Legislative bills for dogs

It seems our Legislature is going to the dogs because two bills were recently introduced concerning dog rights. The first bill, SB105, was introduced by State Sen. James Settelmeyer. This bill would allow people to bring their dogs with them into taverns and saloons.

Settelmeyer said the proposal originated from constituents in Virginia City. It would allow businesses the freedom to welcome dogs if they chose to. He noted that a lot of restaurants across the county welcome dogs. Service dogs are already allowed in bars so business owners should be free to cater to the dog-loving niche.

His arguments were met with dismay from the health department. Officials from several health departments opposed the bill, saying that dog hair and bodily fluids might cross-contaminate food and drink. They went on to express concern about unruly dogs and how employees would have to be trained to interact safely with dogs. The jury is still out, but we may see a change coming for our furry friends.

The second bill, SB372, was introduced by State Sen. Tick Segerblom. This bill covers a wide range of issues surrounding changes to the current medical marijuana law in the state. One such change regards marijuana use for animals. As written in the bill, registry identification cards for animals would be issued and would allow animals to receive marijuana if prescribed by a veterinarian who regularly provides care for the animal.

The pet would be prescribed a medical marijuana card if he/she was diagnosed with a chronic or debilitating medical condition. Details of how marijuana may help the symptoms must also be provided. Let’s hope these bills don’t go up in smoke before they reach the floor. It could be a whole new chapter for dog rights.

WHO’S WHO AT CAPS?

Saturday at CAPS is a busy day! I happened to be there when it was walking time, and volunteers were trekking across the land. I caught up with Mei Scott and her husband, Adrian, as they took guests for a walk. The Scotts are stationed at NAS Fallon and find it fulfilling to spend time with the animals. Mei told me that they missed having their own dog but have enjoyed walking and playing with CAPS’ guests. A big thank you goes out to the Scotts for their commitment to our community.

WHO’S NEW AT THE CAPS ZOO?

This week’s pet personality is Norman. He is a border collie-husky mix with a kissing spot on the top of his head. Norman was found in a gully where he was trapped before he became a guest at CAPS. He is an older dog but has a heart yearning for a single-pet home. This guy could be your perfect companion. Come in and meet him. We also have three darling 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

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.

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 April 18 with our Kissin’ Booth and Ki. Get into the spring swing and join Ki’s fan club. CAPS also has new designs of hoodies, shirts and other items for you or your honey.

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.