The truth about licking revealed

Watson here, and just to let you know licking is part of our daily routine around here. I do some grooming, and licking is more just than grooming. Yes, licking serves many purposes, but obsessive licking may indicate problems.
Why do dogs lick? There are six major reasons why dogs may obsessively lick. These include allergies, boredom, dry skin, hormonal imbalance, pain, and parasites. If there is an infection from bacteria, fungus, or yeast on the skin, it may be the source of pain. Consult a veterinarian for obsessive licking.
Moderate licking is natural for grooming and licking the paws removes dirt or anything else that is stuck on them. Like cats, dogs groom their skin and hair by licking.
Licking wounds is another instinctive behavior. Dog saliva has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that aid in fighting certain bacteria. When a dog licks a wound, it helps remove dead tissue and dirt from the wound. They do this to speed up the healing process. A dog will also lick a human wound, but it is not a great idea because of the different bacteria in his mouth.
One way dogs communicate is through licking. A dog may lick you for attention and friendship, but they also may be hungry. I always get mom up in the morning by giving her a big smooch. That means, it is breakfast time and she proceeds to the kitchen to rustle up chow.
Boredom is another reason dogs lick. Licking a rough textured material tickles the tongue and sparks interest. Snuffle Mats are textured canine stimulation mats. They are a great way to keep dogs entertained and mentally active, plus you can hide treats in them.
Do dogs lick to show affection? Yes! Dogs remember the loving licking by their mothers and instinctually want to “kiss” you to show they love you. Nothing says I love you more than a pooch smooch and I think I have licked the subject.
XOXO Watson
 
IN NEED OF
Folks to help “Pup Grade” our kennels. See the details below.
Dry cat food and Friskies wet. Dry dog food and Pedigree wet food. Our current supplier of donated food is no longer distributing food to shelters. We need help to maintain our guests.
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.
Puppy milk, puppy pads, and Taste of the Wild Puppy food. We have puppies that need lots of care and supplies.
 
SHOUT OUT TO
Fallon Pet Connection for donating all of the wonderful pet supplies. All tails are wagging for you!

Shannon Miller at Maggie’s Play House Doggie Day Care. You are just Grrreat!

Ashley the delightful groomer at Positively Divine. Pooch smooches to 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
February Pet Holiday: Spay/Neuter Awareness Month
You can help “Pup Grade” our kennels. We rely on fundraisers, donations, and volunteers but the pandemic has crippled our sources of revenue. At this time, our kennels are in need of serious service.
We need permanent roofs over the outdoor kennels and new flooring in the indoor kennels. If you are able to contribute expertise, supplies, or monetary assistance please call at 775-423-7500.
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.