A Minneapolis-based shelter recently announced a change in its policies, which has raised concerns about the feral cat population among animal lovers. On July 1, the organization stopped offering its free Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) services due to budget constraints. Rescuers will have to pay out of their pocket for the felines to get spayed or neutered, which might discourage many and increase the number of feral cats around the region.
Shelter changes policies, raises concerns about increase in feral cat population in Minneapolis
As of last Monday, the Animal Humane Society (AHS) stopped its free TNR services. The Minneapolis-based shelter’s policy change has led to rising concerns among rescuers. No-cost sterilization encouraged more people to participate in actively capturing and spaying or neutering feral kitties. However, with the policy change, they believe there is a high chance of a sharp increase in the feral cat population in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Non-profit organizations like Bitty Kitty Brigade and Pet Project Rescue used AHS’ free services to help with sterilization costs. However, with the policy change, they might be unable to help as many felines as they used to. Moreover, many individuals who helped with the trapping of ferals can’t afford to pay out of their own pockets, which will also decrease the number of independent cat trappers.
According to CBS News , the Animal Humane Society had to change its policy due to a $3.5 million shortfall in its budget. Compared to the other changes, stopping the free TNR services was a harder decision, as the staff members knew it would have a significant impact. However, without the policy change, they couldn’t have continued.
Non-profit organizations are raising money to help individual rescuers. They plan to raise $25,000 to fund the cat rescue missions through the summer. Meanwhile, they will also look into solutions that could help them in the long run. State programs and grant funding are some of the potentials that they might be looking into.
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