CAPS: Satchmo has become a ball snob

Watson here and recently my nephew Satchmo confided in me that he was insulted that his dad actually thought he would like chasing a tennis ball. Satch’s ball of choice is the blue and orange Chuckit ball, because it has just the right texture and firmness for a good catch.
Do dogs actually have toys they prefer? To answer that question, I did a little research, and I state unequivocally that we do have preferences and instinct plays a lot in our choices. Dogs perceive toys the same way wolves perceive prey. The texture, shape, and size determine their reactions.
Bird dogs bred to bring back ducks and other prey love to play fetch. Fetch satisfies their natural-born instinct to hunt. Dogs with high-prey drives love squeaky toys. The squeak sound sparks their urge to hunt, and it reminds them of the sound an animal would make when caught.
There are many reasons dogs like stuffed toys. Retrievers like plushy toys, because they remind us of our inborn talent for recovering duck carcasses. Female dogs, if separated from puppies too soon, use a stuffed toy to remember her puppies. Strong maternal instincts guide her behavior, and she may choose to mother her toy.
Some pups will hold their favorite toy for comfort, especially if they are nervous or excited. It is a way to overcoming distress and reinforces positive emotion. I am not a stuffed toy boy, but I have friends who have a bear, bunny, or some other stuffed toy. Most of their toys look pretty beat up!
Puppies going through teething chew on hard objects to alleviate their discomfort. Usually the toy that makes them feel better ends up being their favorite thing.
On the other end, senior dogs usually like toys that are soft and comforting. Sometimes they will bring you a toy that you played with together years ago. I guess you are wondering what I chose as a toy.
Well, I have to say my dad. He is comforting, plays ball, shares the couch, and bought me a Chuckit ball. No playing around, dad is the best!
XOXO Watson

 

 LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have five adorable, energetic Border Collie/Heeler/mix puppies, one girl, and four boys. This is a foster to adopt opportunity for puppy parents. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
Policy, however, prohibits adopting out puppies or kittens under the age of six months to a home with children under 5 years of age. This is to protect both the children and the animal.
 
IN NEED OF
Garage sale items. We need gently used appliances, furniture, treadmills, and miscellaneous items. We don’t need clothing. Call 775-423-7500 for pick up.
Leashes, dog toys, harnesses, and Fish Bay dog treats.
Dry cat food and Friskies wet. Dry dog food and Pedigree wet food.
Aluminum cans. If you have, cans to pick up, give us a call (775-423-7500) and we will come get them. You can also drop them off at CAPS.
Bleach and cleaning products.
SHOUT OUT TO
The many anonymous donors who have brought food, medicine, blankets, and money to help support CAPS. Our tails are wagging for you!
 

COME SEE US

CAPS is now open, by appointment only, for adoptions, SNAPS, and food pantry. We cannot accept volunteers until further notice. Call 775-423-7500.
 
DON’T FORGET
April Pet Holiday: Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is April 30.
To look for garage sale items!
 
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. 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 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 at jkwmil@outlook.com.