Japan Update is introducing Ichiro Gushiken, a veterinarian who’s also the owner of Animal Hospital 22 in Yogi, Okinawa City.  Gushiken will use this column, Pet Talk, to answer questions from pet-loving foreigners who often don’t know where to turn for advice.

Pet Talk by Ichiro Gushiken

Veterinarian Ichiro Gushiken

Our Animal Hospital 22 is visited by dozens of foreigners each day, and in addition to examining and giving care to their pets, I’ve also the chance to listen to owners’ worries.  Each column will be dedicated to answering some of the questions I am asked most often.

A frequent question is “Is the hospital open late at night, or where I should go if my pet suddenly gets sick at midnight?”

We’re always open until 10 p.m., because we realize many people go to work early in the morning, and can more easily bring their pet in at night.  Of course, pets don’t work on our human schedules, and may have medical issues later at night.

We will keep our hospital open, if necessary, after the 10 p.m. closing time. ANEX is a 24-hour hospital with a bilingual staff always on standby. In case of an emergency please contact: 090-9786-8822 (in English) nights between 10:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m.  Okinawa Veterinary Medical Association also has member hospitals, which are open nights, but not many have English-speaking staff. Their evening hours are from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.

A client says he owns two dongs, and wants to know “where I can go out with them?

All parks in Okinawa allow pets, but please remember to keep them on a leash at all times. Also, it is important to never forget to pick up after them. There are some places where you can let your pets run free without a leash, with an entry fee required. There are also a few beaches where you can enjoy a swim with your pet although the number of such beaches is very limited.

There are also some facilities that are designed for dogs to run free and get exercise, and then there are café’s where pet owners and their pets can enjoy a treat or snack together.

Pet Fair PET-DATE Event

I would also like to introduce an event scheduled for Nov. 10, where you can come and have fun with your pet. The event will take place at Nishihara Marine Park. In this event, we also will have dogs and cats searching for a home, and also answer any questions concerning how to train your pet. There will also be dog runs and athletic contests.

Entry is free and bilingual staff will be on hand. If you wish to give up your pet, and to find it a new home, please feel free to contact us. To sign up, call Pet Support Service at (098)983-8111. They’re available 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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