Dear reader, this week has been a nightmare for folks in California. I received a call from my nephew letting me know that his family was being evacuated; as we spoke, I could hear his wife imploring him to get in the car because the fire was coming over the hill.
I worried until I received a text from him saying that they were safe and their cat was snuggling with the children. Apparently, the fire spread so quickly that many people were away from their homes and pets. After evacuating, there was no way to return to retrieve their BFFs.
During evacuation, fire personnel canvass the area by going to each home searching for people who haven’t heeded the warning or animals who are home alone. Animals that have been rescued are transported to a safe location away from the area.
Firefighters have recommended that pet owners keep a pet alert sign on the entrance listing the number of pets inside and keep collars on pets and leashes by the door. Most of all make sure your pets are microchipped and wearing up-to-date ID tags. Microchipping allows identification of the owner.
Unfortunately, because of the fire and so many animals have been separated from their families it is creating a chaotic situation. One hero is a veterinarian named Anne Harvilicz, who has opened her veterinary hospital to house animals affected by the wildfires. Another veterinarian in Pasadena has taken in 300 animals, many with burns and injuries.
Many hotels will allow cats and dogs but there is a need for animals like snakes, llamas, horses, and goats to find a safe place during this dangerous event.
Emergency agencies including the IFAW, National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition, and the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council are helping with the effort to house and comfort displaced animals.
Thankfully, people are rallying to help the four-legged victims of this disaster.
ATTENTION
Paint Your Pet Night is back on Jan. 24 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Old Post Office. Supplies, beverages, and appetizers are provided. The cost is $40. To reserve your spot, text Genevieve at 801-694-0059. All money goes to CAPS.
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have four adorable Dalmatian/mix puppies who are 18 weeks old. Born at CAPS, the puppies are currently looking for foster homes until adopted. Make this New Year a great one with a frisky pup.
IN NEED OF
• Dog Kennel attendant. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
• Walking buddies for our fabulous canine guests. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
• Funds toward the new heating system that we recently had to install.
• Aluminum cans. Please drop them off at CAPS. We are temporarily unable to pick them up.
SHOUT OUT TO
The NAPS Top Fun School Age Care for creating toys for our cats and dogs. You are Pawsome!
The staff and board of CAPS who come in everyday to feed, water, walk, and love our guests. 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
• January Holiday: National Train Your Dog Month
• Board meetings. We meet once a month on the second Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in room 102 at the County Offices located on Taylor Street. Our next meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 11.
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.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.