Is your dog a southpaw?

Recently, on National Geographic’s “Bark Fest,” Dr. Brian Hare discussed dogs: their talents, traits and intelligence. Dr. Hare is the founder of Dognition, an online assessment that you can perform with your dog to find out what type of intelligence he possesses. It was fascinating to watch the super dogs perform the tasks.

I was really surprised to find out that dogs are right or left pawed. Obviously, I have never seen Watson pick up a pen or spoon, so how would I know? It turns out that dogs do lead with their left or right paw. I actually tested this at Laura Mills Park by leading Watson up and down the stairs on the gazebo. When Watson started up the steps, he would lead with his left paw.

It turns out that guide dogs tend to lead with their right paw. When choosing a dog for the guide program, one of the factors is paw dominance. Most male dogs are left pawed, so a large number of guide dogs are female. Next time you are walking up or down stairs, be sure to notice what paw your pup leads with; he might be a southpaw like Watson.

In other news congratulations to David Oliveira for winning the beautiful crabapple tree in our Flower Tree Nursery raffle. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets. The money raised goes directly to support the guests at CAPS. Flower Tree Nursery is now selling tickets for the next tree raffle. The winner will be able to choose any 15-gallon tree they want. The drawing will be held June 30 so be sure to hurry and get your tickets soon.

WHO’S WHO AT CAPS?

Joe and Mike Bailey are the owners of Flower Tree Nursery. Flower Tree Nursery has supported CAPS for over 10 years by donating beautiful trees for the CAPS tree raffles. Countless animals have benefited from their generosity. It is a tribute to both Joe and Mike for their commitment to our community. We are truly indebted to their kindness, and we appreciate their support. Thank you from everyone at CAPS and a Four Paws Wave from all our critters. You are the best!

WHO’S NEW AT THE CAPS ZOO?

Annie is a beautiful gray-and-white cat with an adorable black nose. She has intense green eyes that sparkle when she looks at you. Annie is six months old and full of fun. She was abandoned by her family and recently came to CAPS. Annie is a princess who is looking for a home where she will be an only cat. She would love to have someone who will love and spoil her. It could be you, so come out and meet her, because you won’t be disappointed.

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

CAPS will be at Walmart on June 13 with Ki and our Kissin’ Booth. Ki has a regular fan club, and he loves his fans. Don’t disappoint Ki, so come on by and join Ki’s fan club. We have new designs for our shirts, and caps, so please stop by and check them out before or after greeting Ki.

Flower Tree Nursery is raffling a 15-gallon tree of your choice. 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 June 30, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win.

CAPS always needs pet food. We would love your donation of cat or dog food. Please feel free to bring the food to CAPS or send an email, and I will pick it up.

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.