Joel Tyner should be cherished, not condemned Letters

Trap, neuter and release of cats is not humane

Dear Editor: Re “Ulster County woman’s effort to euthanize feral cats stirs fierce debate with advocates of trapping, neutering,” July 15, 2017: I am a retired state trooper who worked on hundreds of cases of cruelty, a wildlife rehabilitator, and a past animal shelter volunteer. I presently serve on the New York State Humane Association’s Committee on Humane Legislation. The association is one of the oldest animal welfare organizations in the country. We strongly oppose trap, neuter and release of cats.

Furthermore, we have found Gail Mihocko’s Project Cat to be one of the most responsible animal shelters in this state.

Cats, just like dogs, are domesticated and considered companion animals in New York. In 2015, Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a veto message in response to legislation that would have diverted funding to trap, neuter, release programs. In his message, he reiterated that trap, neuter and release is in direct contradiction with state Agriculture and Markets Law §374.5. The governor rightly included this specific section in his message because it highlights the responsibility of shelters and humane societies, including the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. They are charged with the care of domesticated animals, to prevent their cruelty and suffering.

Trap, neuter and release only leads to starvation, disease and cruelty for cats. It attracts nuisance wildlife, such as raccoons, foxes, skunks, etc., and then those animals must be killed.

Trap, neuter and release is not the answer to the homeless cat crisis. The answer is to require that all cats be spayed and neutered, licensed, microchipped and kept indoors.

Susan McDonough, Kingston Dear Editor: Re “Dutchess County Legislature votes to censure Joel Tyner,” July 10, 2017: Tyner, D-Clinton, is a courageous and compassionate crusader for justice in our community. He is a voice for the voiceless and speaks up for the powerless, the disenfranchised and the “little guy.” He supports small businesses, fiscal responsibility, prison reform, free speech and equality for all. He opposes cronyism, corruption and highly questionable campaign contributions made to the big players in Dutchess County politics.

The political establishment (both Republicans and Democrats) are terrified by the truth telling of Tyner, and they have been trying, unsuccessfully, to silence him for years. These political hacks fear his honesty and despise his integrity.

Tyner deserves commendation not censure. Cooperation not criticism. Celebration not castigation. And to be cherished and not condemned.

In spite of these spurious and cowardly attacks, Tyner will continue to tell it like it is. I would urge his detractors to focus on and debate the policy issues and cease the character assassination and name calling.

Is Tyner perfect? Of course not. But he is open, honest, and real — unlike so many of the other politicians ruling the roost in Dutchess County.