HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 5529 ORDINANCE NO. 5529
AN ORDINANCE TO ENACT NEW DEFINITIONS INTO §92.01
DEFINITIONS OF THE ANIMALS CHAPTER OF THE FAYETTEVILLE
CODE AND TO ENACT §92.35 MANAGED CARE OF FERAL CATS
WHEREAS, increased efforts to control feral cats and reduce their ability to reproduce is
needed in Fayetteville; and
WHEREAS, an ordinance for managed care of feral cats would improve control over
feral cats and reduce their overall number through a spay and neuter program.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS:
Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby enacts and
adds the following definitions (properly alphabetized) into §92.01 Definitions of the Animals
Chapter of the Fayetteville Code:
Eartip. A mark identifying a feral cat as having been sterilized, specifically the
removal of a quarter inch off the tip of the cat's left ear in a straight line cut
while the cat is anesthetized.
Feral cat. A cat that is not socialized to humans and is not an owned cat.
Feral cat colony. A group of feral cats that congregate together as a unit and
share a common food source.
Sterilize. To spay or neuter.
Trap, Neuter and Return Program. A program pursuant to which feral cats are
trapped, sterilized, vaccinated against rabies, eartipped, returned to the location
where they were captured and provided with long-term care by a Caretaker in
accordance with this Chapter.
Page 2
Ordinance No. 5529
Section 2: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby enacts
§92.35 Managed Care of Feral Cats into the Fayetteville Code as shown on Exhibit A.
PASSED and APPROVED this 2"d day of October, 2012.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
By: , u1 �.i-�BY: ajKj
N LD JO A , Mayor SONDRA E. SMITH, City Clerk/Treasurer-
01 Y
lerk/Treasurer01Y
:FAYETTEVILLE*-
EXHIBIT A
§92.35 Managed Care of Feral Cats the number of kittens born and the
number of cats and kittens adopted or
(A) Trap, Neuter and Return Program placed in foster care.
(C) Caretaker Exemption from §92.22
A Trap, Neuter and Return program (C) and(D)
is established to better control and
manage feral cats who are living in a A Caretaker of a feral cat colony who
colony cared for by a Caretaker. This is properly registered with the approved
program will not be in effect until it is Animal Welfare Organization and in
sponsored and managed by a non-profit compliance with all Caretaker duties
Animal Welfare Organization approved stated above shall be exempt from §92.22
by the Fayetteville Animal Services Running at Large Prohibited subsections
Program. This sponsoring organization (C) and (D) only for allowing properly
shall supervise the Caretakers and managed feral cats from running at large.
ensure the Caretakers perform all duties Any such feral cat which is running at large
imposed upon them by §92.35 (B). This within Fayetteville and is a nuisance or
approved Animal Welfare Organization problem for neighbors may be trapped or
shall report annually to Animal Services caught by Animal Services officers,
concerning the status and population of impounded and dealt with as any other cat
all registered feral cat colonies including or dog captured while running at large
the total number of managed cats and would be handled. Such exemption ends if
the number of cats and kittens sterilized, the Caretaker's status is revoked or
vaccinated and/or placed for adoption. abandoned.
(B) Caretaker Duties (D) Loss of Caretaker Status
A Caretaker of a feral cat colony (1) If a Caretaker fails to
shall regularly provide food, water and adequately perform the duties required by
shelter for the cats in his or her feral cat (B), the Animal Welfare Organization shall
colony. The Caretaker shall make report this failure to Animal Services which
reasonable efforts to: may revoke all of the Caretaker's rights to
care for the feral cat colony and the
(1) trap all cats so they can be exemption from §92.22 (C) and (D). If the
sterilized, vaccinated, and ear-tipped by Caretaker disputes the grounds for
a veterinarian; revocation of his or her Caretaker status,
(2) recapture all cats to update the Caretaker can appeal in writing within
rabies vaccinations as required by state three business days to the Community
law; Services Director who shall conduct a
(3) register all feral cats with the hearing during which the Caretaker can
sponsoring Animal Welfare Organization explain why his or her Caretaker's status
and maintain medical records for all should not be revoked. The Director shall
cats; then make a final determination whether or
(4)find adoptive or foster homes not to revoke the Caretaker's status.
for any kittens born to the feral cats of
the colony; (2) If a person desires to be
(5) report annually in writing the released from Caretaker duties, the person
total number of feral cats in the colony, shall immediately notify the Animal Welfare
the number sterilized and vaccinated, Organization who shall notify the City's
Animal Services Program, which shall status and the duties and exemption
release and revoke the person's Caretaker thereunder.
GJcx
' §
AGENDA REQUEST
FOR: COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 189 2012
FROM:
ALDERMAN BRENDA BOUDREAUX
ORDINANCE OR RESOLUTION TITLE AND SUBJECT:
An Ordinance To Enact New Definitions Into §92.01 Definitions Of The Animals
Chapter Of The Fayetteville Code And To Enact §92.35 Managed Care Of Feral Cats
APPROVED F R AGENDA:
ren OUdreaux Dat 09-11-12P03 47 RCVD
Alderman
ze,
City ttorney Date
(as to form)
aye LVII91C Departmental Correspondence
LEGAL
• • DEPARTMENT
Kit Williams
TO: Mayor Jordan City Attorney
City Council Jason B.Kelley
Assistant City Attorney
CC: Jeremy Pate, Development Services Director
Yolanda Fields, Community Services Director
Justine Middleton, Animal Services Superintendent
FROM: Kit Williams, City Attorney
DATE: September 6, 2012
RE: Control of feral cat population
Animal Services has looked at how some other cities have attempted to
better control and manage their feral cat population. The key is to prevent
breeding in the most effective manner possible. A trap, neuter and return program
appears to be the best solution. Accordingly, we have drafted the proposed new
code section which authorizes such a program in Fayetteville if an Animal Welfare
Organization volunteers to administer the program.
This ordinance was scheduled and heard at the Ordinance Review
Committee with myself, Yolanda Fields, Justine Middleton, Dr. James Robb and
other staff present to discuss the problem of feral cats and this potential new way to
control their population. Several audience members also spoke about this issue
and supported this new ordinance.
Since the Ordinance Review Committee did not have a quorum, no official
vote in support of this ordinance could be taken. However, Chairman Brenda
Boudreaux examined the ordinance, questioned staff and indicated her personal
support for the ordinance to enact a trap, neuter and return program for
Fayetteville.
a e evi le THE CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE,ARKANSAS
Y DEPARTMENT CORRESPONDENCE
ARKANSAS
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
To: City Council
Thru: Yolanda Fields, Dir. Community Ser
From: Justine Middleton, Animal Services Supe ntende
Date: August 30,2012
Subject: New Ordinance for the managed care of feral cats
PROPOSAL:
Allowing for the managed care for existing feral cats is a topic that has arisen repeatedly at the Animal Services
Advisory Board. The main purpose behind allowing such activity is to humanely reduce the population of feral
cats that otherwise goes largely unchecked. Currently, Animal Services will trap ferals cats on a strictly
complaint driven basis. Those cats that are deemed feral are held the required five days and then euthanized.
There is no evidence that this is curbing the feral cat population in any way.
Having a structure in place to allow for well organized management of feral cats through a trap, neuter, and
return (TNR) program will eventually lead to a natural reduction in the number of feral cats as well as an
increase in their current quality of life. Both the Humane Society of the United States and the American Society
for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals endorse trap,neuter, return program. These types of programs are also
highly touted by no kill advocates.
The proposed ordidnance is crafted in a way that will allow for TNR activities to be underwritten by a
sponsoring Animal Welfare Organization (i.e. a third party non-profit) with the day to day management being
given by volunteer caretakers. Animal Services will preform quarterly inspections of each designated colony to
ensure compliance with the requirements of the ordinance.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff endorses this new ordinance as another step in lowering the euthanasia rate at the Animal Shelter in
addition to a more effective and humane means of controlling the existing feral cat population in Fayttcville.
BUDGETIMPACT•
N/A
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE TO ENACT NEW DEFINITIONS INTO §92.01
DEFINITIONS OF THE ANIMALS CHAPTER OF THE FAYETTEVILLE
CODE AND TO ENACT §92.35 MANAGED CARE OF FERAL CATS
WHEREAS, increased efforts to control feral cats and reduce their ability to reproduce is
needed in Fayetteville; and
WHEREAS, an ordinance for managed care of feral cats would improve control over
feral cats and reduce their overall number through a spay and neuter program.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE,ARKANSAS:
Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby enacts and
adds the following definitions (properly alphabetized) into §92.01 Definitions of the Animals
Chapter of the Fayetteville Code:
Eartip. A mark identifying a feral cat as having been sterilized, specifically the
removal of a quarter inch off the tip of the cat's left ear in a straight line cut
while the cat is anesthetized.
Feral cat. A cat that is not socialized to humans and is not an owned cat.
Feral cat colony. A group of feral cats that congregate together as a unit and
share a common food source.
Sterilize. To spay or neuter.
Trap, Neuter and Return Program. A program pursuant to which feral cats are
trapped, sterilized, vaccinated against rabies, eartipped, returned to the location
where they were captured and provided with long-term care by a Caretaker in
accordance with this Chapter.
Section 2: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby enacts
§92.35 Managed Care of Feral Cats into the Fayetteville Code as shown on Exhibit A.
PASSED and APPROVED this 18`h day of September, 2012.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
By: By:
LIONELD JORDAN, Mayor SONDRA E. SMITH, City Clerk/Treasurer
EXHIBIT A
"§92.35 Managed Care of Feral Cats
(A) Trap, Neuter and Return Program
A Trap, Neuter and Return program is established to better control and manage feral
cats who are living in a colony cared for by a Caretaker. This program will not be in
effect until it is sponsored and managed by a non-profit Animal Welfare Organization
approved by the Fayetteville Animal Services Program. This sponsoring organization
shall supervise the Caretakers and ensure the Caretakers perform all duties imposed upon
them by §92.35 (B). This approved Animal Welfare Organization shall report annually
to Animal Services concerning the status and population of all registered feral cat
colonies including the total number of managed cats and the number of cats and kittens
sterilized, vaccinated and/or placed for adoption.
(B) Caretaker Duties
A Caretaker of a feral cat colony shall regularly provide food, water and shelter for
the cats in his or her feral cat colony. The Caretaker shall make reasonable efforts to:
(1) trap all cats so they can be sterilized, vaccinated, and ear-tipped by a
veterinarian;
(2) recapture all cats to update rabies vaccinations as required by state law;
(3) register all feral cats with the sponsoring Animal Welfare Organization and
maintain medical records for all cats;
(4) find adoptive or foster homes for any kittens born to the feral cats of the
colony;
(5) report annually in writing the total number of feral cats in the colony, the
number sterilized and vaccinated, the number of kittens born and the number of
cats and kittens adopted or placed in foster care.
(C) Caretaker Exemption from x'92.22 (C) and(D)
A Caretaker of a feral cat colony who is properly registered with the
approved Animal Welfare Organization and in compliance with all Caretaker
Duties stated above shall be exempt from §92/22 Running at Large Prohibited
subsections (C) and (D) only for allowing properly managed feral cats from
running at large. Any such feral cat which is running at large within
Fayetteville and is a nuisance or problem for neighbors may be trapped or caught
by Animal Services officers, impounded and dealt with as any other cat or dog
captured while running at large would be handled. Such exemption ends if the
Caretaker's status is revoked or abandoned.
(D) Loss of Caretaker Status
(1) If a Caretaker fails to adequately perform the duties required by(B), the Animal
Welfare Organization shall report this failure to Animal Services which may revoke
all of the Caretaker's rights to care for the feral cat colony and the exemption from
§92.22 (C) and (D). If the Caretaker disputes the grounds for revocation of his or
her Caretaker status, the Caretaker can appeal in writing within three business days
to the Community Services Director who shall conduct a hearing during which the
Caretaker can explain why his or her Caretaker's status should not be revoked. The
Director shall then make a final determination whether or not to revoke the
Caretaker's status.
(2) If a person desires to be released from Caretaker duties, the person shall
immediately notify the Animal Welfare Organization who shall notify the City's
Animal Services Program, which shall release and revoke the person's Caretaker
status and the duties and exemption thereunder.
FAYETTEVILLE CODE OF ORDINANCES
TITLE IX GENERAL REGULATIONS
CHAPTER 92 ANIMALS
ARTICLE I Harbor. For a period of three days or more,to keep
GENERAL PROVISIONS and care for an animal or provide a premises to which
the animal returns.
92.01 Definitions Kennel means a structure or facility used for the
For the purpose of this chapter the following definitions purpose of breeding two or more litters of puppies or
shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or kittens within any twelve month period. A facility used
requires a different meaning. for commercially boarding more than three dogs or cats
Abandon. Any person who knowingly deserts an or.combination thereof at any time shall be considered a
animal on public or private property. 'Kennel'.
Animal.Any living creature,domestic or wild. Locked Enclosure. A fence or pen, or structure with
all gates or entrances locked with a key or combination
Animal shelter. Any facility operated by a humane' device. The structure forming or causing an enclosure
society,municipal agency or its authorized agent(s)for of sufficient strength or construction to contain the
the purpose of impounding or caring for animals held specific animal and prevent the animal from escaping.
under the authority of this chapter or state law. Microchip. An identifying integrated circuit placed
At large.Not underthe physical control of the animal's under the skin of a dog or cat for purposes of identifying
owner or harborer, or his authorized representative, the owner of the animal.
either by leash,trolley system,or enclosure. An animal Noisy Animals. Any domestic animal which barks,
intruding upon or damaging the property of another whines, or howls in an unwarranted, or continuous, or
person or upon public property, trespassing on school loud, or frequent fashion.
grounds, harassing passersby or passing vehicles, or
interfering with refuse collection, harassing meter pet Shop means a commercial establishment or
readers and not under the physical control referred to facility which regularly sells pets such as dogs, cats,
herein shall be deemed "running at large."An animal birds,rodents,reptiles and/or fish to the general public.
within an automobile or other vehicle shall not be Pet Shops are only allowed in C-1,C-2,C-3,Downtown
deemed "running at large" if the animal is physically
confined to the vehicle. An animal shall not be Core, Mainstreet Center, Downtown General and by
considered "at large" when on the premises of the Conditional Use in R-OCenter,
Districts
owner or harborer thereof and accompanied by the Restrained. Any animal,secured by leash and under
owner or harborer. the control of owner or harborer. At public events of 100
Cat.A feline of either sex, including one neutered or persons or more,leashes shall be a maximum length of
sterilized. 6 feet. The animal must be within 4 feet of the owner or
harborer.
City.City of Fayetteville,Arkansas. Special Event. A specified or designated public
Dangerous Animal. Any animal which, when occurrence, affair, or event at which more than three
unprovoked, approaches in a manner of attack any hundred(300)persons are reasonably expected by the
person or domestic animal upon the streets,sidewalks, organizer or sponsor thereof to be in attendance.
or any other public ground or place. Sterilize means to surgically alter an animal so that it
Dog.A canine of either sex,including one neutered or cannot reproduce.
sterilized. Tether.A rope,chain,or cable of appropriate strength
Enclosure. A fence or pen, or structure formingor that is firmly anchored to the bed of an open bed pickup
causing an enclosure of sufficient strength or truck or similar vehicle in at least two places.Tether is
construction to contain the specific animal and prevent to be used to restrain the animal and fastened to the
the animal from escaping. Owners confining dogs or animal by means of a harness or collar and to be the
cats by means of an enclosure must provide a minimum appropriate length as to afford the animal freedom to
space of 100 square feet(10x10)per dog or cat four(4) move about the vehicle, but to restrict the animal to a
months of age or older. set radius to prevent it from reaching either side or the
rear of the vehicle so that the animal cannot be thrown
, .. CD92:3
Page 1 of I
City Clerk - Management of the Feral Cat population
From: Alan Long <alanthomaslong@gmail.com>
To: Adella Gray <adellag@cox.net>, Adella Gray <wardl posI@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>, Bob
Ferrell <ward3 jos2@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>, Brenda Boudreaux
<wardl_pos2@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>, Justin Tennant <ward3_post@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>,
mark kinion <mkinion@cox.net>, mark kinion <ward2_posI @ci.fayetteville.ar.us>, Matthew
Petty <ward2 pos2@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>, Rhonda Adams
<ward4_posl@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>, Sarah Lewis <ward4 pos2@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>,
mayor <mayor@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>
Date: 9/18/2012 1:14 PM
Subject: Management of the Feral Cat population
CC: City Clerk<city_clerk@ci.fayetteville.ar.us>
I will be unable to attend the city council meeting tonight, but I want you all to know that this proposal
has my unmitigated support. This is the best, humane way for Fayetteville to address the feral cat
population. This was discussed by members of the ASAB and the board members also agree that this is
a positive change.
I appreciate your thoughtful consideration of this proposal. Please let me know if you have any
questions or concerns.
Best Regards,
Alan Long, Waterman Woods
Candidate for Fayetteville City Council -Ward 4
Fayetteville Animal Services Advisory Board Chairman
www.LongWard4.com
Longward4(Wgmail.com
www.facebook.com/longward4
Twitter. @longward4
479.466.8219
file://C:\Documents and Settings\lbranson\Local Settings\Temp\XPgrpwise\505873B6FA... 9/18/2012
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AlleyCatAllie
The call? leading advocate
Home I What We Do / Care for Cats! How to Implement an Organizational Trap -Neuter -Return Program
How to Implement an Organizational Trap -Neuter -Return Program
Feral cats require a different kind of care because they are unsocialized to people and are not candidates for
adoption. Many organizations recognize their unique needs, and offer information about how to improve the
lives of stray and feral cats. Others want to go a step further and launch their own Trap -Neuter -Return
programs. These groups understand that the best practice is to neuter, vaccinate, and allow feral cats to
remain in their original habitat along with their colony members. Alley Cat Allies' guidelines will help
organizations interested in adopting this humane, life-saving program implement one that is effective and
sustainable.
Because every community faces different circumstances when it comes to implementing a trap -Neuter -Return
program, there is no single formula for success —though there are basic common denominators. One town
may already have a flourishing feral cat care model in place. Another community may face an uphill battle, with
punitive laws or public perceptions that are obstacles to implementing a program.
Most effective programs include some element of the seven steps outlined and explained below. Though none
are required, consider each one and how it applies to your organization and locale before moving forward.
Benefits of an Organizational Trap -Neuter -Return Program
Through Trap -Neuter -Return, cats are humanely trapped, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered. Stray cats
(cats socialized to humans) and kittens are adopted into homes, and healthy adult feral cats are returned to
their outdoor homes, where their lives are greatly improved without the strains of mating behaviors and
pregnancy. Another important component of a Trap -Neuter -Return program includes outreach —promoting
organizational services and educating the public about humane methods of cat care.
For an organizational program, it is important to understand that Trap -Neuter -Return involves straightforward
steps that result in significant, measurable, and positive outcomes for the cats, the community, and your
organization.
Organizations realize positive benefits after implementing Trap -Neuter -Return, including:
• Improving the cats' lives;
• Stabilizing colonies —reproduction stops and litters are not born;
• An immediate reduction in calls from neighbors about behaviors associated with mating, including
spraying, caterwauling, fighting, roaming, and breeding;
Resources previously spent on ineffective removal and/or lethal services are spent on non -lethal, life-
saving, positive, publicly -supported initiatives such as subsidized neuter services, adoption, and
outreach programs; and
Positive public reaction, fundraisingplatforms and partnership opportunities, media exposure, and
support from staff, volunteers, other like-minded organizations, and the community at large.
Seven Recommended Considerations for Trap -Neuter -Return Program Implementation
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1. Gather baseline statistics and assess your community.
2. Build your "people power."
3. Set policies and establish a trapping plan.
4. Determine a funding plan.
5. Set a veterinary care plan.
6. Organize a community outreach component to educate the public, promote services, and build
support.
7. Evaluate the success of your Trap -Neuter -Return program.
1. Gather baseline statistics and assess your community.
Gather statistics.
Statistics are an invaluable measure of progress. Take time to collect a baseline of facts and figures
about your organization prior to implementing your Trap -Neuter -Return program, and update them at
regular intervals (at least once a month) after the program is fully implemented. You can then track the
impact that Trap -Neuter -Return is having on your community's animal services system in both the short
- and long-term.
Document the following every month:
o The number of outdoor cat -related calls
The specific concern (noise, smell, kittens, animals on- property, sick animals)
o The specific location of the cats in the community
o The number of cats picked up/accepted by your organization
o The number of cats your organization adopts out
= The number of cats killed (if applicable) —specify how many were feral out of the total
o The number of cats spayed or neutered and returned to their outdoor colonies
o The number of people who contacted your organization looking for animals to adopt
o The total amount of your budget spent caring for stray and feral cats, and the amount that this
care costs per cat
o The cost of spaying or neutering one male cat; one female cat; average per cat
o The percentage of employee/volunteer turnover
o The number of Trap -Neuter -Return volunteers
Community support —in dollars and in number of participants (for all programs, not just Trap -
Neuter -Return)
Assess your community.
Because every community faces unique circumstances, your Trap -Neuter -Return program will be built
around the information you gather as you assess the needs, availability of resources, and potential
roadblocks to success. Identify and understand the following areas before moving ahead:
Need
What programs are currently in place for stray and feral cats? Are any feral cats in the
community part of neutered/vaccinated colonies? Have they been neutered?
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Use your gathered statistics and local connections to determine the appropriate approach for
your organization to take. If there is already a thriving feral cat group, you may consider working
with them to provide services they require, such as a subsidized neuter clinic and a volunteer
pool. If there are only nascent groups, you will want to build partnerships and possibly
contribute to program management. If there are no programs currently in place, you will have to
build one from the ground up.
Current Level of Support
What is the general perception of cats within the community? How involved is the community
with feral cats and with your organization?
Use your research on cat -related calls, as well as other avenues that might help you gauge the
public's support for feral cat related programs. These could include the success level of other
groups' current programs (funding, volunteers, supporter base) as well as any possible media
coverage of feral cats (and if it is positive or negative in tone).
o Potential Roadblocks
Are there punitive or misinterpreted laws on the books that threaten or penalize caregivers or
put cats unnecessarily at risk?
These and other potential roadblocks can actually be turned in your favor as educational
opportunities. Take advantage of these situations to promote the need for humane care and
mediate with disgruntled groups to get to the source of and properly address their problems.
2. Build your "people power."
Hire or appoint a feral cat coordinator.
Having a staff member/volunteer responsible for feral cat protocols and information within the
organization is a great way to jump-start a Trap -Neuter -Return program. This person would be
responsible for educating the rest of the organization on protocols, including how to respond to the
public regarding feral cats. This person would also:
o Create and implement humane protocols for feral cats.
o Educate and train volunteers/staff on Trap -Neuter -Return protocol and trapping techniques.
o Create and manage local trap depots so that residents can borrow traps for use in Trap -Neuter -
Return.
o Determine target areas for Trap -Neuter -Return based'on'phone calls from the public.
o Coordinate targeted trapping events and neuter appointments for feral cats.
o Communicate with neighborhoods in order to educate, identify caregivers and feral cat
colonies, coordinate trapping, and organize volunteers.
o Process all feral cat intake paperwork from clinics. Manage database of feral cats that have
gone through clinics.
o Develop and maintain relationships with community feral cat volunteers and other
organizations.
o Plan and host community outreach and training meetings or workshops.
o Procure necessary equipment for Trap -Neuter -Return program.
o Identify and apply for appropriate grants and other funding mechanisms to carry out Trap -
Neuter -Return and offer services for caregivers of outdoor cats.
o Evaluate the success of the Trap -Neuter -Return program through statistical analysis.
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Volunteers
Recruit and train a volunteer base willing to help with Trap -Neuter -Return. Potential volunteers can be
found by: working with other local feral cat groups and colony caregivers; returning calls from the public
about feral cats; and recruiting through your public education efforts. Emphasize that there are many
different roles for volunteers, including trapping, neuter clinic support, fostering, and administrative
tasks.
Partnerships
Partnerships with other organizations can guarantee your Trap -Neuter -Return program's success.
Work with local animal control or animal services to support and implement the Trap -Neuter -Return
program. Progressive and compassionate animal control officers have the ability to educate the public
during their interactions about feral and stray cats and refer residents to workshops and local neuter
resources.
If you are collaborating with other animal organizations, be sure to: encourage participation of key
stakeholders; establish the project leaders; involve each organization in discussing the plans; and keep
everyone informed of the program's progress.
Working with feral cat caregivers and other concerned citizens is a key ingredient. Often they know the
details that you need about colonies —they have been on the ground, doing the hands-on work.
3. Set policies and establish a trapping plan.
Set policies.
Launching an organization -sponsored Trap -Neuter -Return program is just one element in your new,
comprehensive humane approach for cats. If you operate a shelter, then our Feline -Friendly
Practices cover the steps shelters must take to best serve the cats and the public.
Establish a trapping plan.
Once you have the research and support in place, you can get down to creating a trapping plan. Use
your data to identify colonies and map their locations. Use your connections with caregivers and
volunteers to put your trapping plan into practice.
Step -by -Step Trap -Neuter -Return
Learn all you can about the actual process of Trap -Neuter -Return. Read our How to Conduct
Trap -Neuter -Return Guide (http:/lwww.alleycatorglTrap-Neuter-Return) and watch our
video, Trapping Cats: How to Trap an Entire Colony.
Pilot Program
Once you have these preparations in place, consider implementing a pilot Trap -Neuter -Return
program before attempting to address the entire community. A pilot program focuses Trap -
Neuter -Return on no more than one or two neighborhoods. Pilot programs are designed to be
successful with the minimum commitment level of resources and volunteers. They are also a
good way to get buy -in from government officials, if that is a goal of your organization. Providing
assurance that the program will be tested first and modified as needed has persuasive power. If
the pilot works, it is more likely that an expansion program will be supported.
Targeted Trapping
Targeted trapping is a method of trapping, neutering, and vaccinating an entire colony at one
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time before moving on to the surrounding colonies in a specific geographic location. This
method is inclusive of all cats in the neighborhood, because it provides opportunities for
residents to get their companion cats neutered and vaccinated at a reduced cost. Including
these cats helps reduce the chances of future colonies being created. Targeted trapping allows
you to focus your work judiciously and accomplish more in the long -run.
4. Determine a funding plan.
We often hear from organizations claiming they do not have money to institute a Trap -Neuter -Return program.
In the case of pounds and shelters, when they stop trapping, holding and feeding, killing, and disposing of
stray and feral cats they realize substantial budgetary savings. But savings from implementing Trap -Neuter -
Return programs are not limited to pounds and shelters alone. Other organizations dealing with adoptions, for
example, will also see cost savings as Trap -Neuter -Return reduces kitten litters —and therefore also reduces
resources spent on adoption.
Use Savings to invest in New, Humane Programs
For shelters, the money saved across almost every budgetary line item can be allocated for providing
humane services —including a Trap -Neuter -Return program, but also subsidized neuter services,
adoption, and outreach programs —for cats.
Fundraise around your new approach
Improving your organization's services by introducing Trap -Neuter -Return means that you are gaining
a new fundraising platform. The public and foundations will be more interested in supporting your
organization when they hear that you are adopting a more humane approach for cats.
Check out www.sheltersource.orglfundraising.html, www.sheitersource.org/grants.html,
www.petsmartcharities.org, and www.petco.com for grant opportunities. Many of these grant programs are
interested in hearing about a focus on the feral and stray cat population or on increasing neuter availability. For
other fundraising suggestions, read our Fundraising Guide (http://www.alleycat.org/Page.aspx?pid=483).
5. Set a veterinary care plan.
Feral cats require a special veterinary approach that takes into account their unique needs and the fact that
they are unsocialized to humans. For Trap -Neuter -Return to be successful, you must have a veterinary care
plan in place with professionals who are comfortable with the specific methods and procedures necessary to
provide appropriate care for feral cats. Read our Feral Cat Veterinary Care Guide
(http://www.alleycat.orgiVeterinarian) to determine exactly what you must have in place.
Then, determine your ability to provide neuter services.
If your organization has a clinic on site, provide subsidized or low-cost neuter services for stray and feral cats.
Some organizations set aside one day a week specifically for feral cats. If possible, offer weekend neuter
services to allow feral cat caregivers to trap when most convenient. For help, access our Spay and Neuter
Clinic Information (http:ilwww.alleycat.org/Page.aspx?pid=463), watch or order our video, Feral Cat Clinic
Procedure(http://www.alleycat.org/Page.aspx?pid=492), and order Operation Catnip's manual, idealism in
Action in our Marketplace (http:llwww.alleycat.org/Page.aspx?pid=469). For more hands-on information
visit the Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Project (http:l/www.feralcatproject:orgo and Humane Alliance
(http:/iwww.humanealliance.orgo.
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If your organization does not have a clinic, convince local veterinarians to provide subsidized or low-cost
neuter for feral cats (even if only offered one day per month). It may be necessary to subsidize expenses
and/or purchase supplies for use on spay days. Consider assisting with paperwork and intake procedures.
6. Organize a community outreach component to educate the public,
promote services, and build support.
The majority of callers reporting outdoor cats are looking for help. Callers can't ask for services that they do
not know are available. And they also may not understand all of their options.
Take advantage of every opportunity. to educate.
Share educational materials and information about: feral cats and their life in colonies outdoors (that
they are not candidates for adoption); humane ways to deter cats from unwanted areas such as
gardens and play areas; Trap -Neuter -Return; and your organization's response to feral cats through:
o Newsletters
" Website. Post a ready-made webpage about outdoor cats and Trap -Neuter -Return on your own
website (http:liwww.alleycat.org/Document.Doc?id=106) (instructions:
http://www.alleycat.org/Document.DOc?ithlO7).
o Blog
" Advertising, press releases, and articles placed in local media. Learn more about working with
the media (http:llwww.alleycat.orglPage.aspx?pid=373) and creating publicity materials
(http://www.alleycat.org/Page.as px?pid=372).
" Distributing flyers and posters in local neighborhoods
" Being a guest speaker at schools and local community clubs
Posting on in -shelter displays and bulletin boards
o Communicating with residents when they call the organization for help with cats
o Hosting public workshops. Learn more about how to host a Helping Community Cats Workshop
(http:/Iwww.alleycat.org/Page.SSPX?Pid371).
Promote your organization's services.
When discussing your organization's approach for feral cats with the public, explain:
Trap -Neuter -Return and its benefits to the community and the lives of the cats.
That you will be providing tools and support to community volunteers to help you implement
Trap -Neuter -Return.
In the case of shelters, your policy of no longer picking up or accepting stray and feral cats.
Share important information about cats.
Be aware that some community members will want the cats to "go someplace else" after they have
been trapped. Educate the public about the vacuum effect and the failures associated with relocation of
feral cats. Indicate that cats will not be removed from areas where they currently reside. In some cases
it may be necessary to gently remind people that it is illegal for any individual to harm a cat, as stated
in your state's animal anti -cruelty laws.
Read more information that you can' share with the public about how to deter cats from areas where
they are not wanted (http:/Iwww.alleycat.org/deterrents).
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Go to our marketplace (http:/lwww.alleyeat.org/marketplace) to purchase brochures with this and
other information to distribute in your community.
Build community support by including the public in your programs.
Purchase a supply of traps to lend out to the public. Consider charging a refundable deposit to ensure
that traps are returned. Learn how to use the traps and become familiar with trapping
techniques. Learn more about Alley Cat Allies equipment suggestions for feral cats
(http://www.alleycat.org/Equipment). Include information about how to trap feral cats with each trap,
and always make sure people borrowing traps sign an agreement stating that the traps will be used
only for the purpose of Trap -Neuter -Return. Show borrowers how to set the traps before they leave
your facility.
See the "People Power' section for more information about including community members in your
programs.
7. Evaluate the progress of your Trap -Neuter -Return program.
Using the baseline statistics that you gathered prior to the implementation of the program, determine the
impact Trap -Neuter -Return is having in your community. Refer to the tracking statistics posed under the
"Gather Baseline Statistics" section above. Compare and contrast the statistics prior to the program and after
the program has been established.
Be sure to continually measure your success. Accurate statistics will help identify areas that need
improvement. Adjust the program accordingly, and demonstrate the effectiveness of your changes.
Our experience has shown that by taking into account these seven guidelines, organizations can implement a
successful Trap -Neuter -Return program that improves the lives of cats and in helping improve your
community. You will be joining a movement that values cats' lives and paves the way for the expansion of
humane care for cats.
® 2012 Alley Cat Allies
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