In January 2008 the Fauquier SPCA began an ambitious program in response to the overpopulation of feral cats in Fauquier County.  Once it was decided that trapping and euthanizing these cats was not an option for us, we began to research the alternatives.  The more we became educated on the subject of feral cat colonies, the more it seemed the solution was a simple one (although the execution proved far from simple!). 

Trap, Neuter and Return Programs have been well researched nationally and seem to show many benefits.  Alley Cat Allies (www.alleycatallies.com) have been performing surgeries and teaching TNR program methods for many years and kindly invited our shelter veterinarian, staff members and volunteers to attend clinics.  There, they learned about the specialized methods of high-volume clinics—new surgical techniques that shorten operating time, specially designed "spay boards," certain drugs and dosages that might differ from those used for pet cats, highly specific tasks for each vet assistant in order to ensure optimum efficiency and quality, and the all-important tipping of the left ear, so that trappers, caregivers, and vets alike can tell whether a cat has already been "fixed".  Colonies of cats once sterilized, given rabies vaccinations and parasite prevention, are then returned to their original locations. Their caregivers sign an agreement to continue to feed and provide shelter.  These cats will now keep other colonies from moving in, but as they are now unable to reproduce, the population will reduce naturally over time.  The cats are healthier and happier - as are the caregivers!

As the Fauquier SPCA did not have the money to fund this program we joined forces with the Middleburg Humane Foundation and CauseFurPaws Foundation to combine our resources locating vets, technicians and helpers to volunteer their time and skills.  Although we did have many local veterinarians volunteer their time, it quickly became obvious that the program would need funding if we hoped to continue.  We have had to purchase many new humane traps, supplies, drugs and equipment.  Within 6 weeks of beginning the program, we had spayed or neutered two hundred and thirty-two cats; with many more in line waiting to be scheduled.

If you are a veterinarian or vet technician and would be willing to help us in this worthy cause, please contact Caroline Folker at 540 788-9000 (cfolker@fauquierspca.com)

The caregivers of these feral cats incur large expenses when buying food and other supplies.  If you are able to help with these items, please bring them to the shelter and we will distribute to those most in need.  To find out the supplies need most at this time, click here.