August 17 is black cats day

Watson here, and it came to my attention that black cats have their own day, and it isn’t Oct. 31. In fact, Aug.17 is the official Black Cats’ Day, so let us celebrate the magnificent black cat. Many people associate black cats with witches and Halloween, but black cats are more than spooky myths.

Black cats are unique with sleek shiny coats and intense golden eyes. Although there is no specific breed of black cat, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognizes 22 breeds that can have solid black coats. The Bombay breed is very popular with intense copper-colored eyes and all black shorthair. In fact Tootsie, our featured cat, is a black beauty.

A black cat’s color is actually a genetic quirk. There are three variants of the black fur gene (solid black, brown, and cinnamon) and the hue works in conjunction with the pattern. A solid black hue might also have the dominant tabby stripe gene, and sun exposure can reveal the invisible stripes.

The sun can actually bleach the fur to a rust color.

Black fur might also indicate resistance to disease. The mutation that causes a cat’s fur to be black is in the same genetic family as genes known to give humans resistance to diseases like HIV. Scientists think the color of these cats has less to do with camouflage and more with disease resistance.

The ancient Egyptians worshiped cats as sacred, because they symbolized Bastet, the cat goddess of protection. Cats were mummified and buried with their masters. Considered good luck in many cultures, the black cat now enjoys celebrity status.

One timeless myth states that if you release a black cat at a crossroads containing five intersecting roads and follow the cat he will lead you to a treasure. I think living with a black cat might be the greatest treasure of all.

Mom just reminded me that cats have staff and dogs have owners. That said, I figure that mom does not realize that I own her heart.
XOXO Watson
 
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have kittens to foster! 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
We are looking for energetic, enthusiastic, community-minded folks to serve on the CAPS board. We meet once a month. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
Garage sale items. We need gently used appliances, furniture, treadmills, and miscellaneous items. We do not need clothing. Call 775-423-7500 for pick up.
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.
 
SHOUT OUT TO 
The folks who have donated to our new kennel floors. Help reach our goal! The GoFundMe link can be found on our Facebook page. Pooch smooches to you!
The NAS Fallon volunteers, for their encore performance maintaining CAPS property. All tails are wagging for you!
 

COME SEE US

CAPS is now open, we suggest appointments for adoptions, SNAPS, and food pantry. We cannot accept volunteers until further notice. Call 775-423-7500.
 
DON’T FORGET
August Pet Holiday: National Black Cat Day Aug. 17.
CAPS garage sale at the Oasis Church on Friday, Sept. 17 and Saturday, Sept. 18, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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.