Pals for Paws seeks to help community control feral cat population

tipped before being returned to their homes. Ear-tipping is a process in which approximately a quarter inch of the cat’s left ear is removed in a straight line while the cat is under anesthesia. This is the universal sign of a neutered feral cat.

The TNR process benefits the community as the reproduction rate begins to stabilize and behaviors associated with mating, like yowling, fighting or spraying, stop after spaying or neutering.

These animals are members of the domestic cat species and are protected under state anticruelty laws.

Jani Aylsworth, of Adairsville Animal Hospital, is a member of the Pals for Paws board. She said that, on average, one cat could produce 12 to 15 kittens each year of their 15-year life span; therefore, one cat can produce more than 200 kittens in its life.

“In any given neighborhood there are 10 to 20 cats running around. If you just remove them from the neighborhood, others will come and take over the area,” said Aylsworth. “If you bring them in and get them spayed or neutered and vaccinated, they can go back to the same area, but they are not pro- ducing more kittens.”

Aylsworth also said that those who would like to have a feral cat altered and vaccinated are encouraged to buy certificates for discounted surgeries and vaccines at local animal shelters. The office of Adairsville Animal Hospital, located at 7446 Highway 140 Northwest, also offers a coupon that discounts the surgery and various vaccines for stray animals.

The Pals for Paws organization works to create no kill shelters and assists with adoptions, vaccinations and rescues. The organization, formed by a local group of volunteers, is currently working with the City of Calhoun Animal Control, providing assistance with vaccinations, altering and adoption of the animals it houses. They also help fund the adoption of animals taken into custody.

Pals for Paws is searching for a location in which it can open a volunteer operated thrift shop that will funds the organization’s efforts.

If you would like to donate or volunteer with CAC Pals for Paws, Inc., contact Lynne Reese at 706- 676- 1656 orlhreese@ aol. com.