Celebrate National Mutt Day

Dear reader, every day I read a comic strip named Mutts that follows the adventures of Earl the dog, Mooch the cat, and other animals who have been adopted from shelters. In the past mutt was a derogatory term meaning a stupid person or mongrel dog. However, times have changed and this week we are celebrating National Mutt Day.

What exactly are mutts? They are a combination of different breeds, rather than one identifiable breed. Mixed breed dogs, or mutts, have more than two breeds in their genetic make-up, and sometimes even more than three or four. Recently, Aberdeen University researchers conducted tests on 100 dogs, both mutts and purebreds to compare intelligence.

The scientists used seven intelligence and psychology tests that included complex mazes, spatial awareness, and problem solving. They compared results and concluded that overall, mixed breed dogs are smarter than purebred dogs.

Nearly half of all domesticated dogs are mutts. According to the ASPCA roughly 70-75 percent of the dogs in shelters are mixed breed dogs. One of the real benefits of mutts is they are healthier than purebred dogs. More gene diversity in mutt dogs means they are less likely to develop hereditary diseases and disorders.

There are seven major dog groups: Working, Herding, Toy, Hound, Sporting, Non-Sporting, and Terrier.

The Working group features breeds that perform certain practical tasks, while the Hound Group features breeds that hunt. The American Kennel Club lists180 pure breeds and then there are the designer breeds.

Designer breeds are hybrids of two pure breeds purposefully mixed to promote key characteristics. The American Canine Hybrid Club recognizes 615 designer breeds.

Surprisingly, more than 10 percent of registered designer dogs have a poodle parent. Poodles are popular for crossbreeding because they come in four sizes and have a low-shed coat. The first designer pooch was a Labradoodle made for the visually impaired. The hypoallergenic poodle coat and Lab temperament created an allergen-free guide dog.

When choosing a dog, if you can’t decide between a Shepherd, a Setter or a Poodle, get them all by adopting a mutt. We have excellent choices at CAPS.

IN NEED OF

Board members. We are seeking community-minded folks to serve on the CAPS board. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

Funds to go toward veterinarian bills.

Leashes, harnesses for big dogs, Big Kongs, and treats for our guests.

Dog walkers, we need volunteers to walk our dogs and foster animals. Call 775-423-7500 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

To Genevieve for organizing and teaching at Paint Your Pet Night. A four-paw-salute to you!

The anonymous donor who provided money for our veterinarian bill. Paw applause to you!

The generous person who donated canned dog food. All tails are wagging for you!

COME SEE US

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

July Holiday: National Mutt Day is July 31. Is your BFF a mutt?

If you would 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.