Warts are not just for warthogs

Watson here and I didn’t know that dogs and cats could get warts until my friend Freckles got them. I asked him “Wart seems to be the problem?” He told me, “Warts just popped up on my skin, dry and scaly. They are caused by viruses but are actually benign tumors.”

The fancy name for warts is papillomas. The virus can appear suddenly but disappear when the animal develops immunity to it. Some canine breeds are more susceptible to warts then others. Freckles is a cocker spaniel, and they seem to really like him.

Occasionally warts have to be removed surgically because they become inflamed, infected or bloody. Poor Freckles had a bleeding wart that just had to be taken off.

There are many different types of papilloma virus, and they occur in all species of animals including people. The best known in people is the verruca, which causes plantar warts. My mom hates plantar warts! It’s weird but each species has its own special viruses and tumors. People can’t get warts from cats or dogs and vice versa.

Cats don’t usually get warts, but they aren’t immune to the virus, especially older or sick cats. It’s important to keep an eye on any strange growths and get them checked out by your vet. Papillomas can progress, causing common forms of skin cancer. There is an oral vaccination that can be administered as a preventative measure.

When visiting your vet you can always quote Bugs Bunny, “Wart’s up dog?”

XOXO Watson

IN NEED OF

A kennel worker; this is a paid position, call 775-423-7500 for details.

Vendors for Bark in the Park on May 18; call 775-423-7500 for details.

Emergency funds for our adorable Cash’s surgery; any amount will help.

Computers; we have dinosaur computers, and we desperately need to upgrade. If you can help us call 775-423-7500 and ask for Gaby.

Folks who need help affording spaying/neutering for dogs or cats. The SNAPS program details are below.

SHOUT OUT TO

Mavis Lawrence who sent money for Cash’s surgery. All tails are wagging for you!

Audrey Mondhink for the big bags of cans. A Four Paw salute to you!

Doggie Paws “N” Kitty Tails Pet Sitting for the generous donation of $500 and pet treats. We appreciate your clients urging you to donate to CAPS. A loud bark to you!

COME SEE US

CAPS will be at Walmart on Feb. 2 with the Kissin’ Booth and a puckered-up pooch. Come by and smooch our pooch. We have hoodies, shirts and hats. Be sure to check out our merchandise after you’ve hugged our pup. We have taken January off to give our volunteers a break.

DON’T FORGET

January Pet Holiday: National Seeing Eye Dog Day, Jan. 29.

SNAPS is a program offered to Churchill County residents through CAPS that provides low-cost spay/neutering for cats and dogs. To qualify for SNAPS, you need to have one of the following: Medicaid, a child enrolled in NV Check Up Program, food stamps, 2017 tax return stating income is less than $30,000 or Veterans disability card including a photo ID. Also required are a Churchill County ID and a co-pay. For information, call CAPS at 423-7500.

Flower Tree Nursery will again be raffling a tree on March 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 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. 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 likeable.

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Contact me, jkwmil@outlook.com.