How does air pollution affect our pets?

I’m sure everyone has noticed the polluted air from the ongoing fires in California. I found myself humming the tune “Smoke gets in your eyes” as Watson and I walked around the park. Looking at his eyes I realized he was having the same trouble coping as I was. Yes, smoke gets in your eyes and everywhere.

The negative effects of smog on humans have long been documented. However, scientists are just now exploring the negative effects of air pollution on pets. In a recent study conducted in Mexico City, one of the world’s most polluted areas, they found that the brain structure of dogs exposed to high levels of air pollution showed high levels of inflammation and changes that were similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans.

What about cats? In one study it was determined that one in 10 cats has asthma related to indoor and outdoor pollutants. Cats who lived with people who smoke or burn wood fires were found to have dramatically reduced lung function. In several instances, the cats of very heavy smokers developed lung cancer.

The good news is there are some strategies to help reduce your pet’s exposure to air pollutants. Changing your home’s air filters regularly ensures cleaner air. If you are a smoker, avoid smoking indoors and keep your home as smoke free as possible. Bring your pet indoors especially on low air quality days. Vacuum frequently to remove pet hair and other indoor air pollutants.

Other sources of pollutants are the chemicals you use around the home. Be sure to check the labels for animal-friendly products. I figure that if a product is animal friendly it will be OK for me too. So, until our beautiful blue sky returns, our family will be inside more, and we’ll avoid the smoke. Fallon has the best air quality in Nevada, and hopefully we’ll be back to that soon.

IN NEED OF

Garage sale items. We need gently used appliances, furniture, treadmills and miscellaneous items. We don’t need clothing. You can drop off items at our storage unit located at 1105 Taylor Place (Spring Valley Rentals), unit S62. Someone will be there from 9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 18, 25 and Sept. 1.

Aluminum cans, which we recycle to augment our shelter funds. We are now able to pick up cans from you. If you have cans to pick up, call 775-423-7500.

SHOUT OUT TO

Audrey Mondhink for collecting cans. A tail wag to you!

Riley for volunteering to play with cats and dogs. A four-paws salute to you!

COME SEE US

CAPS will be at Walmart on Sept.15 with the Kissin’ Booth and a puckered-up pooch. Come by to get your pooch smooch. We have colorful caps and shirts, so be sure to check out the merchandise after you have loved on our pup.

DON’T FORGET

August Pet Holiday: Work Like a Dog Day.

CAPS annual garage sale that will be held Sept. 7 and 8 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. inside at Oasis Community Church, 1520 S. Maine St.

You can pre-order your CAPS calendar call 775-423-7500 for details.

Flower Tree Nursery will again be raffling a 20-gallon tree on Sept. 15, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets.

CONTACT CAPS

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, Nev., 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are really likeable.

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Do you have questions, comments or a great story? Contact me, jkwmil@outlook.com.

Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer.