No TNR yet for Uhrichsville’s stray cats
UHRICHSVILLE (WJER) (Aug. 1, 2022) – City officials are still trying to get the stray cat sterilization program council authorized last fall up and running.
Members in November voted to allow the Tuscarawas County TNR Project or another group to trap the stray cats around town, have them spayed or neutered and return them to their colonies. Service Director Everett says the effort has yet to get underway but the city’s stray cat population keeps growing.
“I have met with a couple of female residents in the West side. They’re estimating approximately 50 cats in their area, and it’s become a big issue. “
TNR Project leaders say they would be happy to assist but there’s been talk among city officials about punishing people who feed the cats roaming around, which isn’t compatible with their methods. Here’s what At-Large Councilman Jim Zucal had to say about it during Thursday’s meeting.
“When you’re bringing in unwanted cats and feeding them at a site – and I know that happens out at the plaza. I know it happens in other parts of the city – you’re inviting them and you’re inviting disease and you’re inviting issues. That’s part of the problem.”
The Tuscarawas County TNR Project currently serves Dover, New Philadelphia, and Dennison. As of Friday, they had trapped, sterilized, and returned 471 cats and found homes for 170 kittens.