News Stories for Tue., Aug. 1, 2017

The Bend Spay & Neuter Program will be in Warm Springs this Sunday for its free monthly clinic for dogs. The program offers free spay and neuter surgeries on the first Sunday of each month at the Greeley Heights Community Building. Dogs can begin being dropped off at 7:30 Sunday morning. Dogs should not be fed breakfast but water is okay. Free rabies and parvo vaccines are available and a local shelter will be on hand to accept dogs that need to be surrendered for adoption. The BSNP reminds people that a dog that has been spayed or neutered is a healthier dog.

Oregon has determined it awarded Medicaid health benefits to more than 37,000 people during the past year who earned too much money or otherwise failed to qualify, new figures show. That high number represents nearly half the Medicaid recipients whose incomes the state rechecked this spring and summer. The Bend Bulletin reports It has come to light as the state health authority works through a backlog of eligibility checks caused by technology problems and the spike in enrollment under the Affordable Care Act. The count surpasses predictions to the Legislature by agency director Lynne Saxton, who pegged the number at 32,000. And it almost certainly will climb higher, as the agency has another 31,000 cases still to check. State officials said they will not know why the rate has soared until they complete the work.

As the state’s temperatures break into the triple digits this week, health officials are recommending Oregonians take steps to prevent heat-related illnesses that can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The National Weather Service anticipates a major heatwave hitting the state between today and Friday. Even the low temperatures will be warm. Do what you can to stay cool. Stay in air-conditioned places when temperatures are high, if possible. Limit exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.  Open windows to allow fresh air to circulate during morning and evening hours, and close shades on west-facing windows during the afternoon hours.  Use cool compresses, misting, and cool showers and baths. Avoid hot foods and heavy meals; they add heat to the body. Don’t ever leave children or pets in a parked car. And, stay hydrated. Regardless of your level of activity, drink plenty of fluids, even if you are not thirsty and especially when working outside. Avoid alcohol or liquids containing large amounts of sugar