CAPS: What is black dog and cat syndrome?

Dear reader, listening to Howlin’ Wolf’s version of “I Ain’t Superstitious, but a black cat crossed my trail” sparked my interest in how superstitions affect adoptions of black cats and dogs. Interestingly, I found out that there is a difference in the adoption rates for black cats and dogs vs. lighter-colored animals.

The formal title is black dog and cat syndrome (BDS) also known as black dog or black cat bias. This is when people pass up pets with dark coat colors for lighter-colored fur. Studies of this phenomenon are contradictory with some supporting the BDS and others denying it. However, there is data that confirms darker-colored animals wait four times longer to find a home. The main reason for this is that darker animals have hard to see facial expressions and it is difficult to photograph them clearly.

Because of their dark fur, black animals’ facial features can look less defined to the human eye making them appear less approachable translating into negative impression. Shelters routinely put photos on their websites. Unfortunately, black dogs and cats don’t photograph well, so they are often overlooked.

I know this is true because my adorable chocolate Lab Watson was at CAPS for six months waiting for a home. His photo was not a great advertisement, because he was so dark that you could not see his face. But the moment we met him, we realized what a gem he was.

Sometimes superstition and fear also play a role. The color black is commonly associated with bad or evil and white with goodness. TV and media have fed into this negativity with portraits of big, black dogs as aggressive and terrifying. Folklore tells of black dogs or hellhounds that appear as ghostly omens of death.

Black cats have had a terrible time throughout history! The most common superstition is that a black cat crossing your path will bring bad luck, especially on Friday the 13th. Black cats have also been associated with witchcraft and evil, because they are nocturnal and independent.

There is some good news because in some cultures black cats signify good luck. In Japan, England, and France they are good omens leading you to treasure and blessed marriages.

It is time to raise awareness for BDS and celebrate the uniqueness of these animals. To quote Howlin’ Wolf, “I ain’t superstitious.”

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have two handsome 14-month-old male puppies BG and Diego. They are anxiously waiting to find their forever homes. We also have four Border Collie-mix puppies who are six-months-old and four Lab-mix who are 13-weeks-old. Cat lovers, we have 10 Tabby kittens in shades of gray. They are cute!

IN NEED OF

• XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.

• Would you like to foster animals? We need volunteers. 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

• All the folks who took part in the 5K Haunted Howl Run. All tails are wagging for you!

• Genevieve for facilitating the Haunted Howl Run. Pooch smooches to 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.

We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

• October Holiday: Black Cat and Dog Awareness Day is Oct. 27.

• Would you 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.