In support of the local community I would like to share the following message:

Feral Cat Challenge  The Trap-Neuter-Return Project

The City of Ontario has committed a $5,000 matching fund if the residents of Ontario contribute $5,000 or more between August 1, 2009 and October 1, 2009 to the TNR project.  The area veterinarians are supporting this project. Tax deductible contributions can be made at: Ontario City Hall (if you send a check please indicate that it is for the TNR Feral Cat Project), Eastern Oregon Animal Health, Ontario Animal Hospital or Four Rivers Veterinary Clinic.  You may also see contribution jars around town to accept donations. 

This project is based on the successful similar project in Baker City.  There have been other successful projects in other parts of the country also.  While eradication, the deliberate and systematic destruction of feral cat populations almost always results in the "vacuum effect" of new cats flocking to the vacated area or survivors breeding more and producing more cautious descendants, the Trap-Neuter-Release method has proven successful in reducing the numbers of cats and saving an average of 47% in the cost of animal control of cats.  All cats in a colony will be captured and evaluated for health. If healthy they will be spayed, neutered and vaccinated then released back to the area they were captured. If ill the cats will be humanely euthanized. Cats to be released will be ear-tipped to identify them as spayed or neutered. Whenever possible kittens young enough to be socialized and friendly adults will be placed for adoption.

The project will be staffed by volunteers. The spay/neuter clinic services will be donated by local veterinarians. All donations to the project will be used for project services such as a public awareness campaign and trapping supplies, to name a few.

Volunteers as well as donations are welcome.  You may contact the group either through one of the Ontario veterinary practices or through the website. 

PLEASE BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION AND MAKE A DONATION.   THANK  YOU

Anne Wickersham
Ontario TNR Feral Cat Project/Eastern Oregon Animal Health
(541) 889-6711 or (208)405-5866   eoah@srvinet.com