is our responsibility.
No one likes stepping in dog poop. Even when you don't step in it, poop is still unpleasant and unsanitary. Keep a stash of plastic bags tied to your leash.
Face it, we might love our animal companions unconditionally, but others will appreciate or tolerate them more willingly if they behave themselves in public.