MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – Two-hundred felines that are part of Wood County’s feral cat population will soon be getting help from nonprofit group The Fix Is In. Called Trap Neuter Return (or TNR), the program helps control local cat populations and benefits the community at large (learn more HERE).
In August, The Fix Is In will be helping two properties in Wood County: a trailer park in Marshfield and a colony in Wisconsin Rapids.
“There could be over 200 cats needing to be fixed! Please consider donating as these are low income locations that need our assistance!” the organization said. “Donations can be submitted via Facebook, mailed to PO Box 32, Lake Tomahawk, WI, 54539, or via paypal to [email protected].”
The Fix Is In has been visiting Wood County periodically and local properties and farmers are already seeing a significant positive impact thanks to their efforts. Carrie Gillaspie has been organizing some of these local clinics and explains the benefits.
“Since starting the clinics, my rural neighbors have seen a significant decline in their cat populations,” said Gillaspie, adding that her clinic scheduled for July is already full due to high demand. “Outdoor cats are an important part of our ecosystem, but when they become overpopulated it leads to disease and other issues. It’s great to hear that the clinics are helping restore balance here in Central Wisconsin! Not only have my neighbors gotten control of their cat populations but the cats they do have are also healthier because they’ve been vaccinated.”
Gillaspie added that there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding TNR, but extensive research and real-life applications reveal ample benefits to not only feline populations but also the community as a whole.
“It’s not a new practice, but is gaining popularity here in Wisconsin. There is so much research out there about the benefits,” said Gillaspie. “TNR really works and has so many benefits for cats, humans, and other wildlife. The best thing anyone can do to help is fix their pet. Humans caused these issues, so it’s our responsibility to do what we can to help.”
“Unfixed feral cats go through such a terrible cycle of suffering and the only PROVEN real humane way to get ahead of it is TNR,” she added. “Otherwise, you’re always just playing catch up. Plus, it costs less money in the long run.”
Local group Fixing Feisty Felines also applauded the upcoming efforts in Wood County.
“August is shaping up to be a busy month! Two properties across Wood County are scheduled to have cats fixed!” coordinator Bree Richardson shared on Facebook. “Your donation will go a long ways to helping the cats, communities, and our shelters!”
Through TNR, feral community cats are humanely trapped, brought to a veterinarian to be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, ear tipped (the universal sign that a community cat has been altered and vaccinated), and then returned to their outdoor home where they are most comfortable. Any community cats deemed friendly and adoptable will be taken to a shelter to find indoor homes.
To learn more about TNR, visit www.AlleyCatAllies.com.
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Author: News Desk
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