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CNN Live Saturday

Rescued Dog Finds New Owners

Aired August 31, 2002 - 17:24   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

FREDRICKA WHITFIELD, CNN ANCHOR: Remember this sight? The dog that was rescued last April after 24 days adrift in a burnt-out tanker in the Pacific? We didn't want to leave that story adrift. Here's an update from reporter Kirk Fernandez of affiliate KHON, Channel 2 in Honolulu.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

KIRK FERNANDEZ, KHON CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): It's been quite a ride for this brown and white, mixed breed terrier, fresh out of quarantine, bug and disease-free. She made a grand new appearance with her new owners, Michael and Helen Kwo (ph) at the Honolulu Airport.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I know that Captain Chang (ph), who was the pet's original owner, would have loved to have gotten her back, but at the time he didn't even have a ship, so it's wonderful that the Kwos (ph) have stepped forward.

FERNANDEZ: Five months ago, the ship's crew was rescued following a fire that killed one man, but Hokget (ph) was left aboard. Thanks to private donations, the Humane Society and Coast Guard concerns about fuel on the tanker, the ship and dog were eventually found. Because of all the media coverage, Hokget (ph) may draw extra attention to her new Eva Beach (ph) home, and so her new owners are naturally concerned about her security and safety.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: That's why the people want to take picture, I say, you better not.

FERNANDEZ: She did not bark once during this appearance and seemed quite nervous. But one thing she'll never have to be worried about is her next meal.

(on camera): The gifts have not stopped for Hokget (ph) yet. In addition to the first-class flight home, she'll get a free bag of dog food every month for the rest of her life.

Do you think there's a possibility that Hokget (ph) could be a spokesdog for Iama (ph)?

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Oh, you never know. With a story like that, I'm sure we'll take advantage of it as best we can. So yeah, I don't know what kind of spokesperson, but I'm sure you'll see the dog again on a commercial or something, yes. FERNANDEZ (voice-over): And after the boat rides, the plane rides, the escalator rides and more, who could blame Hokget (ph) for not wanting to take another ride -- home.

At the Honolulu Airport, Kirk Fernandez, Channel 2 news.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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