Edmonton, Alberta (September 21, 2024) - The ABVTA would like to take the opportunity to address the comments and recent apology, made by the Mayor of Fort Saskatchewan regarding cruel and concerning practices for managing feral cats.
Such remarks undermine the importance of compassionate approaches to animal welfare and alienate those who advocate for humane treatment of all animals. Our association and members are deeply committed to the humane treatment of all animals, including feral and community cats, and believe that every animal deserves compassion and respect, regardless of its circumstances.
It is essential to recognize that feral cats are often the result of human actions, and as such, we have a collective responsibility to address their needs in a humane and effective manner. The ABVTA believes in humane solutions that prioritize the well-being of animals and the communities they inhabit. This includes promoting responsible pet ownership, implementing effective trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, and increasing public awareness.
There are communities in Alberta who have successfully implemented TNR programs such as Strathmore’s The Happy Cat Sanctuary Society of Alberta, Edmonton-based society, Little Cats Lost Society, the Canadian Animal Task Force, and the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, who provides TNR programs in rural Alberta.
The ABVTA encourages municipal leaders to foster a dialogue that advocates for the well-being and humane treatment of all animals. A compassionate approach reflects our association’s values and promotes a healthy and safe environment for all Alberta residents and animals.
If you believe an animal may be in distress in Alberta, call the RCMP or the Alberta SPCA’s Animal Protection Line at 1-800-455-9003, or your local authority.
This statement was written by Madison Furness, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Alberta Veterinary Technologist Association.