The green field is actually a pond

Dear readers, on my daily walk around Liberty Park, I spotted an unusual sight. The pond appeared to be solid green; it was not dark green but vibrant bright green. A quick sprint over to the pond confirmed my observation, because the entire surface was covered with algae.

Having read about the poisonous algae at Lahontan Dam, I called the Fallon Recreation Department and was assured that the algae in our pond is not the poisonous kind. In fact, it was harmless and OK for the fish.

I worried about the dogs who take a dip or drink from the pond but was happy to learn that the water was OK. I didn’t realize that there are actually 150,000 different kinds of algae and where there is water there will be algae.

The seven common algae types found in ponds are: Blue-Green, Bryozoans, Filamentous, Green Pond, Golden, Red Pond, Nitella/Stoneworts, and Chara/Muskgrass. I suspect our pond is graced with the Green Pond variety, which is not toxic.

Blue-Green algae is the dangerous type and it is not actually algae but bacteria known as cyanobacteria. It gives the appearance of algae when it clumps together in water. Dogs are more likely than other animals to ingest the toxic algae, because they play in the water.

The best way to eliminate problems is avoiding any standing water that is dirty, foamy or has mats on the surface. Keep your BFF on a leash around icky water and don’t let him drink from ponds or lakes.

If your dog does jump into questionable water immediately rinse him off before he licks the bacteria from his fur and paws. Call your veterinarian if your dog has symptoms of diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, confusion, or seizures. Your quick action may save your pet.

Ponder the pond before you approach the water and if you wouldn’t swim in or drink the water don’t let your BFF. Also, I would like to caution dog owners about letting their BFF romp in Liberty Pond because occasionally I see abandoned fishhooks.

ATTENTION

CAPS garage sale is Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Oasis Community Church, 1520 S. Maine St. We have delightful selections that included antiques, cookware, furniture, and miscellaneous items. If we don’t have it you don’t need it!

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 four Border Collie-mix puppies who are six months old and five lab-mix who are 13 weeks old. Cat lovers we have eight Tabby kittens in shades of gray. They are cute!

IN NEED OF

XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.

Funds to sustain the shelter our bills are ongoing. Contributions are needed.

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

Big R for donating food and kitten/puppy milk replacer. All tails are wagging for you!

The Oasis Community Church for allowing us to have the garage sale in their facility. Kindness never fails!

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

September Holiday: Puppy Mill Awareness. Adopt from CAPS.

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.