another day with Miki & Shammy

Kimo peed on the chair leg (the chair next to his doghouse) again. Hasn't happened for a while, but I guess it's better than peeing in the house.

RMAS come again. I took out Kimo and went up the street. Amy tells me she's cancelling her alarm system. She was cleaning up her overflowing toilet and forgot to turn off the alarm and says it's too humbug to turn off and on I guess.

Anyway, I let them pass back down and went to get Hershey and trailed them again.

This time, we managed to catch up to them (didn't quite get there yesterday). Well at least Hershey caught up to Shammy. Reina and Miki were still in the front. Kimo remained calm.

They turned around and I put my hand on the back of Kimo's neck just in case. But he seemed OK. They were going down the driveway and Miki started barking. I think at Paco. Then Kimo instantly reacted by going wild. I had to hold the leash up for four or five seconds until he calmed down.

Almost.

Then to Makanani. The basenji was there, the rubbish truck was coming and the man opened the gate to toss his rubbish in the bin. And I took the opportunity to toss my poop bag in along with some styrofoam thing I picked up at his neighbor's grass. The basenji came at the fence. Kimo got a little near and the basenji took a bite in the air. I pulled Kimo away, but Kimo didn't show much reaction.

Then past the white and brown dogs, who didn't bark at first. Then up Skyline and down Puna. The black dog was on steps but stayed there and didn't bark. But as we got to the next house, the dogs in the house barked and the black dog ran to the fence and joined in.

Then back to Makanani. The basenji was there. I had Kimo sit and pulled some burrs off his fur as the basenji looked on. Just to try to get him used to us. Then we headed home.

[Tue 8/11/]

trying again with Miki & Shammy

The dogs were barking, it was RMAS.

Took Kimo out and went over next door. Hershey wasn't there yet, but soon enough Gerald comes and drops off Hershey.

I let RMAS pass, holding Kimo to control him, then we slowly followed up the street and stayed at a little distance. Kimo was mostly calm. At least no outbursts.

Then off to Lolena Place, Kamalii. Turning the corner there were two pit bulls (or mixes, one barking, one somewhat calm). I never saw them before, only heard them barking (I assume it must be them). Then Hillcrest, down Skyline, Maalaea, Naio. When I came to the place with the bunch of small dogs, I only saw one brown furry dog not barking at us. But as we got closer, a few of them ran out and started yipping. The furry dog started barking but stopped as we walked away. Then to Hala.

Decided to go down Laki. There was a tame pit bull looking at us. At least he wasn't barking. But soon a small little white dog (not tied up) on the driveway we passed started barking.

Turning the corner up Kealakai. The corner house had a couple of water dishes, but not sign of a dog. As we passed, the dog charged to the fence and barked at us. It was the old brown dog that I thought was gone. He stopped barking. I brought Kimo to the fence and they sniffed.

[Monday 8/10, posted 8/11]

make that two days in a row

I heard barking in the morning and went to the front to look. It was Reina and Amy walking Miki and Shammy. That's two days in a row.

Somewhat later, I took Kimo out and went to retrieve Hershey. As Kimo came over to sniff, Hershey went into a submissive position lying on his back with hind leg in air.

Then we went up the street. RMAS were coming back from the beginning of the street so I had the dogs sit while they came back. Kimo lost it once and I grabbed the back of his neck to settle him down. Then had him lie down.

Meanwhile Koa was behind the gate whining for me. So after they went down the driveway, I went over to pet him. Hershey was scared and didn't want to go close, so I had to kind of drag him. I guess Hershey is scared of Koa too.

Then down the road and cross the street. The Filipino man was walking his little chipom. He said he had stones (I guess kidney stones) and had to have an operation. I noticed some missing hair on his leg and found out the dog is 10 years old. Kimo didn't seem inclined to sniff.

Then we came to the black gate. The brown dalmation (or whatever he is) was lying down, but I lingered for a while and he and Kimo sniffed.

Then further down, the white pit bull (or whatever he is) was by the gate but not barking. Later the brown pit bull (or whatever he is) was gated by the front door of the house started barking. And as were made our way past, the white one started barking.

Then up Skyline and down Puna. The black dog saw us but didn't bark. Then started barking some as we made our way past. I think these dogs are getting used to us.

Then to Aulii and back to Makanani. The basenji was behind the gate along with the elderly man and a young girl. The basenji postured then came to gate. Kimo didn't seem interested in going over.

So what is that? Kimo plus 10 dogs? Not counting Nalu's two dogs who half-heartedly barked at us. Sort of out of obligation I think.

getting better? but still dangerous

I still maintain that Kimo has gotten better, but he's still not safe.

Donna and Christie were in the back with Kimo and I was inside on the computer.

I hear some screaming in the back and I run to the back. Kimo is growling at them. I pick up the leash and try to leash him as Kimo goes wild. He nips at me and gets my thumb. A few seconds later he calms down a bit but I see blood dripping to the ground. My blood. He calms down further and I go to wash my hand with the hose.

The bleeding didn't completely stop (slow ooze) until the next day. It's still kind of numb as I write this the next day.

Christie said what happened was that Kimo jumped on her and she grabbed his paw to take him off. That's when he started growling. I think I made it worse by running outside and confronting him with the leash. That might have heightened the intensity. I should have just stayed between them until he calmed down. Or at least not put my hand in harm's way.

So Kimo is still prone to these episodes when he goes wild and strikes unthinkingly. But this time he was reacting to me trying to leash him from the front.

[Sun 8/2, posted 8/3]

The reappearance of Miki and Shammy

Decided to go long with Kimo. Went down Kealakai and saw a couple walking further down where I usually turn. I went all the way to the end until Keola and turned left to Lanakila. There was a terrier and another dog barking. Then onto Kuakini, picking up some trash here and there, and then up Bachelot. The house with the dog had the gate open, so obviously no dog outside today. Then to Bates and Liliha. No sign of Chibi. Right on Judd, down Bachelot, to Bates. Notice a dog behind the fence which was looking at us but not barking. Debated whether to take Kimo to the dog but continued on. Then I saw the owner come out. So I decided to chance it. But Kimo was balking at coming close so I didn't force him. Told the owner he's shy. Back to Liliha. Saw Chibi down the driveway and a older man walking noticed they were the same breed. Chibi saw us but didn't come. Then I called for him and he came running. And I held my fist up to sniff. Kimo didn't seem interested though. Though I finally coaxed him for a brief sniff. Then left on Judd. The Husky was sleeping by the gate. He woke up and was friendly. But once again, Kimo wasn't interested. Though finally they had a brief sniff. Up Iholena, Lolena, and back home.

Was reading the paper on the front steps and Kimo started to bark somewhat fiercely. It was Reina and Amy with Miki and Shammy. I don't think they've walk this was for over a year (since Koa was coming out on the street and growling at them). I held Kimo as they went up the street to Keith's barking. I ripped up some chicken jerky bits to give to him as they came back. Keith was going wild. But Kimo was mostly munching. He acted up a bit as they were passing. But I enticed him more with the jerky and that seemed to work. I remarked to Reina that I hadn't seen them this way for a while. Reina said she didn't want to walk the dogs by herself in case Koa shows up. But it's not as bad with her mom she has the golf club. And can presumably chase away Koa with it.

Gidget the chihuahau

She charmed millions without ever saying a word, and managed to make fast food tacos adorable. Gidget, the Chihuahua best known for her Taco Bell ad campaign, died from a stroke on Tuesday night at age 15.

"She made so many people happy," says Gidget's trainer, Sue Chipperton. PEOPLE met both Gidget and Sue at a Hollywood animals photo shoot in February, where the pup was a consummate pro and delighted the crew with her playful nature.

The mostly retired actor lived out her days lying in the sun – "I like to joke that it's like looking after a plant," says Chipperton – and entertaining at shoots when her trainer brought her along. "Gidget," says Chipperton, "always knew where the camera was."

400 animals rescued

About 50 volunteers from Oahu and the mainland rescued nearly 400 dogs, cats and birds last weekend from a Waianae no-kill animal shelter in one of the largest operations of its kind in the state.

They set up an emergency shelter in Kalaeloa on Saturday and transferred animals Sunday from the Animal Haven, whose operator had died.

Although some animals had to be taken to veterinarians, they all had treatable conditions, according to Jennifer Kishimori, co-founder of the Oahu Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The Animal Haven, a nonprofit shelter that took in abandoned animals for 17 years, was created by Bonnie Pang, who died in her sleep July 13. Her death left her husband of 32 years to look after the dogs, cats, rabbits, ducks and chickens Pang had collected.

"My wife had a very bad habit and an inability to say no," said Norman Pang. "Sometimes people would take advantage of her, but her primary focus was to help the animals and make sure they had a place to stay."

Pang realized he would not be able to take care of the animals and handed them over to the Oahu Society.

***

[9/4/09] On July 13, the day Norman Pang's wife, Bonnie, died, he got a call offering help with more than 400 dogs, cats and birds his wife had cared for at their rural Nanakuli home under the name Animal Haven — which he described as a no-kill hospice for abused, abandoned and unwanted animals on the Leeward Coast.

The call was from Jennifer Kishimori, vice president of the O'ahu Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"I said a friend of his had called, and I asked how could I assist him," Kishimori said. "And he said, 'I'm not able to care for all these animals. My wife passed away. And I need help.' "

What followed over the next five days involved three animal welfare agencies and what's been described as the largest animal rescue operation in O'ahu's history.

And although Pang has not been cited, arrested or charged, he is facing possible prosecution for animal cruelty — even though some animal activists say that's not the case and that Pang's cooperation is what made the rescue operation a success.

"I thought they were here to help me in my time of need," said Pang, who believes he has been the victim of a "spiteful vendetta" that has damaged his name and reputation. "But it's evidently not turning out that way."

Two days after his wife's death, Pang signed a surrender statement giving Kishimori's group full ownership of all the animals at the shelter. Because the O'ahu SPCA is barely a year old, Kishimori requested the assistance from the Humane Society of the United States, which has resources and experience in animal rescues. The national agency accepted and flew a small team to Hawai'i.

Pang had specifically told Kishimori he did not want the assistance of the Hawaiian Humane Society because his wife, who began the animal shelter nearly two decades ago, disapproved of the society's euthanasia policy. That, and the fact that the society had taken Bonnie to court in 1995 for cruelty to animals, although a judge dismissed the case.

On July 19, members of the O'ahu SPCA, assisted by the Humane Society of the United States, began moving dozens of animals from the Pang residence to a hastily prepared emergency animal shelter in Kalaeloa.

But during the move, Pang said he noticed a man and woman from the national Humane Society videotaping and photographing emaciated and sickly animals that had recently come into the compound.

"I questioned the guy about what he was doing," recalled Pang, 64. "And he said, 'Oh, we're doing a training film.' And I says, 'You sure you're not using it for evidence against me?' And he said, 'Oh, no, no, no. We're doing it for the training film.' And I took their word that they were just doing it for training purposes."

Later, Pang said a video of the rescue appeared on the national Humane Society Web site describing the shelter as a "hoarding situation," and featuring emaciated dogs and cats along with descriptions of "open wounds" and "external and internal parasites."

Still photographs from that Web site have since shown up on the Hawaiian Humane Society Web site along with negative characterizations of Animal Haven as a "hoarding/breeding operation."

Inga Gibson, Hawai'i state director of the Humane Society of the United States, said her organization turned video footage and still photographs of the Animal Haven rescue over to the Hawaiian Humane Society when it was asked to do so.

"Any time a request is made (for) information related to a possible criminal investigation, we have a legal obligation to provide that information," said Gibson, who pointed out that the Hawaiian Humane Society is an animal control law enforcement agency, which Gibson's organization is not.

Had the materials not been turned over, she said the Humane Society of the United States could be susceptible to charges of withholding evidence in a criminal case.

Gibson said it is standard procedure for her organization to post videos and still photographs of rescues on its Web site as a way to keep members informed about what the agency is doing.

Pam Burns, CEO of the Hawaiian Humane Society, said it's up to the city prosecutor's office to decide if Pang has violated the law. She said because the Pangs would not allow her investigators to enter the property, it wasn't possible for her organization to make a firsthand assessment.

However, based on the national Humane Society's video footage, photographs and personal statements of one of that organization's on-site rescuers, she said, "We believe that it (Animal Haven) was in violation of the animal cruelty law."

Others don't see it that way.

Alicia Maluafiti, president of the O'ahu SPCA and former community relations director for the Hawaiian Humane Society, said the Pang residence has long been known as a shelter of last resort for sick and abused animals on the coast.

"We believe that Mr. Pang is doing everything he should be doing, and for that he doesn't deserve to be prosecuted," said Maluafiti, who thinks the Pangs, out of kindness, accommodated and cared for as best they could the never-ending menagerie of forsaken creatures they inherited.

"They were overwhelmed. It was through no fault of their own that the people of the community continued to dump their animals there."

Added O'ahu SPCA's Kishimori, "When she (Bonnie Pang) received most of these animals, they were in horrific condition. It wasn't as though she neglected them. That's the way she received them. I'm amazed at what all she did with all these animals — although she was in way over her head."

Maluafiti and Gibson both say the rescue operation went smoothly and quickly because of Pang's cooperation and assistance.

Of the more than 400 dogs, cats and birds taken, only three had to be euthanized. Approximately two thirds of the remainder have been adopted or are in foster care. The rest are doing well and are being cared for by volunteers at the temporary shelter.

separate walks

I was going to walk Kimo, but he signalled that he didn't want to go by running in his house.

So I took Hershey out instead.

Then when I came back, I tried again and he ran back in again. But eventually he didn't run in and I took him for a short walk.

In the afternoon, after finally seeing Star Trek I took him out again and noticed the black tip of his ear was gone. I guess it was a scab after all. Now his ear looks close to normal.

[Thu 7/30, posted 7/31]

adopting 30,000 horses

Thousands of wild mustangs have lived for decades on federal land, protected by the government and sustained by allocations to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). But now the BLM says the program—w hich had a budget of $36 million last year—is overwhelmed, and the horses are in danger.

Since mustangs have virtually no natural predators, herds will double every four years if left unchecked. To prevent overpopulation, the BLM removes thousands of the horses from the wild each year and seeks to place them in adoptive homes. But adoption rates have declined by 36% since the 1990s, leaving thousands of homeless horses in temporary facilities at government expense. Without an influx of new money, the BLM may have to begin killing horses with no adoption potential or selling off horses for possible slaughter.

* * *

Madeleine Pickens, wife of oil billionaire T. Boone Pickens, is an animal lover. As a horse breeder and a philanthropist, she has always considered that people must be responsible for the care of animals.

Wild horses, which date back to the time of the Spanish conquistadors, roam free on federal land in 10 western states and share that land with herds of cattle. To ensure that there is enough food for both wild horses and domestic cows, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management thins the herds, keeping the mustangs to about 27,000. They round up the rest and auction them off.

Recently, the land available to the horses has been drastically reduced by 19 million acres, so the government has had to round up more and more mustangs. Now, 33,000 horses live in holding pens, each horse costing $1,500 a year to feed. By law, if they can't be auctioned or adopted, they are to be slaughtered.

Faced with the prospect of losing these animals, Pickens took action, announcing that she would adopt the 33,000 wild horses that are in captivity.

Pickens said she is in negotiations to buy about 1 million acres for her wild mustang sanctuary in the West, a land mass slightly larger than Rhode Island. And it will be a place where anyone can go and see these wild horses running wild. She would not say where exactly.

"I think a lot of people would love the opportunity to go and see what America's really like, to see our true heritage, which is the wild horses," she said. "Once the horses are installed, families will be able to pull up in the RVs. We'll have hopefully log cabins, little hotels. Children will sit outside and have bonfires."

Pickens plans to have the sanctuary open within the next year.

"I can't wait for the day that the first horse is turned loose and you'll just see him kick his heals up and gallop away with this herd together," she said. "It's going to be so beautiful."

For more information on Madeleine Picken's project, visit her Web site: www.madeleinepickens.com

[via CoachJuneJones (football coach of the SMU Mustangs)]

*** [12/15/13] watched Wild Horse, Wild Ride on Netflix.  Recommended

a lucky 100 horses a year get trained and adopted.  One was adopted and became the SMU mascot.

another trip to the park

After two days of not walking, due to drizzles, I finally took Kimo and Hershey out again. And decided to take them to the park too.

Since my old Corolla is dead, I had to take them in the other Corolla. Kimo jumped in readily, but Hershey didn't want to go in. Probably because he's scared of Kimo. So I took Kimo out and then had Hershey go in. It was still a bit of a struggle but eventually he went in.

The park was empty when we got there and both dogs went sniffing around mostly on their separate ways. After a while, Kimo went climbing up the hill. There was a guy walking at the top of the hill. And Kimo barked at the guy.

Then a big guy brought a little black dog. Kimo went over to sniff and the dog kind of pushily sniffed back. Kimo jumped back and growled but there was no follow up aggression. Hershey initiated play and they chased for a little while. But the black dog seemed more interested in the tennis ball on the ground.

I tried to get them running by showing them food and trying to get them to chase me. But they didn't run consistently. Mostly a fast walk. However at one point, Kimo broke into a run and circled us widely a couple of times.

* * *

When I got home, I took the little mouse to Nuuanu Pali Road and set him free.

[Wed 7/29, posted 7/30]

Kimo and the bee

Kimo was going after something in his doghouse this morning. It was one of those big black bees. I tried to block him with a broom, but it didn't slow him down much.

Finally I lured him out of the house with some jerky. Blocked him from going back in and removed and tossed the bee.

[Mon 7/27 a.m.]

[Friday 7/30 a.m.] Kimo goes after another bee in his house. I swept the bee into the plants in the back but Kimo was still pursuing. Then I got the rake out and touched him on the side to try to block him. He paused momentarily but continued his search. (At least he didn't go wild at the rake.) Finally the bee popped out on to the grass and I raked it up and tossed it over the fence.

Then I took him for his walk. Hershey wasn't here today, but I took him up Puna anyway. It was quiet for a change, no dogs barking. Only the pitbull made a little noise as we came back down. No sign of the white and brown dogs. And the brown spotted dog was lying down in his house looking at us and not bothering to come out.

Indy and Spider go for walk

I was going to help in Kari's move so I decided to take Kimo out for a ride (does that make any sense?)

I headed to Makiki and turned up to look at the intersection where Butchy says the gangs hide out. But the hedge is actually sort of on a wall and gate. Hmmm.

Then I passed the park where I saw a lady in a hat with a big dog. I thought it might be Momi so I parked a little down the street and walk Kimo up. They were leaving when I was coming up and she motioned for me to come since she thought we were pausing because of her big dog (actually it was more Kimo sniffing and peeing). But it turned out not to be Momi and they drove off.

Since I was there I walked Kimo up by the pumping station and around. Then we sort of ran back. Not really in great control, but better control than most times in the past.

Then we went to Donna's house. As we came to the back, Donna opened the door. And Kimo went up on her. Donna put a little screen barrier to block the walkway on the side of the garage and Kimo kind of wandered around in the brush and sniffed. In the meantime we did a little weeding.

Then I took Kimo home and went to buy some sushi and pizza.

There was still time, so I decided to go to Cathy's mom's place to visit Spider and Indy. It was quiet when I drove into the driveway, but soon enough the barking began as I went to the back gate. Then somewhat surprisingly the barking subsided as I brought out the jerky. Indy readily went for it, but Spider was kind of cautious. So Indy wound up with most of the treats.

Then Cathy leashed up Spider so I wouldn't get bitten again and I treated them inside the gate. Then I wanted to take them for a walk. Indy didn't want to get leashed, so I told Cathy to put the treat on the other side of choke chain loop and Indy popped her head right through.

Then we went for a walk. At first I was going to walk them both, but decided to take Indy and Cathy took Spider (and a watergun). Indy was kind of acting on the choke chain and Cathy thought I might have been choking her. But it was more her struggling on the choke chain. And I made sure that the chain was high up by her jaw so it wouldn't choke her throat. Indy settled down a bit, but Spider was lagging behind. So I went to get him, but the choke chain high up high and walk them both.

Indy still struggled a little and I put them both on my left side with Spider on the outside. And they walked better that way though they were still a little active and ahead of me. Coming down a hill I saw a girl bringing her dog into the house. I thought they might act up at the sight of the dog, but I don't think they saw the dog and so they didn't.

Coming back, I let Indy in the gate and left Spider just outside the gate with me. That way I could treat both of them without Spider taking the food. Plus get Spider more used to me since he was under control with the leash.

Then I brought out the rawhide bones. Spider took it somewhere in the back and came back. In the meantime, Indy was chewing on her bone and snarled off Spider when he wanted to come take it. I went looking in the back for Spider's bone. But Cathy said he already ate it. I found that hard to believe since Kimo takes like a month to finish his bone.

I tried going back out the gate then back in. Spider still barked but less intensely.

Well, we'll see next time.

[Sun 7/26, posted 7/27]

Hachiko (and other dog movies)

TOKYO (AP) - Richard Gere stars in a Hollywood remake of Japan's long-cherished story of Hachiko, a faithful dog that died at a train station waiting for its master. But "Hachi: A Dog's Story" is more about the dog than about Gere, the 59-year-old actor said Wednesday.

"On this movie, I was definitely second-class," he told reporters at a Tokyo hotel.

The movie premiered in the U.S. at the Seattle International Film Festival in June, and opens in Japan in August.

The story of Hachiko [ is a legend among Japanese, a pet-loving nation that honors self-sacrificing loyalty.

Hachiko, the story goes, always used to wait at Shibuya train station for its master, a professor at the University of Tokyo.

Even after the professor died, the dog waited every day at the station for a decade, until it died in 1935.

People were so moved they built a statue of Hachiko at the station, which remains a popular rendezvous spot for Japanese today.

*** [12/29/13]

Hachi is currently on Netflix.  Another Japanese dog movie is Quill: the life of a guide dog.  Another happy/sad movie.  And more movies like Hachi.

And be sure to check out the 100 dog movies reviewed by crox.  (Well, maybe not.)

Christie joins the walk

Christie is coming over in the morning because she doesn't want to stay home after the house was robbed on Monday.

I went to take Kimo out and asked her if she wanted to come walking too. But she wanted to sleep. But then at the last minute she joined us.

So I told her to take Kimo and I took Hershey.

We walked pretty well and we went to Makanani and up Skyline. I decided to go up Puna to see if we could see the white pom. As we went up, a lady pushing a carriage with a small shit tzu (I think) trailed us for a little while. But we pressed on as I wasn't sure how Kimo would react.

Kimo was panting as we came back, and he didn't stop to lick himself or pee so much. So I'd say it was a successful walk.

[Thu 7/23, posted 7/25]

still a work in progress

Kimo is definitely better but isn't there year and needs constant work.

He was lying on the front steps and I wanted him to get up and tugged his leash up. He didn't want to move and growled and went a little violent. I persisted and finally got him up but he wasn't too willing. So I got him down to the landing brought him back up and tried again. He still wasn't too happy but got up with less protest.

Then I thought, how would I feel if I was lying down and somebody just comes by and pulls me up with a rope around my neck? Still he's not supposed to get all wild.

[Wed 7/22, posted 7/23]

Kimo and Melinda

I don't know if it's Kimo or me. But Kimo reacts to Melinda. Maybe it's her.

On Thursday, I took Kimo and Hershey up the street and was waiting by Yokomoto driveway as Petey was barking. Melinda came home. I wasn't watching her, but Kimo went wild as she drove in her driveway. He redirected to Hershey and I pulled the leash up to catch him.

Then on Sunday, Kimo was in the front and I heard him barking. Melinda had stopped at the top of the hill and he was barking at her (or the car or both). I came out and she didn't look at me as she continued on her way. At least I couldn't tell as she had her welder's mask on. One of her daughters was in the car too and she kind of glanced at me or Kimo I think.

[Sun 7/19, posted 7/20]

leash under the door

Kimo still reacts (attacks) when the leash is moved under his feet and he's not looking.

One way to try to train him out of this (Sort of like training bite-inhibition) is to trigger the reaction and try not to get bit.

What I did today was to put his leash under the security door and slightly move it when he's not looking at me. I tried it a couple time and he noticed it but didn't get up to attack or anything.

Maybe it's working. Or maybe I was just too far out of range to be processed as a threat.

[Fri 7/17, posted 7/19]

Hershey and the malamute

Decided to take Kimo and Hershey to the dog park even though it was starting to drizzle.

When I got there, the park was empty and there was no drizzle.

Soon after we entered, a couple came with a biggish dog.

Kimo went up to him (I knew he was a he because I saw him pee on the fence when he came in). And they sniffed before Kimo walked away.

Then Hershey came up and did his play bow. And away they went. (Video on my camera which will hopefully be linked here)

This happened for several sessions. But later Hershey started to get too excited and went up to hump him. So I went over to break it up. But he kind of got off before I had to touch him.

I thought the dog might be a huskie, but it turned out the dog was a malamute 7 months old.

As we left, there was a summer fun program on the basketball court rehearsing Heal The World.

Kimo jumps on Ann

Took Kimo out in the morning.

Kimo was going home with Fifi and Ann was coming back with Mochi. Mochi didn't seem too friendly to Kimo. But Kimo jumped on Ann and Ann pet him with no incident. However Kimo growled and snapped a little at Mochi as he came closer.

So I guess he's attracted to Ann. But not sure about Mochi.

[Sun 7/12, posted 7/13]

[7/13] Kimo seems to be somewhat friendly toward some people as he seemed to want to go up to Gerald as he dropped off Hershey.

a squeal and a bite

Kimo sensed Keith and started his wild routine. I took him up the front and up the steps.

He acted up as they came back and I grabbed him. But I guess I had the wrong angle or put too much pressure and he squealed and went down to the ground.

Some minutes later he was lying down and I lightly pulled his leash which was under his legs. He jumped and attacked me. I put my arm up (I was sitting down). He jumped on me (because I can feel it a little bit in my shoulder), bit my hand and scratched my leg. I stayed in this defensive posture and after a few moments, he came to his senses and I had him lie down next to me which he did readily.

The major damage was to the back of my hand where you can see the mark. But actually he barely broke the skin.

Don't know if the squealing was related to the attack. Hope not.

In any case, two things to watch for. Try to be more gentle grabbing him. But it's hard to be precise when he's in a high state of tension and energy. And be careful pulling the leash under his legs when he's not looking.

Come to think of it, maybe he was still in somewhat elevated state of excitement from the squeal.

[Fri 7/10, posted 7/11]

Hershey on the run

I went out a little late since it was raining. Hershey was on the steps but went down as I went up with Kimo with the morning paper.

Hershey seemed in a playful mood. I let them loose to run and Hershey ran to the side of the house. But he did come when I knelt down and told him to come.

They chased some more. Hershey went down and Kimo went on top of him but didn't seem aggressive. I took Kimo off and had him lie down. Then we went for our walk.

Decided to go to the park. It was drizzling but as it let up, I took them to the volleyball court. No chasing this time, but I did make them run/walk for food. Also I saw a piece of cord on the fence and I used it to try to repair some of the cut gate.

Kimo behaves and doesn't

Took Kimo in front to poop/pee, but then he went up the front steps. Guess he doesn't want to walk. Skip it.

That afternoon in the back, Kimo started acting up running back and forth. He sensed Keith out with Pat. Took him in front and had my hand on the back of his neck (lightly). He was composed with no outburst.

But then later he barked and reacted when he saw Pat coming out in the front yard to pick up poop.

Later that evening, he heard him barking a bit wildly. I went out and saw Melissa turn around with Rudy and Blue. Evidently she didn't want to deal with it.

I took Kimo out the gate and he started pulling me up the street. Seems like he was in tracking mode going after R&B. We went to beginning of the street (Koa was outside on a rope. When I went to pet him, I saw Eddie was out with him. Maybe he tied him up when R&B passed.) Then after we reached the end, we turned and Kimo walked mostly nicely back home. Though Keith barked when we passed in front.

[Wed 7/8, posted 7/9]

Keith doesn't go wild

took Kimo out front to poop and he ran up the side and jumped the wall. I knew where he was heading but he made it up Keith's steps anyway. Kimo was barking at the door but surprisingly Keith just looked outside and didn't bark.

After getting Kimo calmed down, we went for our walk and Mrs. Tsutsui was outside. She brought out Hershey and we went up the street.

As we got to the beginning of the street, Max was barking. Di brought him out for a brief interaction. Hershey stayed down by the street like he was shying away from Kai.

I was curious how they Kimo and Keith would do in the afternoon. Unfortunately there seemed to be little change as Kimo had a couple of outbursts and Keith responded in kind.

[7/6, posted 7/7]

Fourth of July

Took Kimo out, RMS was out.

Kimo seemed relatively calm so I followed slowly at a distance. Or was it Kimo following slowly as he was sniffing the side.

As they came back, I held Kimo and there was no (or little) problem.

In the late afternoon, I decided to sweep the back and clean out the dog house. And put his pillow in the house. And trim some branches.

That evening, there were periodic fireworks. Keith kept barking and barking. While Kimo went into his house and was lying on his pillow.

[7/4, posted 7/7]

Koa goes to the vet

Koa had tapeworm. I tried to get some medicine for him again, but they said since he was due for an exam I had to bring him in.

I got there and opened the door. But somehow the leash had come off over his head and Koa ran loose outside. But I went to the vet door, opened the door, and Koa went in. There was a person in there with an old Corgi mix and she held him in case of trouble.

Koa didn't want to go on the scale so I had to take him on and block him from going off. He was around 32 pounds if I remember. (Now I see 33.5 pounds on the invoice.)

Finally it was time to go in. There was no glimmer of recognition from Gleason, so I said "you don't recognize me." I'm guessing he wasn't sure, so he didn't want to say anything.

He got a booster shot and nose drops. And his partner combed him for fleas and found some. I asked where I could get a comb like that and they said they sell it. Didn't know that.

He still wasn't sure about the cause of Koa's nose condition, but it didn't seem to be getting worse. So he suggested to ease off the prednisone to every three days instead of every other day and see how it goes.

Then for the bill. $166.22! $37.45 for the exam. $19.95 for the fecal exam. $42.75 for the heartworm test, $5.75 blood processing fee, $15.85 for bordetella/parainfluenza booster shot. $21.00 for the Drontal Plus. $15.99 for the comb.

That's more than I pay for myself in medical bills. Maybe I'll take him to Kamiya next time. But I don't know how much he charges either. Well, I'll save the invoice in case I decide to take him there next time.

[Fri 7/3, posted 7/4]

petting Kimo

Pat took out Keith, so I took Kimo out. Mr. Yokomoto was out, so I went walking with him.

He reached back to pet Kimo and I was apprehensive. He kind of touched him on the top of his head and no adverse reaction. Maybe I shouldn't have let do that.

In any case, maybe he's getting better. Now I'm less careful petting Kimo. I used to always go from the side. But now sometimes I reach over his head from the front (or at least not from the side) and maybe he's getting used to it.

* * *

On the other hand, the Sills door was open and Kimo acted up passing by. At first I thought it was Kona. But later I saw Kona in the back. So maybe it's a cat or something. Or the association of Kona.

[Thu 7/2, posted 7/3]

under control?

Took Kimo and Hershey out. Lately Kimo doesn't really want to go up the street and I have to encourage (tug) him up the street.

After we get to the top of the hill, he's better (in the sense that he doesn't want to turn back as much).

As we proceeded down the street, Reina Miki and Shammy were coming. I stopped and waited at a distance. Kimo seemed more in control though he was still breathing fast on occasion. As they ambled down the street, I followed in slow pursuit. Kimo seemed to dilly-dally. He was sniffing the side, but I suspect he was in no hurry to close the gap.

As they started to come back, we went a little up the driveway and I held Kimo as they pass. There was a glimmer of a coming outburst but it never really happened and they passed without an outward incident.

On to Lolena Place, Kamalii, Skyline, Makanani. As we neared the big white and brown dogs, a guy was across the street walking his small white and brown dog. The dog was acting up and he jabbed him in the neck and downed him on the ground. The dog was on his back for a while until he let him up and continued on. Obviously a Dog Whisperer watcher.

Neuter Now

Veterinarians on Oahu have received numerous calls from pet owners eager to get their pets spayed or neutered since the Hawaiian Humane Society took back control of the city program last week. "We received the notice by mail, and the next day the phones started ringing," said Dr. Eric Ako, a veterinarian at the Pet Doctor clinic in Kahala. "People are calling, asking, and setting up appointments. We received a lot of calls. I think a lot of people were waiting."

The Neuter Now program, which was restarted Wednesday, allows pet owners to spay and neuter their pets for $50 for male and $75 for female animals. Owners can purchase certificates at the Hawaiian Humane Society or any satellite city hall and redeem them at participating veterinarian clinics, saving hundreds of dollars.

tripped

Kimo was lying down, so I went next door to get Hershey.
Kimo finally got up, so I took them both out.

As we made it toward the beginning of the street, Kimo pulled me back. Koa was waiting by the fence so I took all three of them out.

With the three dogs, Koa pulls more than usual. We struggled to the park. Koa pooped and I saw he had tapeworm again.

Then on to the volleyball court. I made them run for food. Koa and Kimo ran but Hershey was still timid and mostly walked. But one time Kimo was out of control. He ran under my legs and tripped me up. Evidently not thinking when he runs.

[Tue 6/30, posted 7/1]

Kimo Van Gogh

Donna took Kimo walking, so I went to tennis.

When I came back, mom said Kimo has a cut ear. I didn't know from what. Just that she didn't want to put on bactine for fear of being bitten. (Later I found out that's what Donna said.)

It turned out Kimo was in the car coming back and Donna rolled up the window while talking on the phone to Timmy. And it just so happened that his ear was in the way.

I put on some bactine. He growled a bit but was OK when I soft-sshh'd him.

The tip of his ear is missing hair. But it should grow back. Doesn't look like any ear is missing thankfully.

[Mon 6/29, posted 7/1]

Hershey on the loose

I heard some howling in the afternoon, but I didn't think it was Hershey since it sounded far away. But then I heard Mrs. Tsutsui outside calling for Hershey. He had run out the door when she opened.

I retrieve a leash and climbed the wall. Evidently the carpenters working on the house had tried to retrieve him. But maybe that's when he howled. They pointed out where he went. I showed him some food (jerky), kneeled down and he came to me.

When I brought him back, Mrs. Tsutsui wasn't too happy and said bad dog and wanted to spank him. But I said don't hit him, he doesn't know what he's doing.

I fear Gerald might give him lickings though. Maybe. Maybe not.

[Mon 6/29, posted 7/1]

black dog at the gate

I took Kimo and Hershey for their walk. I decided to take them up Puna. The big black furry dog was at the gate barking at us (the same one who was loose the first time we went up Puna. Didn't see the white pom and came back down. The smallish brown dog across the street was barking and a lady going out in the car asks if Kimo was a certain breed (I forget what she said) and I said he's a Japanese spitz.

Went back down and the black dog was still there. Despite the barking, Kimo didn't seem affected and went over to sniff. The dog let out a loud bark as he came close. Kimo was startled but didn't react badly. I guess that's a good sign.

Parade of Dogs

For the second straight day, Donna took Kimo for a (long fast-paced) walk with her.

After he came home Melissa and another friend walked Rudy and Blue. Kimo went wild. Calm him down.

Then came the lady who power walks following her husband following her dog. Kimo goes wild. Calm him down.

Then came Jumbo Koa with the whole family (preceded by Christian scootering down the street). Mother, father, son, daughter (I assume that's their family). Kimo goes wild. Calm him down.

This is good. More opportunities for Kimo to be calm.

[Wed 6/24, posted 6/26]

Donna take Kimo walking

Donna was going to walk with Allie and came to pick up Kimo.

That freed me up to play volleyball but I stopped by to see how they were doing. They were outside Allie's house and the guy with two Japanese Spitz's was just leaving them. Evidently Kimo was OK interacting with them. Noticed how white they were compared to Kimo. I don't really notice how brown Kimo looks until I see a well-washed dog. Well Kimo's back and body is sort of white.

[Tuesday 6/23, posted 6/26am]

Hershey rolls / Kimo plays?

Took Kimo and Hershey out for their morning walk. Hershey sees some poop on the yard at the lady with minpin's house. Goes up to it and starts to roll. Pull him off.

(Why do dogs roll in poop anyway?)

Then I took them to the park volleyball court. I started to run and Kimo started to run too. And went a little wild running in circles. He got excited and seemed to want to play with Hershey and hump him. Don't remember that he ever tried to do that to Hershey before. Hershey was stiff like a statue and seems scared to engage Kimo now. Can't blame him. Later Hershey went over to the fence on the side and sat down.

I tried to block Kimo from going on top of Hershey and then he started going after me nipping at my heels when I turned away.

(Why do dogs nip at your heels anyway? Herding behavior)

I think getting Kimo in that state is the first step in natural dog training. Or something like that. Just that I don't know how to do the second step in channelling that drive. Gotta read that book one day..

[Monday 6/22, posted 6/24]

Ryder

Ryder is Jacy's and Clem's 6-month old dachsund

Seems very friendly as he ran into the room and sniffed me when I was installing Avast on Billy's computer.

Also likes to play with toys. Played with the stuffed moose for a while. Then later bit the antenna off the bug slippers.

I have pictures and video on my camera.

[Sunday 6/21, posted 6/26]

Kona jumps Koa

I was taking Koa out for his walk and was walking down past the Sills house. They had some visitor outside and the door was open. Kona came charging out and jumped on Koa. I was surprised. I paused a moment to see how bad it was and when I saw it was an attack, I grabbed Kona by the back of the neck and pulled him off. Wasn't much of a problem for me since I've had lots of practice grabbing Kimo when he's in a wild state.

Chris was very apologetic but I said no damage.

But actually upon examination later, I saw a small bite on Koa's ear. I put on some bactine.

This was surprising to me since I always thing of Kona as a friendly dog. But I notice that he reacts differently when he sees Koa as opposed to when he sees Kimo. And oddly Hershey growled at him on the rare time that they took him out when I was out with the dogs. (I may have mentioned this earlier.) I theorize that maybe Koa used to get loose and bother the dogs by just wandering in their territory. Mochi has an aggressive reaction to Koa too. (I may have mentioned this earlier too.)

[Sun 6/21, posted 6/26]

Kimo catches a mouse

Went to feed Koa. Looked in the garbage can where his food is kept and saw a dead bird. Dumped the bird and tried to wash out the can. Better, but still a little filthy.

Kimo was in the back by the stone wall. I thought he was looking for a cat since a cat was sitting on the Nakano stone wall. After a while it looked like he caught something. I thought it was a moth since it looked like there were wings flapping or something.

But later when I looked on the grass, I saw it was a dead mouse.

[Sat 6/20, posted 7/8]

Kimo gets a bath

Finally decided to give Kimo a bath.

Lifted him up into the sink. Formerly I was very apprehensive about lifting him up. But take a deep breath. One hand under chest. Other hand on collar. Lift. No problem.

Except Kimo's kind of too big for the sink now. Choose shampoo. Faucet doesn't reach all areas of his body. Pour some water into bucket.

Finally I thought I got all the areas of his body. Rinse. Repeat.

Carry him down. Shake.

Hmmm. Kimo now looks two-toned. He's mostly white on his back and middle section. But still brown on his legs, rear area, and head.

OK, I'm not a professional.

Took him for walk. Went up to say hi to Sam who was inside the gate. Diana comes out with Max. Sees Kimo and says what happened?

OK, I'm not a professional.

[Fri 6/19PM, posted 6/20AM]

Koa loose

Took Kimo and Hershey for their walk and saw Koa on his pillow. He sees us too and comes out on the street. Obviously not tied up.

I head back home to get a leash. Didn't want to go downstairs because last time Koa didn't follow us and went on his way. This time, Koa actually kind of led us back to my house.

Went to get the leash and Kimo goes up on the landing to lie down. Apparently he doesn't really enjoy walking.

So I left him home and took just Koa and Hershey. Went up the street a bit and decided to try Hershey's choke chain on Koa again. He still pulled but not overly strongly. And I lazily let them go in front and lead me to the beginning of the street.

Before the beginning, I shortened the leash especially since we were going to cross the street. Over to Lolena Place.

More under control on the way back.

I took them to the back and the lady who was taking care of Koa said she's going back to the mainland to work. So I guess it's back to feeding Koa for me. Still going to have to block the gate.

It was actually blocked the last time, but somebody cleared it. Maybe they thought it didn't look too nice. Guess I should talk to Toni.

[Fri 6/19, posted 6/20]

Max the pom

Kimo was barking at birds in the morning, so I took him out earlier than usual

We joined mom, Amy, Harriet walking. Then the lady who told me about her pom that looks like Kimo was there with her pom. It was a white pom with a few light brown patches. She held him. And I asked her if she had a leash to see if I could introduce them.

The pom was kind of hyper and had an odd soft bark. He kept wanting to go after Kimo and Kimo backed off and even growled once. I tried to walk them, but the pom was struggling with it. After a while, the lady said she had to go to work. And gave the pom back to her husband (I assume) in the car. I asked the lady what the dog's name was. It's Max (another Max). Funny that I didn't ask the lady her name.

Going back, I saw Ann out with Mochi, so I joined them. Soon enough, Paco shows up and Kimo starts sniffing. But then he heard a dog barking and charged in the direction of the bark. Which is an improvement because in the past, he'd go after whatever was near.

We walked to the end of the street and coming back we saw Amy out with Miki & Shammy. (Well I think that's what happened.) I followed at a distance but turned around when Kimo looked in. Ann continued on. I held Kimo as they came back to pass us and he maintained control (didn't go wild at least). However on the second pass, he had a brief outburst.

[Sat 6/13, posted 6/15]

Natural Dog

[6/12/09] Noticed that naturaldog has become a follower on twitter. (I had become a follower some weeks before.)

naturaldog is the twitter account of Kevin Behan the author of Natural Dog Training (which I have mentioned before several times in particular with regard to Lee Charles Kelley). He has a website naturaldogtraining.com on which there are several articles.

There's a video of him on youtube from a show called Quantum Canine. There's also a promo video for his website. (Hard to see at the beginning.)

I see there's more episodes of Quantum Canine at the Fact TV Media Gallery.

The video files are in flv format and at first I couldn't figure out how to save them. Keepvid didn't work. But I finally was able to do it in IE using these instructions. Though I had to increase the space allocated to the temporary internet files. I tried uploading to youtube, but the file was too big. They only take video 10 minutes long and these are 30 minutes.

The next problem was how to play it from my computer. Apparently I didn't have any program on my computer that could play flv files. Windows Media Player didn't work. So I tried flvplayer and vlcplayer both among the most popular video players on download.com. I liked vlcplayer better.

***

[5/29/18] Kevin Behan explains how he developed the pushing technique

running on the court

Kimo was barking from back. There was a new lady walking with Amy and Harriet, and later mom. Maybe a visitor from the mainland?

I let Kimo in front to pee & poop, then he jumped over the stonewall, ran around the back of Pat's house and up the steps before I could catch him. Keith goes nuts. I down Kimo with a squeal but he's wild for several seconds before settling.

Take Kimo and Hershey out. As I walk pass, Koa comes through the loose gate and on to the street. I open the garage door but don't see his leash. I go downstairs and the lady (still didn't get her name) gets it for me.

Finally track down Koa at Lolena Place where he runs to me.

Down to the park. To the volleyball court. After letting them walk around for a bit, I put Hershey's choke chain on Koa and practice walking. Then with Koa leash, I walk Koa and Hershey together. Surprisingly Kimo starts following us.

Then I run in an attempt to get them running after me (then having them lie down for treats). Koa runs. Kimo runs. But Hershey walks. Which is disappointing because Hershey is the one who likes to play and run. But evidently he's wary of running with Kimo and Hershey. Especially since he was attacked twice before by Kimo when he went wild (first when I lifted Kimo's paw off food and he bit me. second when they were in my backyard and they saw a cat. That was the time Hershey chased the cat and I wound up finding him at AOP.) Anyway. Koa was the most straightforward chasing me. Kimo ran, then kind of ran in a large circle excitedly. Hershey trotted when he saw that there was food to be had.

After that, I took them to the playground set to sit and rest. Kimo showed he was comfortable by lying down in front of Hershey. Hershey was kind of wary and didn't seem to completely relax with Kimo close by. Koa was closest to me and lay down.

I took Koa home with everybody leaving (the lady was going surfing and Troy was going golfing. I guess Toni was staying home). I looked for the leather leash (the one that Hershey gave to me, but didn't see it. The leashes used to be hanging in the garage but are no longer there.)

[6/12/09, posted 6/13/09]

dogs on Makanani

Took Kimo out Thursday, Hershey didn't come this morning.

Went to Makanani and two dogs were out at that first house. Both were barking. One was the basenji with short hair and was more excited. The other was a smaller brown dog with longer hair. That one seemed more calm though it was barking too. The man was outside in the yard, but I didn't let Kimo come to the gate to sniff because a small child was outside too.

Then to the next gate with the old grey dog.

The two dogs across the street were barking again. But I took my time walking and sniffing on the other side and they eventually quieted down as we slowly made our way down the street. The brown one was even lying down by the gate.

[Thu 6/11, posted 6/13]

Kimo and Hershey at the dog park

I took Kimo and Hershey out and mid-walk decided to try to take them to the Moanalua dog park.

I put Hershey in the front seat and Kimo in the back seat, to keep them separated on the ride (in case Kimo goes wild at something outside).

Kimo only went partly up hill. And Hershey played chase with a small white & brown dog.

So I'd say the outing was successful with no incidents.

[Wed 6/10, posted 7/23]

four in the court

take Kimo & Hershey out
Koa waiting by gate, take him too
see Diana out w/ Max, secure leash on Koa and proceed
Tell Di I'm going to park and she says she meet us there
walk to park, Diana and Max meet us there (they drove)
See her with guy with small poi dog / guy goes to picnic table
We go to volleyball court
dogs bark at girl with black dogs
Di says one of them is good, but the other one tried to attack her thru fence one
Max declines to play w/ Max, so they go home
Make them run after me for food, Kimo and Koa run but Hershey only walks
make them lie down
practice walking Koa w/ Hershey's choke chain, not too bad

RMS, Spider and Indy update

took Kimo out, Koa was loose and I let him in the gate.

Good thing too because the next thing I knew I saw Reina taking out Miki and Shammy. Kimo didn't react too much so I followed them at a distance.

Didn't want to get too close yet, so I turned Kimo around but he kept looking back and I had to nudged his head forward

After that I went to Cat's house, partly to return Kari's jacket and partly to test the rawhide bone on Spider and Indy. Decided not to bring Kimo so as not to complicate things.

As I pulled into the garage, I was surprised to hear no barking, but soon enough there they were at the front gate barking away. They quieted down as I fed them food bits through the fence. Cathy told me to give the rawhide bones and they ignored it at first. Then I decided to go in. Spider started barking wildly and nipped me on my left food just below the ankle.

Then I sat down and kept feeding them and Spider got a little more comfortable coming close each time before running away. Indy was chewing on the bone and gave up. Spider took over. He didn't finish in five minutes, but still was much faster than Kimo. Maybe fifteen minutes compared to a month for Kimo.

Spider would be OK when I was sitting down feeding him. But when I got up he would start barking. And bit me on my right thigh. I think he's intimidated by me standing up.

Finally Cathy decided to throw the rolled up paper at Spider when he barked at me. The first time she missed and hit Indy. Luckily Indy didn't seem to fazed. Next try, she got Spider and he kept at a distance.

We'll see what happens next time.

Cathy's mom gave me some cotton with hydrogen peroxide. When I got home I put on bactine. Kimo licked it. Don't know if he's licking the wound or the bactine.

[Sat 6/6, posted 6/8]

Petey on the loose

I heard some barking and saw Petey was loose. I went out and got close, but then he ran home. Then I saw Shirley was out too and she was friendly and came to me.

[Fri 6/5, posted 7/28]

long walk

Took Kimo and Hershey out and decided to go long

Hala, Aupuni (lots of dogs, including dog who looked like he had mange), School Street, around WalGreens, up Kapalama, Kealia (noticed Hershey limping), Makanani

They were dog tired.

[Fri 6/5, posted 7/28]

it was just a nudge

brushed Kimo in the morning.

Then took Kimo and Hershey out for their walk.

Went to Makanani, the old dog seemed friendly today, but still barked as we left.
The dogs across the street barked.
Skyline, then up Puna, the black dog barks
back to Makanani, small brown dog comes to fence but don't let Kimo sniff

back to Kula. Reina w/ M&S was chatting with Amy & Charlotte. I had Kimo and Hershey sit at a distance. Eventually they passed. But then Kimo had an outburst after they walked by. Have to watch Kimo a little longer.

Then I read the paper on the front steps.

Kimo was lying down by my feet. Accidently nudged him slightly and he jumped up on my legs growling. After a couple seconds, he recognized me and backed off.

[Thu 6/4, posted 7/31]

bites upon being awakened

Kimo's not the only one (see Wake-Up Call). Here's a letter to Dr. Fox.

Dear Dr. Fox: We have a 9-year-old Shih Tzu who gets really ugly come sundown. If he is awakened from a sound sleep (at any time), he will bite hard on whatever he can find -- including hands and arms. He growls and snarls until he can be calmed down.

We have had him since he was 6 weeks old. He also is afraid of loud noises. He sleeps in our bed and when he is up there he gets testy.

He does not enjoy being around little children and has been kicked a couple of times. Otherwise, he is very friendly and runs to meet company on their arrival. He lies on my lap when we are watching TV or reading the newspaper. Sometimes, at night, if I pick him up, hold him and pet him for a while before putting him on the bed, he seems OK. However, if awakened: Katy, bar the door.

We cannot remember when this first started. Do you have any idea why this is happening? What can we do to correct it? -- C.M., Granbury, Texas

Dear C.M.: Your dog has developed a conditioned emotional reaction that is timed with altered brain function associated with the post-sleep arousal mechanism. In other words, his brain chemistry is off kilter, possibly associated with low serotonin levels.

You need to discuss this with a veterinarian who could prescribe and monitor various supplements and herbs, notably melatonin, L-tryptophan and valerian. In the interim, you may want to try putting a drop or two of lavender (L. angustifolia) on a bandana around his neck before he naps. This essential oil can have a dramatic calming effect on dogs.

* * *

Actually that sounds worse (or at least different) than Kimo's condition. I think Kimo's is a protective reaction. I'm thinking some event might have happened to him when he was asleep. So now he reacts defensively when he wakes up or even is startled while resting. But maybe this lavender oil might be worth a try. I wonder where you can get it.

Today, I was reading the paper on the steps and Kimo lay down next to me. I slightly nudged him with my food (unintentionally) and he turned and jumped on my leg and growled. Then realization set in after a couple of seconds and he backed off. Maybe it's progress that he didn't bite me, but maybe it's because my hands were safely away from him.

three to the park

Koa was loose, followed him up to the road to house up Max's driveway and took him home.

Took him and Kimo out and Gerald brought Hershey so I decided to take all three of them to park.

I guess I must have taken them to the volleyball court. And we all rested on the playground set for a while.

Then I took Kimo home. The lady in a bikini (she must have just come back from surfing or swimming) was in the back and I told her he was loose and gave her the scoop that he goes under the gate.

[Wed 6/3, posted 8/2]

Goodbye Chloe

took Kimo out and Gerald drops off Hershey (with Lindsey snoozing in the front seat).

Went to the Naio, but the old dog was shy. He came out to the gate when we were leaving, but retreated when we came back (when I saw him coming out)

A bunch of small dogs were barking. Puppies.

At the end, I saw Malia outside so I went up the road. She related that Chloe had a tumor and it was decided to put her down. How sad. 12 years of age.

[6/2, posted 6/3]

runny poop again

Noticed Kimo's poop has been getting runny again, so decided to call the vet.

Took a poop sample over and it turned out he has the same thing as last time.

Anyway, he got the same meds, so I figured it's the same.

Plus he also has this digestion pill which is new.

Take half-a-pill twice a day. Gave him with the pill pocket. May need to buy more pill pockets.

[6/8/09] Kimo's poop is good now. Called vet to follow-up and the guy (vet sr.?) said if his poop is OK, then don't need to come. But later he called back after consulting and said since Kimo's problem was recurring might be better to bring another poop sample. Asked vet what Kimo has and he said Campylobactor.

a walk w/ RMS

Kimo didn't want to walk (lied down when I went to get him) and I didn't want to force him. So I took Hershey out by himself.

Reina (and Miki and Shammy) was out talking with Charlotte (I think I recall). So I decided to stop and walk with them. Last time, Amy told me to go ahead, but Reina didn't protest and the dogs seemed OK with it. No news is good news so RMS seem pretty much OK. The only thing is that Miki had a doggie root canal.

[5/27]

The next day I took Kimo out and Amy was out taking out the trash container. I followed her down the driveway and checked out the work as Roy was getting his stonewall repaired. Looked like some patching. I guess they patched back the rocks that were getting loose. I approached the gate with Kimo. Kimo was especially interested in going to the gate and what was a little surprising was that Miki kind of backed off the gate as we were approaching.

[5/28, posted 5/30am]

The intelligence of dogs

I was looking up the Siberian Husky breed and came across this link to the Intelligence of Dogs.

The most intelligent are

1. Border Collie
2. Poodle
3. German Shepherd
4. Golden Retriever
5. Doberman Pinscher
6. Shetland Sheepdog
7. Labrador Retriever
8. Papillon
9. Rottweiler
10. Australian Cattle Dog

I was surprised to find that the Shih Tzu, Beagle, Basenji are toward the bottom. Japanese Spitz (or German Spitz or American Eskimo) not mentioned. But the Pomeranian is fairly high.

But sometimes being intelligent is not necessarily a good thing. Maybe Kimo is intelligent after all.

nipped in the nose

Took Kimo out with Hershey. Saw small brownish dog at Makanani. I remember a few weeks back there was a friendly dog at Makanani which Kimo sniffed. But this time, they sniffed and the dog nipped Kimo in the nose. Kimo was startled and pulled back and growled a bit. But didn't go wild. Noticed a small drop of blood on nose (which is how I know he got bit).

A couple of houses down, the old brown dog which usually comes to the gate just lay down as he saw us coming. And across the street, the dogs which usually bark at us were pretty mellow this time and one of the dogs was whining liked he/she wanted to come out to us (or have us come to him).

When I got home, I hosed his nose a little and let him drink from the hose. And dabbed it with a little bactine. He's sleeping by the front door now.

Dog Day Morning

Memorial Day

Decided to take Kimo riding. Went to Cathy's mom's house. Saw Cathy's car but wasn't sure if I wanted to wake her. Finally parked a few houses away and took Kimo out. The neighborhood dogs started to bark and there were a lot of dogs. There were three small white dogs across the street that I don't remember before. A couple of brownish/black dogs (don't really remember). And Spider and Indy were going at it full force.

Took Kimo around the block and on the way back, saw Cathy's mom outside and then Cathy came out. Took Kimo in the garage as the dogs continued barking. Then fed Spider and Indy through the fence as Kimo sat down mostly with his back to them. They were still kind of barking but would pause to eat. Mostly Indy as Spider would come to the gate, take some food, then back away.

Cathy finally quieted them down by sprinkling water on Indy and showing Spider the rolled up paper.

As I left, the white dogs were gone. The only dog not barking was a Husky looking at us through at the corner of a fence. Hmm. Maybe Husky's are friendly because there's a friendly one on Judd. There was a big dog at a gate. Might be a mastiff. Kimo went up to the gate but the dog barked or growled and Kimo backed off.

Off to Donna's house. I was going to head to the backyward, but saw Christie coming out. So I let Kimo loose and he ran in the house. I think Timmy and Mars got kind of scared and Donna grabbed his leash and led him back outside. And Christie petted him for a little while.

They were off to the airport and I took Kimo around the block. Saw Wellington outside with a couple of guys looking at his sprinkler system. Let Kimo sniff him and he turned around and pet him (I was watching to see if Kimo would stiffen but he seemed OK.)

Continuing on, Kimo charged the driveway at the house he doesn't like on Nehoa. I calmed him down and walked him back and forth and he seemed better.

Off to Pauoa where I saw a couple of Japanese Spitz's (looked like JS anyway) a month or so ago. This time the dogs weren't in the yard. Maybe they were inside sleeping. So I walked around a bit. And when I got back to my car parked at the park, I heard a dog barking at us. It turned out to be a Japanese Spitz tied in the yard. Later a loose Husky came over and they sniffed before running off. I sat down and was kind of hoping the Husky would come over to us, but he just ran up the street.

Then to 7-11 to use one of my coupons. Unfortunately there were not shady spots. So I had to park in the sun. Got a hot dog and Mountain Blast and when I came up Kimo was sitting on the floor of the car.

Took him home and gave him water and a cube of ice. I think he's tired.

[5/25, posted 5/26]

Simon Says

dog vs. kids playing Simon Says

[via raynette]

Dogwalkers, etc.

Erin Gerwig is a go-getter, as shown by how quickly she moved up through the ranks when she worked for Voyager Submarines. Now she is running a successful business that takes care of pets for customers who typically are either away on vacation or putting in long hours at their jobs.

Mark Coleman: How long have you been running Dogwalkers etc!, and what was your inspiration for starting it?

Erin Gerwig: I started it by myself in June of 2001. The inspiration was that I was working as a boat captain for a tourist company that shut down and let all its employees go. So basically I was left without a job, but I saw it as an opportunity to create something for myself, so I could be my own boss. And, you know, I've always loved animals -- that's always totally been a part of my life. Also, dog-walking, pet-sitting was starting to catch on on the mainland -- I'm originally from the D.C. area -- but it wasn't in Hawaii, so I thought I'd give it a shot.

Bow wow boarders

Inuki, a 1-year-old Shiba Inu, was so anxious about staying home alone when both her owners were at work that she would chew up books and magazines and leave a trail of teeth marks on the walls.

It was a problem, until she became a regular at doggie day care.

While popular on the mainland, the niche for doggie day care businesses in Hawaii is just beginning to grow as more dog owners -- or dog parents -- seek the service while they are away at work.

down Skyline

Kimo was lying down in the front and I figured it was time to walk. The leash was under his feet but I gently tugged it anyway. He charged, I blocked with my arm (I was sitting on the step) and he (fairly) quickly came to his senses.

took Kimo and Hershey out. Koa's owner was going out to golf. Big Koa was behind his gate and Koa was looking from inside the house behind the screen door.

went to Lolena Place then Skyline and decided to go down Skyline. Toward the bottom of the hill, there was a bunch of dogs barking down the driveway behind the gate. It looked like around 6 or 8 beagles and another bigger dog.

A couple of beagles looked like they were fighting when they got excited. And one of the beagles was fighting with the big dog. The "fights" didn't last too long. And it didn't look like there was much damage. Soon enough, an older Japanese (looked like) man came out. He didn't look that cheerful to me. Maybe he breeds beagles?

Proceeded to Houghtailing, then to Naio. Around the bend, a couple of friendly looking dogs started barking (they didn't look too friendly when they were barking though). Soon joined by another neighbor dog. A lady looked from the door.

Continue on.

Then a small dog was barking on the right (makai) side. I edged Kimo closer and the dog backed away but eventually came back and sniffed. Hershey seemed hesitant but came over to the gate, but I don't remember them sniffing. Then we were off and the dog resumed barking.

Back up Maalaea, then up Hillcrest and Makanani. Back through the construction. To the gate with the old brown dog. I noticed he's actually darkish brown with white spots, not black. The dog was lying down but came to the gate. Kimo wasn't eager to go to the gate, but eventually he edged to the gate and they sniffed.

On the way back, the HandiVan dropped off Betty. Kimo came to her and she petted him (though I was watching). Hershey sat down on the side, but at least he didn't howl or growl at her.

[5/20am]

more barking

Writing this on Ubuntu on Arlene's computer

was barking last night to go poop, but i don't think anything came out, only air

then barked at paper guy this morning at 3:40AM, but quickly moved away from ewa gate when he saw me coming

barked to go poop this morning about 6:30AM. I took him to the ewa side, but he went to the gate. Doesn't want to poop in backyard. Pooped some on the ewa side. Then some on the DH side. Then ran and jumped the stonewall and went into Pat's shed.

Went to front steps. Stayed with him to see his reaction to Cheung's car. Didn't bark at Malia's neighbor's car. Didn't bark at Herbie's car. And sure enough, barked at Cheung's car. Pulled him back quickly. Got the side-eye from daughter and mother.

quickanddirtytips

While browsing through podcasts on itunes (trying to troubleshoot ipod connection to computer) yesterday, noticed The Dog Trainer at quickanddirtytips.com.

I listened to the barking episode and it made sense to me.

It actually is easier to listen via the website rather via itunes. Though I guess you can save it in itunes should the website ever go away.

friendly cat

took Kimo out since he was running back and forth (it turns out Keith was out with Pat).

Went up the street and sat in front of Tanabe house. There was some barking from Petey (I assume) at us plus Herbie was out playing football with his son.

There was a black and white cat at Ito's. I thought it might have been Musubi, but then the other black and white cat came sauntering over and sat down by us next to Kimo. I think the cat might be romantically interested in Kimo. I watched and held the leash just in case but no problems.

Pat saw us sitting with the cat and seemed amused.

[5/18, posted 5/19]

more dog encounters

took Kimo out early and walked a little with mom.

up the street, big Koa was barking. Since the garage was empty, I took Kimo inside. They sniffed, and I made them sit for treats. Kimo growled and I made him lie down.

Then Brit came walking with Rudy and Blue. Make Kimo lie down. Brit remarks they don't have to move after all.

As BRB headed back, I decided to take Kimo down the Miyamoto driveway. Well, he kind of decided for me. He wanted to go into the garage as he must have remembered the treats he used to get there. Miki and Shammy were by the gate, but not much reaction.

Went to get Hershey and saw Koa by the gate. But didn't see him as we came back.

Reina was coming out with Miki and Shammy. I stopped to let them go first. But she wanted me to go first.

Kimo acted up passing by. But he fairly quickly snapped out of it. Gave his head a few tugs forward as he kept wanting to look back.

Head out to Makanani and Aulii. The friendly Jack Russell was loose. I kind of paused and the Jack Russell came out to greet the dogs. They sniffed. And Hershey postured.

On the way back, we greeted the old black dog by the gate.

[5/18, posted 5/19]

Koa and the old dog

[Sun 5/17, posted 5/19]

took Kimo out, see RMS coming
Koa comes to gat, take Koa for walk too
Lolena - see little terrier out in yard (usually at door barking)
Makanani, Aulii, Puna, Makanani
old black dog comes to gate. dogs sniff w/ no incidents

hold on

Took Kimo out since big Koa was being walked and Keith and Kimo were barking.

Then Pat took Keith out. I decided to take him up the sidewalk. As Pat and Keith came up, I held Kimo kneeling between him and the road. He breathed heavy but didn't go wild. Progress?

Later at Charlotte's place, I saw a UPS truck coming. I forced Kimo to lie down, but he panicked as the truck came back and forced his way up.

I'll call the score 1 to 1.

[5/13, posted 5/14]

Hershey eats a doughnut

took Kimo and Hershey to Lolena Place. Hershey was sniffing at the house at the beginning of the street and found a doughnut. He is not easily discouraged from eating and it was soon devoured.

(The next day, Wednesday, he found some bread on Hala Drive and ate that. Let's just see he has a nose for food.)

Tue [5/12, posted 5/14]

peace to the jogger

After taking Kimo and Hershey to the park, I took the dogs home.

The jogger came running by and Kimo didn't bark. I wasn't sure that he wouldn't bark as the jogger made his return trip, but was pretty sure that Hershey would. I took a chance and went over to Hershey who was still on the steps and distracted him with treats as the jogger came back. Kimo didn't bark. And Hershey was successfully distracted. Only Keith barked, but it seemed milder than usual.

The peace didn't last too long though. As a lady with a big dog came walking by. I had Kimo lie down but he didn't want to go on his side. So I put additional pressure and he squealed a bit as he went on his side. It turned out to be an American Mastiff (as I asked her as she went by). Hershey howled.

More howling in the afternoon as Hershey howled at the two neighborhoods girls from up the street.

[Thu 5/7, posted 5/8]

Afghanistan's pig

KABUL (AFP) – Afghanistan's only known pig has been taken off display at Kabul Zoo and locked away to avoid panic among visitors who may be worried about swine flu, the zoo's director said Wednesday.

"We put the pig temporarily in his winter house under quarantine because of swine influenza," director Aziz Gul Saqib told AFP.

"Most people don't have much knowledge about swine influenza and seeing a pig, they panic that they will be infected.

"Just to address our visitors' concerns, we have put the pig away from public view for the past two days," he said.

The interned animal -- known simply as "Pig" -- was one of two given to Afghanistan by China in 2002, months after the ouster of the hardline Taliban regime, to help reestablish the zoo after it was destroyed during civil war.

However, the other pig -- and their offspring -- were killed in an attack by a bear.

Despite being the only pig, it was not too lonely, Saqib said.

"The pig made friends with a goat and was happy sticking to the goat in the enclosure, where some other goats and deer were on show for visitors," Saqib said.

Gayle and her gang

I took Kimo out since Keith was out. I went out to Makanani, Skyview, Hillcreast, Kamalii.

Going back I saw Gayle and her gang entering our street and decided to join her. She seemed to want to pet Kimo but I discouraged her. I mentioned that I see her on twitter, but she didn't remember how/why she added me. Kimo was going OK, but Nacho must have sent a message and he went briefly wild. After he calmed down, Gayle mentioned that I might want to muzzle him (maybe because I said he's bitten a lot of people in the past) or socialize him at a place like Ohana Day Care. I said he didn't like the muzzle and would paw it off and that I'm not worried for myself (when he gets wild) but for other people.

Continuing on, big Koa was being walked (by the big guy and the small boy trailing). And there was a slight commotion (acting up) as they crossed paths. She kept telling them to focus.

Anyway, I stopped and sat down by the storm drain as Gayle paused by Keith's house as he was barking and then proceeded up to Malia's house where Petey and Chloe were barking. She took out Gizmo briefly and I remarked that he's smaller than the other one (Puppy). She said he's 5 pounds, but used to be 10. He still has a young face and looks happy riding in the carriage.

I started walking back with them but she told me to go ahead. Another one who doesn't want to walk with Kimo. I proceeded and turned around as big Koa came walking back down and followed them back (the boy on the scooter fell but got right back up). OK bye bye doggies.

[Wed 5/6, posted 5/8]

half a charge

After our morning walk, I was looking over the paper on the front steps with Kimo on the landing. Suddenly Kimo turned and charged at me. He went up on my arm as I blocked then stopped short. After that he was OK.

He must be getting better since he didn't bite me this time. (Is how I'm trying to look at it.)

[4/27, posted 4/29]

Fifi has a cone

As I went for my morning walk, I saw Kimo (the human) out with Mochi & Fifi. Fifi was wearing a cone because she had some kind of ear plug problem. She also has some skin problems.

Anyway, no problems with the dogs reacting with each other though I kept Kimo a little distance away. So he doesn't go crazy with every dog. He doesn't interact too much with Mochi and Fifi any more (especially Fifi), but he must still remember them.

Coming back, Jumbo Koa w/ Jason was out of the gate. For a change, Koa stayed when Jason told him to sit. And we walked past with no problems.

[Sun 4/26, posted 4/29]

Musubi pays a visit

I had Kimo on the front steps after our walk. Then I noticed a dead bee by the fence and went to pick it up.

Kimo ran down as I picked him up and I opened the gate to see where he would go. He ran to the yard by the palm tree and I saw Musubi there. Musubi didn't have his collar on, but I could recognize him by the lack of hair on the side of his eyes. (I think that's Musubi anyway. It might be Malia's other black and white cat.) Kimo stopped short and I grabbed the leash but left it loose. He sniffed and Musubi seemed mostly passive. No problems.

I took Kimo in the back because I was going to take mom to Chinatown. Soon enough Musubi showed up at the back gate. Kimo seemed a little unsure because he's usually protective in the back. But no barking. So that's a good sign. For Musubi anyway.

a mild charge

I was on the front steps reading the paper with Kimo on the landing. I ruffled the paper (not on purpose) and Kimo came charging at me.

At least he stopped short though and I don't think he made any contact with me. He wasn't even sleeping either. Well maybe one day he'll learn. Or maybe he's learning already since he (or me) cut short the attack. Well maybe one day I'll learn.

[Sat 4/18, posted 4/21am]

Kimo goes wild

I took Kimo out over the Hershey's house and as we started going to sidewalk, Kimo got frisky and started running around. He ran around in circles and around the Tsutsui bush. It was like he wanted to play. But in the meantime Hershey stayed still, like he was afraid of what Kimo was going to do.

Continuing on, Big Koa was loose on the street which is rare. Mrs. Wong was out there and seemed to get a little worried as Koa started sniffing Hershey's butt. Again, Hershey seemed a little scared and didn't move. I was worried more about Kimo and he kept his distance. She finally was able to drag Koa back inside (which isn't easy since he's so big, not because he's wild or anything). But then Kimo got wild. I held the leash high but he jumped up and bit my hand. I tugged the leash a couple of times and he finally snapped out of it. Then he went more or less back to normal.

I was planning to take them to the park, but then I saw my hand was bleeding a little. But it wasn't that bad, so we went to the park anyway.

When we got there we saw the guy doing tai chi (or whatever) and exercises on basketball court. And there was a guy with a nice white dog. Sort of looked like big Kimo though he wasn't completely all white. But then the guy seemed wary of us and turned back away out of the park.

We got to the volleyball court. Let them walk around some. Make them come and lie down for some chicken jerky.

Good enough. Head home.

John Garcia on Ellen Show

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByLLDuTeekM

big Koa on the loose

I saw big Koa loose across the street. It was unusual because none of the dogs noticed and so no barking.

I went out and patted my leg for Koa to come and he came trotting over. Then I leashed him and took him by the front steps fence. Kimo got up and came to the fence and went wild. After a while, he would sit on command. But when I turned to leave, he would go wild again. Finally, I got him to sit, give him some chicken jerky and left when he started eating it.

As I went up the road, Hershey noticed and started howling.

Big Koa is not really trained on the short leash as he would pull. But he really didn't pull when I had the leash loose, though he led the way.

When I got to the Wong's, I saw the gate was open. I don't know if they left it open or he opened it. Koa sat readily for a biscuit. Then I left. A friendly and mostly gentle dog. Thank goodness because he's so big.

Kimo pukes

I brought Kimo's food out but he didn't seem interested in it. I didn't want to coax him to eating it, so I just left it and went back in the house, hoping he would eventually learn to eat it without me being there.

He barked a couple of times. So I thought he wanted to eat but he still didn't seem interested. Maybe he wanted to eat treats. And the food isn't that tasty.

Then later I come out and see him heaving and puking on the grass. Not sure why, but it didn't look good. Sometimes he vomits after eating grass. But this is the most that I've seen him do it.

I brought his bowl back in the house, but left some kibble on the cement for him. But he never ate it.

Later, he was lying on his pillow. And I couldn't help myself and hand fed him some kibble by putting on his pillow next to his mouth. Then I sat down on the chair and he finally went over to the bowl and ate all the food.

[4/15, posted 4/16]

The next day, he seems better.

eat Kimo eat

Today, Kimo wasn't interested in eating the apple chunks which had his medicine. Not hungry I assume.

Last time, I just put it next to his mouth while he was lying on his pillow. But this time, he wasn't lying on his pillow.

So I threw a kibble then two on his pillow and he went to eat it, then lay down. Then I fed him the apple bits.

Then I tried putting some kibble in his Kong and he ate some more.

Maybe I should just not feed him if he's not hungry. But I don't usually feed him that much. Though sometimes he asks for seconds.

Kimo goes walking (and walking)

Donna was supposed to take Kimo walking with her and Allie. But I took mom to the doctor and Donna wasn't at our house, so I thought she might have gone ahead without Kimo.

So I drove down and parked on Bates Street. I didn't see Donna's car, so I took Kimo to go see Chibi. On the way, Donna called from our house. And then she came down.

We were going up Liliha and saw Chibi (and the owner), but then it started to drizzle and they decided to go down Liliha instead. We went down to Vineyard and back up Nuuanu where they stopped to get some food from Sam's Deli. In the meantime, me and Kimo waited outside.

Finally we got back to Allie's house where Donna took a look at the TV Allie won. All in all, Kimo behaved himself and only pooped once. I think he walks better in a group.

On the way home I saw Malia walking Chloe. So I decided to go up the street and overtake her. He started breathing heavy a bit, but was OK after a while. And we walked back pretty much OK (except for Keith barking his head off).

Then Malia took Chloe home and retrieved Shirley and Petey. We walked a bit and the leashes were getting tangled, so I volunteered to walk Petey. When I reached to get the leash, Petey charged Kimo and Kimo went wild (though not as wild as he can get). It took a little while to get the leashes in position in position and for them to settle down. But then the walk proceeded OK.

On the way up, we saw Diana out with Max. I was holding Petey's leash too loose and he charged Max. Max didn't react much. We finally got Petey reeled in. Diana informed us that Brit and Melissa's (Rudy and Blue) house got robbed. Not good.

Then the walk back went mostly well except for one charge by Petey behind my legs which I caught in time.

I brought Kimo in the back. Then a while later, I heard the dogs barking. It was Koa loose again. I called him to me and reverse-leashed him before he ran away. I took him home and Toni had a visitor outside going back in. Toni greeted me. I thought she was going to let Koa in, but she closed the door. So I let him in the side gate.

After that, Kimo seemed tired (can't blame him). At first he didn't want to eat, so I would keep bringing his food back into the house. It looked like either he was waiting for the right signal to eat. Or wanted more tasty food (like his chicken jerky that he seems to like). Then about the third time when he barked for his food, I brought it out, set it on the floor and started to read the paper. Then he ate it. All of it.

I thought that might be the signal he was waiting for. So I went in and got some more food. Put it down and started to read the paper again. But he didn't go for it this time.

Well, he'll eat when he gets hungry enough.

[4/13, posted 4/14am]

Kimo's chewing and eating habits

I notice that Kimo likes to chew on his chew bone when I'm sitting in the back reading. But when I go back into the house, he stops chewing. Can't figure out why that is.

Maybe it's related to his eating habits. He generally won't eat his food until I come out and watch him eat. Unless it's something really tasty like chicken jerkey or certain dog biscuits. Maybe it's because I trained him to sit down and wait first before he can eat. Unintended consequences.

Obama dog

WASHINGTON (AP) — It's decided: the Obamas have chosen a 6-month-old Portuguese water dog to be the first pet.

In what was one of the White House's most tightly kept secrets, President Barack Obama's daughters, 10-year-old Malia and 7-year-old Sasha, have settled on a black and white pup, a White House official speaking on the condition of anonymity told The Associated Press Saturday night.

The dog, a gift from Sen. Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts who owns several Portuguese water dogs himself, will make his big debut Tuesday afternoon.

The Washington Post reported in its online editions Saturday night that Obama's daughters chose the name Bo for the pup because first lady Michelle Obama's father was nicknamed Diddley, a reference to the singer "Bo" Diddley.



[via hawaiipetmag via twitter]

Kimo on the steps

In the afternoon, Kimo was barking again. It was the Wong kids in the street.

I took him in front and saw Mr. Chung and Yokomoto taking their walk. So I decided to join them even though I didn't have a bag with me. He pooped by the fire hydrant so I marked that down in memory.

Returning, Malia's dogs started to bark at Kimo. I sat him in Yokomoto driveway then edged closer to the Hayashida yard. It took a while, but the barking subsided a bit. Shirley was the first one to give up and went somewhere in the back I assume. It was mostly Petey sporadically barking.

I took Kimo home and went back to pick up his poop (on Hayashida's yard). The Cheungs returned home but I pressed on. Disappointingly, Malia's dogs started barking at me (I thought they were barking at Kimo all this time). I went to pick up the poop and Malia's cat came out. I thought I heard the Cheungs calling the cat, but the cat just lay down on the road near the curb in front of the house.

Then I stayed with Kimo on the front steps reading the paper. Pat brought out Keith and I calmed Kimo down after he reacted. Then the Wong kids were on the street again, and Pat took Keith back up the steps. Later I could hear Keith going wild in the house.

I continued reading the paper and must have unwittingly moved/pulled the leash while it was under him. Kimo went wild and attacked. I must have blocked him partially with the paper because I saw part of it torn later. He calmed down without biting me though I have a scratch on my leg. Then I made him lie down.

I think these attacks must make good jiu-jitsu training. Staying calm while under attack. I guess that's one way to look at it.

[Wed 4/8, posted 4/9]

Big Koa and Koa

Kimo lay down when I was going to take him for his walk, so I figured he didn't want to go and trimmed some branches at the back fence.

Finally I took him out, I saw RMS coming back, I ducked into Big Koa's place.

Kimo wandered to the fence where they sniffed. No incidents. But Big Koa whined as I was leaving like he wanted some treats or something.

I'm trying to lead Kimo more on walks again (after seeing The Wasserman/Bubba episode again). I had lapsed to mostly letting him walk on a loose leash and letting sniff and mark whenever he wanted.

Later, after returning home, I heard Kimo and Keith barking. It was Koa loose again. I suppose someone must have opened the garage door. He came to meet when I called him to be petted. But when I was going to walk him him, he ran up the Hatanaka driveway.

[Wed 4/8, posted 4/9]

Princess

Went to pick up mom's car which had the fender dent repaired. There was a good looking pitbull as I got out. I knelt down and patted my thigh and she came to me. Pretty friendly.

Later I remarked to one of the workers that the dog was friendly. And he called for her Princess. But she was nowhere to be seen.

[4/7, posted 4/9]

Kimo and Miki

I took Kimo and Hershey out and saw Reina walking Miki and Shammy.

I stopped, Kimo growled then calmed down a bit. So I decided to follow them at a distance. But I didn't think Kimo was ready, so I turned around as they came back and waited until they went down the driveway. Then we proceeded to Lolena Place where we saw a lady snooping around the houses. It turns out she was working for the upcoming census.

[Tue 4/7, posted 4/9am]

Brit turns around

took Kimo out and decided to go on a second lap with MHA
Here comes BRB. Kimo goes wild. Force him to lie down. But Brit turns around commenting that her shoulder isn't worth it.

[Saturday 4/4, posted 4/7]

Eddie is back

I went to walk Koa in the afternoon and saw somebody had given him food already as a little was uneaten. Then I saw Eddie was back. I gave him the update (tapeworm, ticks, etc.) and the leftover meds.

OK, maybe I'll get a vacation for a month.

Headed back, I see the paper guy coming which Kimo has been running to the fence and barking lately. I stood by the Tsutsui mailbox to see if I could deflect his barking. Not really too successful, though he wasn't super intense. The paperguy gave me the paper and Kimo ran to the DH side. I went over there and eventually Kimo turned away.

[4/1, posted 4/3]

Koa goes off the wall

I took out Kimo & Hershey in the morning. Saw RMS out, so we waited by Koa's house. Soon enough I hear Koa whining, so I give in and take him out too.

Struggle down the street with the dogs pulling and decide to go to Lolena Place. We went along the wall and Koa either fell or jumped down (and it's a pretty long way down). What to do? I still had hold off the leash and tried to walk him back toward the driveway. And as we neared the driveway, Koa decided to try to jump/climb back up. He was almost at the top and in danger of slipping back down and I pulled him up over the wall.

So we finally made it to Lolena Place which was greeted with multiple poops.

On the way back I cinched up Koa's leash and Hershey's choke chain high on their necks and we walked pretty well headed back.

[4/1, posted 4/3]