October 16, 2009
Arizona Humane Society offers tips to worried feline owners
"One of the best ways to protect cats is to keep them indoors," said Stacie DaBolt, field operations manager for the Arizona Humane Society. "Left to wander outside, a cat runs the risk of being hit by a car, getting a disease from another animal or possibly encountering a person with cruel intentions."
The nonprofit organization also stresses the importance of spaying or neutering cats. Doing so reduces a pet's urge to breed, which makes them more likely to escape outside to search for a mate. A collar and ID tag or a microchip with current contact information can help ensure a safe return home if your cat does find her way outdoors.
In the case of the cats found in the canal, none of them had any identification or microchips and none had been spayed or neutered. DaBolt says it is most likely that these felines were strays and just had the bad luck of being close to someone who could be so cruel.
While it may be too late to save the cats in the canal, AHS reminds the community that it's not too late to help the hundreds of other cats, dogs and critters already in its care. Adopt a cat or kitten, with reduced adoption fees of $10 and $15 respectively. Have your pet spayed or neutered at one of the organization’s low-cost public clinics.
"Our mission is to improve the lives of animals," said Guy Collision, executive director for the Arizona Humane Society. "We need our community's help to accomplish this lofty task. For those who want to do so something in response to this week's tragic findings, give a one time or monthly donation to help support the ongoing care of homeless animals and to ensure our programs that combat animal abuse and cruelty continue."
The canal cats case remains an open, ongoing high priority investigation for the Arizona Humane Society, considering the circumstances of the case. Any and all information regarding potential leads is welcome and can be reported anonymously by calling the Arizona Humane Society at 602.997.7586 ext. 2073 or Silent Witness at 480.WITNESS (480.948.6377).
About Arizona Humane Society
Founded in 1957, the Arizona Humane Society is the state’s largest nonprofit animal welfare and protection agency. The mission of AHS is to improve the lives of animals, alleviate their suffering, and elevate their status in society.
Contacts
Kimberly Searles, Communication Manager
Kelsea Vescova, Director of Marketing and Development
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