CAPS: The greatest endurance athlete is a dog

Dear Readers, I have friends who are marathon runners, and they are in excellent shape. However, they cannot compare with the Greyster racing dogs. I was surprised to learn that this special unofficial breed is the epitome of endurance and studied for their ability.

Honestly, I had never heard of Greysters who are a cross between the Greyhound and the German Shorthair Pointer. Genetic studies indicate they are 75 percent German Shorthair Pointer and 25 percent Greyhound. These super athletes get their endurance from the Greyhounds and their enthusiasm from the German Shorthair Pointer.

Bred specifically for the ability needed to run short, high intensity sprint races, they have strong cardiovascular systems, high endurance, and are extremely intelligent. A bonus is that they are magnificently handsome!

Pulka (sled without runners) dog sled racing is popular in Norway and Scandinavian. It involves racing over dry land where small teams of one to four dogs compete over short hilly distances. Greysters are an excellent choice for this because of their heat tolerance and their ability to run between 19 mph and 30 mph. They are fast and efficient.

Perhaps the most amazing thing about Greysters is their “aerobic scope” or VO2 max. VO2 max is the maximum rate of oxygen consumption attainable during physical exertion. A comparison of VO2 in dogs at 240 mL and an elite cyclist at 97.5 mL clearly puts dog ahead of the man. This amazing aerobic ability allows them to run for extended periods at sustained speeds.

Even though they are elite athletes and require intense exercise, they are friendly and excellent companions. If you are interested in training for a marathon, I can certainly recommend this four-legged friend, but you will have to move fast to keep up with him.

ATTENTION

Paint Your Pet Night is Friday, July 28, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Old Post Office. Come and create a portrait of your pet. All supplies, beverages, and appetizers provided for $40. All proceeds go to CAPS. To attend this fun-filled evening text Genevieve at 801-694-0059.

We have extended CAPS Saturday hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have two handsome one-year-old male puppies. BG and Diego are anxiously waiting to find their forever homes. We also have seven five-month-old Border Collie mix puppies and five tabby kittens in rainbow colors. Come and check them out; they are cute!

IN NEED OF

• Funds to sustain the shelter. We have veterinary, food, and utility bills. Any contribution will be helpful. 

• Would you like to foster animals? We need volunteers. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

• Dog walkers, we need consistent volunteers to walk and socialize our dogs. 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

• Steve Hiskett of Hiskett & Sons LLC. for the generous donation. A Four-Paw-Salute to you!

• Jean at Pet Connection for the food, treats, and goodies. All tails are wagging for you!

COME SEE US

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

At Walmart on Saturday, July 22.

We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

• July Holiday: National Pet Hydration Month. Make sure your pet has water and stays cool!

• 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.