Scrappy is a handsome, five-year-old, ginger. He came to CAPS from Fallon Animal Control. We suspect he got his name from the scratches on his face. We are not sure if he was the winner or loser, but he does gets along with other cats. Scrappy really likes people and is looking for a home where he is safe and cared for. Can you make his dream come true? Come out and meet him.
By Kathleen Williams-Miller
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Watson here. I was so excited last week when my mom mentioned she was getting Cadillacs. I could just image myself riding in the upmost luxury on a comfortable, full-sized back seat. I was sure there is a built-in bone bar, too. Well, the dream was shattered when I realized she said cataracts not Cadillacs.
Cataracts are clouded eye lenses and one of the eye conditions that we share with humans. My eyes are not that different from my mom’s. We both have pupils, corneas, lenses, rods, and cones that work similarly. I do see things a little differently, because I don’t have as many cones.
Unfortunately, as we age, many dogs develop cataracts. Our eyes have water and proteins in them, and cataracts form when proteins clump together creating a cloud-like substance in the eye’s lens. Eventually, more and more proteins gather clouding the entire lens. Cataracts can start small and grow large, or they can appear overnight.
There are several causes of cataracts. One is inheritable traits. Some breeds are more susceptible than others are. Another is diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes), which can also cause cataracts in dogs. Eye injuries, especially when there is inflammation, can lead to cataracts if left untreated.
Nuclear sclerosis, or hardening of the lenses is a condition similar to cataracts. In fact, you can see with this condition. Even though the eyes become cloudy, it doesn’t cause blindness. A quick trip to the veterinarian can confirm exactly what is going on in your BFF’s eyes.
If cataracts go untreated, a dog can become blind, because cataracts block light from entering the lens. This is treatable, but without treatment, it can develop into glaucoma. Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve and will leave the eye blind.
As Dr. John explained cataract surgery, “Treating a newly formed cataract is like shoveling snow, but left untreated, it is like chipping away granite.” Don’t take your BFF’s eyes for granted, keep them clear.
XOXO
Watson
IN NEED OF
Friskies wet cat food and any dry cat food except Meow Mix.
Folks to donate to the Rotarians fundraiser. You can contribute by contacting Withers at proudpony@cccomm.net or Young at junethebookie@gmail.com.
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.
Folks who need help affording spaying/neutering for dogs or cats. The SNAPS program details are below.
SHOUT OUT TO
CAPS staff and volunteers for their hard work keeping our kennels clean and our dogs walked. Pooch smooches to you!
Naomi for donating cat and dog food. All tails are wagging for you!
The Lahontan Valley News for giving CAPS a voice. Barks 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
June Holiday: National Adopt a Cat Month
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, 2021 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 more information, call CAPS at 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.
