Calliope is a long-haired tuxedo and Clover (see LVN print edition) is a short-haired tuxedo. Both girls are 1.5 years old. These sisters are very sweet and like people. They enjoy playing, and Calliope enjoys being pet. They are looking for a home where they can be together because they are quite bonded.
Provided to the LVN
Dear reader, it astonished me when I read about Cecil, the well-behaved dog who ate $4,000. I know all about counter surfing because our Lab, Baby, was famous for snatching anything edible we left unattended on the table or counter but I had never heard of a dog eating money.
Some dogs develop unusual eating habits, such as gobbling down rocks, dirt, fabric, paper, and tissue. To some extent, eating non-food items may be part of your dog’s normal exploratory behavior, but excessiveness can point to problems. This problem, called Pica, is a disorder in which dogs eat non-food items that provide no physical benefit.
This behavior can highlight underlying medical problems like nutritional deficiencies. It can also point to anxiety, boredom, or compulsion.
The most important thing to discover is if there is a medical problem causing Pica. Medical problems are hard to determine but often include gastrointestinal, liver, neurologic, or pancreatic disease, anemia, and poor diet. For example, some animals will eat soil because they have mineral deficiencies.
To ascertain whether it is a medical emergency or behavior problem a visit to the veterinarian is a good idea. My sister’s dog has been eating dirt and rocks. After a visit to the vet, it was determined he has a major medical problem.
When Pica is associated with anxiety, there are drugs that can help but lifestyle changes are also necessary. Basic things to try are good-quality foods, exercise, and mental stimulation. Take your BFF for walks, provide toys, and make sure you interact with him. If you provide a regular schedule for walks, feeding, and play, you will decrease anxiety, because he will know what is coming.
Does Cecil have Pica? From what I have read, he has never done anything like this before. Perhaps the money had some irresistible scent that prompted him to scarf down the entire envelop of cash.
The outcome of his indiscretion was that his owners had to sift through vomit and feces to retrieve the shredded bills. After laundering the money and carefully piecing it back together, they recovered 3,550. So, maybe it is true that dogs can eat homework.
ATTENTION
CAPS is seeking board members. We need energetic, enthusiastic, community-minded folks to serve on the board. Please consider being part of our team, we only meet once a month. You can make a difference. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have two handsome 15-month-old male puppies. BG and Diego are shy guys. They have lived their lives at CAPS but are anxiously waiting to find a forever home. Cat lovers, we have two nine-month-old kittens. They are cute!
IN NEED OF
• Bleach, laundry detergent pods, toilet paper, and paper towels.
• XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.
• Would you like to foster animals? Call CAPS for details.
• Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.
SHOUT OUT TO
• Kali at Pampering Pawz for grooming Angie. Pooch smooches to you!
8 Our faithful volunteers who braved the cold and snow to attend to our guests. All tails are wagging for you!
COME SEE US
CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.
DON’T FORGET
• January Holiday: National Train Your Dog Month.
• Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.
• 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.
Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.