Virginia and Iowa cats get reprieve

In Chantilly, VA, the property management company at the Meadows of Chantilly has decided to collaborate with Alley Cat Allies to strengthen the existing Trap-Neuter-Return program rather than catching and killing the 200 cats who live in the community. Alley Cat Allies applauds their willingness to partner with us to do what’s best for the community and the cats.

Thanks to the more than 2,000 letters from advocates and Alley Cat Allies' offer of help, the company reassessed their earlier decision and agreed to work with us and their residents to ensure the cats’ safety.

Now we are working on a plan with the management company, Equity LifeStyle Properties. We are poised to mobilize over 150 local volunteers and organizations who have offered to help in the coming days, weeks, and months. We will educate residents, find homes for stray cats and kittens, implement deterrents, and coordinate and carry out all aspects of the Trap-Neuter-Return program. If you are willing to offer hands-on assistance, please e-mail washdc@alleycat.org.

Meanwhile, the cats of Randolph, IA, are also safe. Ever since Mayor Vance Trively instituted a $5 bounty payment on catching and delivering live cats and dogs to the him to be killed, Alley Cat Allies has been working — with your help — to put a stop to the inhumane practice.

Thanks to the more than 3,500 letters you sent and to the help of local supporters and the Iowa State Veterinarian, the Randolph, Iowa’s City Council has overridden the mayor’s plan.

Supporters and several Feral Friends Network members attended the council meeting yesterday on Alley Cat Allies’ behalf and presented the city council and mayor with an offer to assist with launching a Trap-Neuter-Return program.

Given the cease-and-desist request to the mayor from the state veterinarian, the city council voted to shut down the mayor’s operation and institute an effective, humane program. Alley Cat Allies will work with the Randolph City Council to implement a Trap-Neuter-Return program including workshops which will help educate residents about feral cats.

It is heartwarming to know that our community is ready and willing to stand up and fight for our nation's cats when they are threatened. Thank you for all you did this week. Together, we saved lives.

Becky Robinson
President, Alley Cat Allies