Bylaw change clears way for trap-neuter-release program

The SPCA presented to council on July 4 saying a TNR program is the best way for the city to reduce and manage its growing feral cat population. A 2023 estimate from PetSmart Charities puts the city’s feral cat population at around 4,200.

The group supported at the time a change to the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw to allow for the release of feral cats once they’ve been fixed.

The issue came back to council Monday and was unanimously approved after an amendment to the bylaw requiring the animal welfare groups that will administer the TNR program comply with Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) standards.

Coun. Alison Van Dyke said she and other council members heard and read the passionate concerns from community members.

“I understand the concerns of both sides that were presented to us. I just want to say as many of the councillors have mentioned that ideally we would have unlimited shelter space and loving homes for all animals. But unfortunately, we have limited space that is currently at capacity. Hopefully that will change in the future,” she said at the meeting.

“And there are no perfect solutions so we have to make the best and right solution and decision even if it doesn’t entirely solve the problem and I believe that TNR is an imperfect solution to an ongoing problem.”

Public Services managing director Brian Stauth made clear the city is not operating or funding the program and there is no funding ask from the animal groups.

Coun. Andy McGrogan brought forth the amendment at last night’s meeting to enshrine the ABVMA standards in the bylaw.

Among those standards is ensuring the animal can only be returned under the care of a caregiver to an established cat colony. That responsibility will fall to the animal welfare groups that will administer the program.

“When I saw all of the things that had to be done in order for the trap-neuter-return program to be effective, to me it is humane. It’s humane because the cats are going back to an identified caregiver who’s going to ensure food supply and water and if they’re on holidays or whatever somebody will care for them,” McGrogan said.

Those groups have been in contact with members of Alberta’s division of the Canadian Animal Task Force. That group is able to perform the spaying and neutering procedures for around $50 per cat and has been working with Cypress County this year to reduce its feral cat population.

City Council also passed the Urban Wildlife Management Bylaw. This new blyaw provides the necessary provisions to address the concerns of residents feeding deer within city limits. This bylaw aligns with comparable communities and is compliant with the legislation and regulations under the ministry of Alberta Environment and Protected Areas

by Chris Brown

Bylaw change clears way for trap-neuter-release program

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