Wile E. Coyote is on the prowl

Recently at a back yard barbecue, we were all astounded to see a coyote brazenly strut up close and personal to check out the festivities. Normally coyotes are shy and avoid contact with humans, but this guy was curious. Then we realized he was checking out the family’s dog.

Coyotes may view dogs as a threat, or as potential prey, it depending on the size of the dog. Of course, everyone was concerned that the coyote might attack Tank until he stood up and barked. One look at Tank and coyote was gone.

Actually, dogs and coyotes are close relatives. In a recent study of coyote-dog behavior researchers found that, members of both species have playful behavior. Play bows were common throughout the play session. Both dog and coyote displayed chasing and roughhousing.

Size does matter to coyotes perhaps because it is easier to attack smaller dogs. But when confronted with a bigger dog they back down immediately. However, dogs do not behave in a predatory way toward coyotes and are not aggressive in their interactions with them.

Because dogs and coyotes are related, they are biologically capable of producing litters. Coy-dogs, bred successfully in captivity, are hybrids of coyotes and dogs. Genetic surveys of coyotes in the wild show little evidence of dogs in their makeup. This suggests little natural cross over and some of the reasons are inherited differences.

Coyotes are highly seasonal breeders; dogs are not. Male coyotes tend to litters, whereas dogs and coy-dog males do not. In addition, coy-dogs have lower fertility than either domestic dogs or coyotes.

If you do see a coyote, do not run away but always back up and make noise to scare them.

Wile E. Coyote has never outsmarted the roadrunner, and I’m sure he will not outsmart you.

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have 18 adorable kittens: 10 boys and eight girls. All our babies need foster homes. Call 775-7500 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

Help! We need emergency funds to repair our main air conditioning.

Items for the CAPS garage sale. Call 775-423-7500 to have your items picked up.

Cat litter for our guests’ comfort.
Friskies wet cat food and any dry cat food except Meow Mix.
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
To all NAS volunteers who spent the day pulling weeds and fixing our kennels. A four-paw- salute to you!
 
COME SEE US
CAPS is now open. We suggest appointments for adoptions, SNAPS, and food pantry. We need volunteers. Call 775-423-7500.

 

DON’T FORGET
July Holiday: National Mutt Day is July 31.
To mark your calendar for CAPS garage sale Sept. 9 and 10.
You can help “Pup Grade” our kennels. We rely on fundraisers, donations, and volunteers for our sources of revenue. At this time, our kennels are in need of serious service. Our water system is failing, our indoor kennels need flooring, and the main air conditioner needs repair. If you are able to contribute expertise, supplies, or monetary assistance please call at 775-423-7500.
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. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.