Parvo on the prowl in Churchill County

Yikes, it has come to my attention that parvovirus is rearing its ugly head right here in Fallon. Parvovirus is extremely contagious and can be easily transmitted by any person, animal or object that comes into contact with an infected dog’s feces.

There is one sure way to protect your pet, and that is getting him vaccinated. Puppies and adolescent dogs are the most susceptible to the virus. The breeds that are at a higher risk are Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, Labrador retrievers, American Staffordshire terriers and German shepherds.

At this time drugs are not available that can kill the virus. Treatment consists of controlling the symptoms and boosting the immune system. Usually an infected pet will be treated at the veterinary hospital where he receives antibiotics, intravenous fluids and drugs to control vomiting.

The key to your dog avoiding infection is to have his vaccinations up to date. Generally, the first vaccine is given at six to eight weeks, and a booster is given at four-week intervals until the puppy is 16 to 20 weeks old and then another at one year old. Older dogs who have not received the puppy series should also get at least one vaccination.

Right now it’s important to make sure your BFF (Best Furry Friend) is safe, so be sure to check his vaccine records and keep him healthy and happy.

LOOKING FOR A HOME

Layla is a seven-week-old black Lab cross who was rescued from the pound. You have to see her because she is so cute. She’ll steal your heart. Layla loves other dogs and cats too. She will be ready for adoption in five weeks, but you can reserve her if you pay the adoption fee of $100.00 and fill out the paper work. Come out and meet this darling little girl. You will be charmed!

IN NEED OF

Competitors for the Boomer’s Spring Cook-Off. If you have a great ribs or macaroni and cheese recipe, call Erika Stanford at 775-857-7740. You could be our grand prize winner.

Volunteers to walk dogs or play with cats. We have enthusiastic dogs and cats just waiting to meet you. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

Aluminum cans, which we recycle to augment our shelter funds. We are unable to pick up cans because of trailer problems, but please continue to save them.

SHOUT OUT TO

NAS Fallon volunteers who helped with Bark in the Park. You are serving your country in more ways than one. We appreciate your help so much! A Four Paw Salute to you.

Churchill County High School Navy Junior ROTC for all of the assistance with Bark in the Park. Your help truly made the difference in our event.

COME SEE US

CAPS will be at Walmart on June 17 with our Kissin’ Booth and a sweet smooching pooch. Come by to get your pooch smooch. We will also have caps, short-sleeved T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts, so please check them out after you have been smooched.

DON’T FORGET

May Pet Holidays:

Dog Bite Prevention Week

To mark your calendar for June 3, 12:00 a.m.to 3:00 p.m. Boomer’s at 128 West Williams will host the 100% Local Spring Cook-Off, and all proceeds go to CAPS. This is a fun, family- friendly event featuring ribs, macaroni and cheese, bloody Marys and $1 hot dogs for the kids.

Flower Tree Nursery will be raffling a 20-gallon tree of your choice on June 15, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets.

CONTACT CAPS

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89406. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the 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.