Pawʻina event highlights our love for man’s best friend

by Shannon Tangonan | July 14, 2024

Lulu (@mermaidpup on Instagram) was ever so patient with me as I used a pink dog polish pen to paint about eight nails on her pretty white paws. It may not have been “dog salon” quality, but it complemented the floral sundress her mom made for her and she was unfazed by my mediocrity. After all, she was one of my first pawdicure customers (or victims).

Thatʻs what you get with an untrained volunteer dog manicurist. We were told no artistic ability was needed so it was a perfect opportunity for me. On Saturday, July 6, I was among 40 Hawaiian Electric volunteers at Pawʻina 2024, an event organized by Guide Dogs of Hawaii, which has served the blind and visually impaired since 1955.

“When Guide Dogs of Hawaii reached out asking for support, there was no hesitation to assist an organization that’s committed to helping others — especially when dogs are involved!” said Talin Sokugawa, Hawaiian Electric manager of forecasting. “Our participation allowed Guide Dogs of Hawaii to engage with the community and showcase the amazing work they do.”

While I painted Lulu’s nails, her brother, Kai, was a bit nosey. To earn a treat, Kai’s dad told him to give his sister a hug. Donning a blue and white aloha shirt courtesy of Isle Style Pets, Kai happily obliged. And, yes, he got a treat. Kai later returned to the salon booth to get his nails painted blue.

If I hadnʻt mentioned that Lulu and Kai were dogs, you might have thought I was describing human beings. You see, for many of us, dogs aren’t merely pets. Our Hunter, an 8-year-old Catahoula hound mix, is like my second child. However, Hunter wasn’t invited to the Pawʻina because he would’ve sniffed and jumped on every human and canine there.

The Pawʻina highlighted how guide dogs help the visually impaired and blind lead more independent and productive lives. In essence, guide dogs help keep their humans safe.

At Hawaiian Electric, safety is our no. 1 priority. So when we urge customers to prepare for emergencies, it extends to their pets as well — canine, feline or otherwise.

While you’re gathering canned goods and non-perishable foods for the humans in your household, make sure you have backup pet food as well. Emergency management officials have recommended two weeks of food and water for each household member — and that should include your pet(s).

Other important pet preparations:

• Have a “go” bag ready with a collar, ID tag, harness, leash, treats, toys and other important items.
• Ensure you have a safe way to transport your pet, which could include a carrier or kennel. Don’t forget towels, blankets or a pet bed so they can sleep comfortably.
• If your pet has medications, remember to have a backup supply, enough for at least two weeks.
• Assemble a pet first-aid kit.

Even the most attentive pet owners need reminders about emergency prep for their furry friends — and that includes me. I’ve been known to let Hunter’s kibbles run below the necessary two-week backup supply. I’m sure he forgives me, but I need to do better.

Maybe the humans we interacted with at the Pawʻina have their emergency pet gear in order. If not, I hope they’re reading this blog. Many thanks to each and every dog and human who attended the Pawʻina, including my coworkers and their ohana members who gave up part of their Saturday to volunteer.

During morning and afternoon shifts we set up and put away tables and chairs, collected donations for raffle tickets, gave out doggie bowties, helped owners create a keepsake with their dogʻs paw print, used dog chalk to “tattoo” dog fur, collected trash and more. Everyone, including the guide dogs, had a great time.

Even if you didn’t make it to the Pawʻina, there are still ways to support Guide Dogs of Hawaii, which offers free services for the blind. You may not get a free pawdicure if you make a donation, but there’s always the next Pawʻina.

Shannon Tangonan is a senior communications specialist at Hawaiian Electric.