Need another reason to step out with your dog? Here it is: The Hawai'i Kai Dog Walk, which first began in 2005, will be held again this year on June 7 at the Hawai'i Kai Park and Ride on Keahole Street.

This event, which has become an East O'ahu tradition, is organized by Hui 'Ilio Hawai'i, aka the "Dog Park People."

The day promises fun in the sun with our canines and a great way to meet other dog lovers. Check-in begins at 6:30 a.m. and the walk starts at 7:30 a.m. There are two courses: a mini course for older and smaller pooches and a longer 2.3-mile course for those who don't mind walking a bit more.

The park is celebrating its first anniversary this June, hence the theme, "Off Leash and Loving It." Event sponsors will be giving out free goodies and discount coupons. Music, information booths, a photo booth, face painting (for both young and old) and a doggie pool will add to the merriment.

Elaine Dobashi, president of Hui 'Ilio, says, "Last year we had approximately 400 participants and we expect more this year."

Pre-register by May 15. Forms can be downloaded at www.hui-ilio.org and will also be available at the Pet Expo this weekend.

The pre-registration fee of $20 includes a T-shirt, a goodie bag and chance to win fabulous door prizes. At the walk, walk-in registrations are welcome, however T-shirts and goodie bags will be given only while supplies last.

Proceeds will help Hui 'Ilio Hawai'i create more off-leash parks in our community, which means more canine fun for all. See you there!

What did we do before we had dog parks?

Animal lover Leslie Kawamoto has been with the Advertiser for 19 years, or 133 in dog years. Check out her blog at http://HonoluluAdvertiser.com/Blogs.