Lulu is a striking 4-year-old shepherd/mix with soulful brown eyes. She is our longest resident. Picked up as a stray, she gave birth on her way to CAPS.
Provided to the LVN
Dear reader, I have the good fortune to know Jess a lovely border collie/mix dog who enjoys her playtime and walks with her mom. Recently her pet parent expressed concern because Jess’ health had rapidly declined. Trips to the veterinarian eventually produced a diagnosis, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI).
The pancreas is a vital organ that produces enzymes and releases them into the small intestine to help digest food. EPI is a common digestive disorder in dogs and it occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes. Some breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Rough-Coated Collies, and German Shepherds are prone to getting this malady.
Animals can rapidly become malnourished because they cannot digest or absorb nutrients from their food. Weight loss is a harbinger of EPI. The most common cause of EPI is a lack of cells that make digestive enzymes. There are many reasons cells are lacking. Damage from inflammation or blockages can cause the cells to waste away.
Some of the signs that your BFF has EPI are weight loss in spite of a good appetite, vomiting, poor hair coat, and eating feces or other objects. To ascertain if your pet has EPI your veterinarian will get a complete screening, evaluate her poop, and perform a blood test. Armed with this information she can prescribe the proper course of action.
The treatment for EPI is to add supplements containing pancreatic enzymes to your pet’s food.
Other medications used such as probiotics or antibiotics can also improve the response.
Occasionally, the vet will recommend changing the diet. I know that Jess’ mom tried many different types of food before she settled on one that Jess could handle.
What was the outcome for Jess? With ongoing treatment, she will have a good quality of life, normal life expectancy, and a doting loving family. It is a happy conclusion for a lovely girl!
ATTENTION
• CAPS will be open by appointment until the end of February. We are upgrading our facilities. Please email us at caps@cccomm.net for appointments, questions or concerns.
• Valentine Flower Gram PAW delivery by Stargazer Blossoms. Order a flower gram of carnations and a card for $25 and have it delivered by one of CAPS guests. Available only within the Fallon area. Must order by Feb. 9 for delivery on Feb. 11. Contact 775-404-0064 for details.
• CAPS board meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m. in room 102 at the County Offices on Taylor Street. The public is invited.
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have four adorable Dalmatian/mix puppies who are 20 weeks old. Born at CAPS, the puppies are currently looking for homes. Give yourself a Valentine and adopt a frisky pup.
IN NEED OF
• Walking buddies for our fabulous canine guests. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
• Funds toward the new heating system.
• Aluminum cans. Please drop them off at CAPS. We are temporarily unable to pick them up.
SHOUT OUT TO
• Stargazer Blossoms for sponsoring the Valentine’s Day Fundraiser. A Four-Paw-Salute to you!
• The community of Fallon for their patience during our construction! Kindness never fails!
• The staff and volunteers for being flexible during this construction phase. Pooch smooches to you!
COME SEE US
CAPS will be open by appointment only beginning until the end of February because we are upgrading our facilities. Please email us at caps@cccomm.net for appointments, questions, or concerns. We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.
DON’T FORGET
February Holiday: Doggie Date Night is every night. Treat your BFF to a long walk!
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.org) 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.