Rain didn’t dampen our spirits

Bark in the Park started with a splash as the rain pelted our enthusiastic 5K runners and walkers. Watson and all his furry buddies just took the rain in stride. Most of the rest of us just slogged on through the mud. I’m no dummy; I brought an umbrella.

Thank you to all of the walkers/runners who just laughed and shook off the rain. We were an adventuresome group who didn’t let a little weather dampen our spirits. I was amazed to see some folks do the course twice just to see how fast they could run. It was great to see CAPS dogs with volunteers at the contest.

The rain did play havoc with a lot of our vendors, but we are so grateful for the folks who did come to be part of our soggy celebration. Thank you to Johnnie’s Delicatessen, FAWG, Louie’s, Linda Curtright’s Silver Dog Training, Papa Murphy’s, Awesome Quilts, Kim Lamb and all of the local businesses who contributed items to the raffle.

Our raffle was met with excitement because everyone was huddled inside escaping the rain. Kids, dogs, and folks waited patiently hoping to hear their names called as the tickets were drawn. One young man named Jaden spent his entire savings buying tickets for the raffle. I was pleased to see that he won several items.

We had an abundance of wonderful, wiggly, wet pets who just made the day seem silly fun. The hot dog eating contest was a hoot, and the cutest dog was adorable. It’s a shame we didn’t have a look-alike contest because everyone had that “wet dog” look. Most of all, a good time was had by all.

A special thank you goes to Steve Ranson and the Lahontan Valley News for helping to make our event successful. You’ve given us a voice in our community. Of course, we love and appreciate all of the volunteers who spend time doing all of the necessary things to keep us going. You put the W in Wonderful!

WHO’S WHO

This week we would like to thank Robert and Caroline Sullivan for donating a car to CAPS. The funds from the sale of the car will go to support our thankful guests. We would also like to thank the Hot Wings Poultry Club for their donation of $261. It is this kindness and caring that keeps CAPS going. Thank you from the CAPS family!

WHO’S NEW AT THE CAPS’ ZOO?

Tank is a 1 1/2-year-old black Lab mix who ran his heart out at the 5K Mutt Strut on Saturday. He is so adorable and enthusiastic that you just have to smile. I was so impressed at how well he got along with everyone. If you are looking for a walking buddy and partner to visit the dog park with, Tank is your sweet boy. He is loyal and affectionate. Come out and take a stroll with Tank. He’d love to win your heart.

CAPS’ NEWS AND EVENTS

CAPS will be at Walmart on May 21 along with adorable Ki at our Kissin’ Booth. There may also be a “mystery” kisser. Please come by and give our boys a big hug and kiss. We have hoodies, sweatshirts, caps, and t-shirts from Bark in the Park so please check them out before or after greeting our canine volunteers.

Flower Tree Nursery is again raffling a 15-gallon tree of your choice. The drawing date is June 15, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win. Raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets.

We need dog food! Please help us out. You can drop if off at CAPS or call me at 423-1814 and I will pick it up.

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. Please visit the new CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) 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.