Sidney (Sid) Hogal

Sid is an American photographer and travel blogger who is one of the main human protagonists of vol. 1. He is the owner of Shiori, a Shikoku dog he adopted from Japan.

Appearance
He is a tall, somewhat muscular guy with long blonde hair, blue eyes, and a goatee. He typically dresses in comfortable or athletic clothing, but will occasionally wear jackets along with them. Sid will sometimes be seen with his camera around his neck, as he is a photographer.

Personality
Sid is an easygoing, friendly, and kindhearted person. Although he is somewhat of a lone wolf, he is very outgoing and always eager to meet new people. Sid is adaptable and worldly as a result of his travels. Despite being carefree, he seems grounded as well. As a dog owner, he is also very loving and well informed.

Backstory
Sid became interested in learning more about Shiori's breed and became a supporter of an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving it. During one of his many trips to Japan with Shiori, he met the professional dog breeder, Tobio Akiyama. He agreed to breed Shiori with Tobio's stud, Daichi, and their litter of puppies was born months later. This breeding partnership led to a strong friendship forming between the two men. 2 years after the puppies were born, Tobio was injured in an accident and left unable to care for Shiori, Daichi, and their son, Shiro. Putting his trust in Sid, he had them sent to live with him in the U.S. Sid did not hesitate to take on this important responsibility.

Once the dogs arrive safely in America, Sid does his best to take care of them. However, Shiro is very shy around him and misses Tobio. Sid sees this and tries to comfort him. The day after their arrival, Sid takes the dogs to a local park to get some exercise and fresh air. Daichi and Shiori enjoy it but Shiro is still hesitant. Sid offers treats to the dogs and Shiro begins to loosen up a little. Sid is overjoyed that he finally seems to trust him. Later, a man who looks like Tobio catches Shiro's attention and he runs off after him. When his parents and Sid realize that he's gone, it is too late. They look all over for him but he is nowhere to be found. Sid has no choice but to return home with Daichi and Shiori and relay the news to Tobio. Tobio is furious with Sid for losing his beloved dog. Sid is also deeply distraught. He promises his partner that he will find Shiro.

Relationships
Sid respects Tobio immensely and is a loyal friend to him. He loves his dog Shiori and has adopted her family into his heart as well.