Cat coins from the Isle of Man

Recently at a street fair in Portland, Oregon, I happened to spy a bunch of very beautiful cat coins from the Isle of Man. The coins had been made into rings, pins and necklaces. I had never seen anything like that, so I decided to do a bit of research and find out the origin of the cat coins.

The Isle of Man uses the Manx cat as one of the symbols of the island nation and its unique culture. Manx cats are a breed of domestic cat, originating on the Isle of Man, with a naturally occurring mutation that shortens the tail.

The reason for a Manx cat’s lack of a tail arises from a spontaneous mutation, which eventually became common on the island because of the limited genetic diversity. Many Manx cats have a small stub of a tail, but they’re best known for being tailless. Along with being tailless they also have elongated hind legs, a rabbit-like rear-end and a rounded head so that their appearance is unique. On the Isle they are called stubbin.

Manx cats are known as highly intelligent and playful. They can learn to play fetch and may also follow their owners about like dogs. Along with their unusual appearance they are prized for their excellent hunting abilities. Manx cats are so special that they grace money, stamps and have become the symbol for a nation. Manx cats are so cool they deserve their own coin.

WHO’S WHO AT CAPS?

Tom and Jeri have volunteered at CAPS for over two years. I had to laugh when they told me their names. I grew up watching the Tom and Jerry cartoons on TV. If you remember Tom and Jerry were a cat and mouse. The Tom and Jeri of CAPS fame are a lovely couple who everyone would like to clone. They are the best! Both Tom and Jeri are dog whisperers who make sure each and every dog is walked before they leave. Their affection for each other and all of the dogs is obvious. They are loyal, kind and love all of the animals. Our sincere appreciation goes out to Tom and Jeri for their commitment to the community and CAPS.

WHO’S NEW AT THE CAPS ZOO?

Do you believe in soul-mates? If you do, we have two dogs who are soul mates forever. Lovin’ and Abbey have are true friends and companions. They came into CAPS together and would love to find a home where they could live. Lovin’ is a five-year-old black and white Great Pyrenees-Akita cross. Abbey is an eight-year-old golden retriever cross. Please consider finding a place in your heart and home for these soul mates. We also have frisky kitties and puppies. CAPS’ policy, however, prohibits adopting out puppies or kittens under the age of six months to a home with children under five years of age. This is to protect both the children and the animal.

CAPS NEWS AND EVENTS

Be sure to mark Saturday, May 9, on your calendars for our annual Bark in the Park 5K walk/run, which will be held in honor of David Martinez. The first 100 to cross the finish line will receive a medal. Bark in the Park will be at the fairgrounds. Complete details are available on the CAPS website.

CAPS will be at Walmart on May 23 with Ki and our Kissin’ Booth . Ki really looks forward to being there and seeing friends. Don’t disappoint Ki, so come by. CAPS also has new designs of hoodies, shirts and other items for you or your honey.

Flower Tree Nursery is raffling a 15-gallon Prairie-Fire crab apple tree. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets. Be sure to get your tickets soon. The drawing date will be announced later, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win.

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89406. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnv.org) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are really likable.

Do you have questions, comments or a great story? Contact me jkwmil@outlook.com.

Kathleen Williams-Miller, a CAPS volunteer, contributed this week’s column.