GREENVILLE — Judy Francis, president of the Darke County Humane Society, says the feral cat population is growing.
“It’s problem in every town,” she said. “We don’t eliminate them by killing them off. The solution is to trap, neuter and return (TNR) the cats to their colony. That’s how you get it under control.”
The society has used TNR on a small scale locally, spaying or neutering more than 500 cats in the southeastern part of the city of Greenville. Future plans include introducing TNR to feral cat colonies in the village of Versailles.
“We find it great when a city comes to us saying ‘We want to help solve the problem,’” said Francis. “And we’re proud of the efforts we’re making with cats.”
Humane Society Shelter Director Dustin Wills says the cost to spay or neuter each cat typically runs between $50 to $75. Much of this is offset by the generosity of local veterinarians willing to perform the service at low cost. As well, the society’s TNR program has been the beneficiary of grants in this regard.
“A PetSmart Charities grant helped us with the southeast Greenville [TNR] project,” said Wills.
Last year, the society picked up 171 sick, injured or abused cats. It also took in 54 dogs.
“On any given day, we have about 18 cats at our shelter,” Wills said. “And spring is always the worst time for cats giving birth.”
Want to help make a difference in the lives of area dogs and cats (among other furry friends)?
Consider making bids at the Darke County Humane Society’s 8th annual charity auction, scheduled for Saturday, April 16 at PAWS Bingo Hall, 848 Martin Street in Greenville, Ohio.
A spaghetti dinner will be held beginning at 5 p.m. with the auction to follow at 6:30 p.m. Tickets to the event are a $10 donation. The meal includes spaghetti, salad, breadsticks, dessert and one non-alcoholic beverage (beer and wine will be available for additional cost).
Items to be auctioned have been donated by a great number of local merchants and individuals. Items include a Disney Vacation Package, a leather dog bed, coffee and end tables set, numerous gift certificates, Cincinnati Reds tickets, Indy 500 tickets, autographed items, among many more goods.
Proceeds from the sale will help the society continue its efforts to help abused, neglected or injured animals. As well, it will further the society’s special efforts to spay and neuter feral cats in the area.
Another upcoming event is the Humane Society’s Spring Shot Clinic, held Saturday, April 30 at PAWS Bingo Hall. The low-cost clinic runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pet owners may bring their cats or dogs to the event for the purpose of getting the animals up to date on vaccinations and having them heartworm tested.
The Darke County Humane Society, a charitable 501(c)3 animal welfare organization, was founded in 1953. It receive funds through donations, bequests, grants and fundraising. These funds are used to pay for expenses including veterinary services, food, shelter, medications and spay/neuter assistance. The society receives no funding from, nor are is affiliated with, any national humane organizations.
In addition, as a private non-profit organization dedicated to serving the animal and people of Darke County, the society receives no government funding. The Darke County Humane Society exists through the support of the community.
For more information on the charity auction, the shot clinic or any other society services, contact the Humane Society by phone at 937-548-1009 or contact the society via its website at www.darkecountyhumanesociety.org.
