CAPS has 13 adorable Dalmatian/mix puppies that are 9.5 weeks old. Born at CAPS, the puppies are looking for foster homes until adopted. Call CAPS at 775-423-7500 if you would be interested in taking a perfect pup.
Provided to the LVN
Dear reader, last week I wrote about dogs and the zoomies and I received comments from readers wondering why I didn’t include cats. Well, I really wanted to give cats their own zoomie column because I know from experience just how wound up cats can get.
My first experience was with two very naughty kitties I named Wilber and Orville. Honestly, they were adorable until it was bedtime and then the circus began. Those two were like a tornados zipping, running, and knocking things down. One night there was an actual earthquake and I thought it was the “brat cats.”
There is a scientific name for this behavior; Frenetic Random Activity Periods or FRAP. It serves as a way to burn off excess energy. The main three reasons for this behavior are sleep habits, hunting instinct, and bathroom issues.
Cats sleep between 12 to 16 hours a day so after a long snooze a mad dash makes sense.
I always thought that cats were nocturnal but actually, they are crepuscular which means they are naturally most active at dawn and dusk. This is a normal biological need, which allows them to take advantage of the cooler times of day for more effective hunting. That is why cats so often exhibit FRAP late at night.
Because cats are natural predators, it isn’t uncommon for them to pursue imaginary prey. To accommodate their need to pounce you can spend time playing with them using a toy to stimulate their play. In fact one way to curb FRAP behavior is to dedicate time each day to random play.
Occasionally, you might catch them zipping about after using the cat box as a sort of victory lap for a job well done. However, this could also indicate your BFF has an infection or inflammation involving the urinary tract, colon or rectum. If you notice, anything out of the ordinary with their behavior, a trip to the veterinarian may be necessary.
I fondly remember Wilber and Orville and I imagine them zooming around heaven as the “brat angels” with halos askew.
ATTENTION
CAPS next upcoming event is the Glow in the Dark 5K Run at Rattlesnake Hill on Saturday at 6 p.m. Costumes are encouraged and dogs are welcome. 775-423-7500 for details.
The High Desert Artists are having an art and craft show at the Old Post Office on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 from noon to 6 p.m. Featuring a raffle benefitting CAPS.
IN NEED OF
We desperately need help replacing our old boiler. As the weather gets colder, we have no other way to keep our shelter warm. If you can help with supplies or expertise call 775-423-7500.
Board members. We need energetic, community-minded folks. We meet once a month on the second Tuesday, at 5 p.m. in room 201 at the county offices located on Taylor Street. Our next meeting is Nov. 12; call 775-423-7500 for details.
Bleach and cleaning supplies.
Aluminum cans. Please drop them off at CAPS. We are temporarily unable to pick up cans.
SHOUT OUT TO
Our community and anonymous donors. Pooch smooches to you!
Everyone who has signed up for the Spooky run. Boo to 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
October Holiday: Pet Appreciation Day is Oct. 24.
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.