Interview! Taryn Breuer, President, Friends of Jeannette Hunt Animal Shelter (NE)
September 24, 2016
Interview! Mike Cahill, Director, The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources’ Division of Animal Health
September 27, 2016
I often ask myself why is it such a challenge for us all to do the right thing for Community Cats. Why do we pass by a situation when we know that we can all help? It really does take a village in order to make sure the cats in our community are taken care of and protected, but it’s not always easy to get others to jump on board to help. If this sounds like something you struggle with, read these Seven Tips to Convince Others to Help Community Cats in their community. They may be just what you’ve been looking for!
1. Spread the word!
If you know about different programs that can help cats, please share that information with as many people as you can! You never know when there is an emergency with a cat or kitten. We all need to be prepared to help people help cats at any time. Carry posters, business cards and share often. They say folks need to see a message seven times before it is remembered, so take that into consideration.
2. Have a positive attitude.
I know it is hard to comprehend, but entering into every situation with a positive attitude can really help make a stressful situation come out better for all. Believe you can make a difference for the cats and you will!
3. Have a sense of humor.
If you are in this business for a good length of time, you are going to run into all kinds of characters. This is on the same line as a positive attitude, but BIGGER. Bringing a few jokes into a conversation can help relieve any stress and tension that may be right under the surface.
4. Believe in the Solution.
I have no problem telling folks that within one year of a DEDICATED and targeted Trap, Neuter and Return program, we will have a minimum of a 50% reduction in the cat population and barely any kittens. Of course, you are committing to your own success and commitment to the neighborhood. If you want “buy in” from the residents, though, you need to commit!
5. Be willing to ask for help.
I have dealt with so many people who have said “they want cats removed”, “they are a nuisance”, etc… but once the program in the area is launched and the very vocal neighbors are seeing the results of the TNR program, they can easily become feeders, trappers and your best communicators to let you know if a cat is injured or if there is a new visitor. So don’t be afraid to ask for help by the neighbors multiple times. They my become your best fans!
6. Make it a team effort.
Bring in collaborative groups, as well as local groups, interested in helping with special events. This is a great pooling and combination of energy.
7. Celebrate the success.
Be sure to share any successes that you have with neighborhood associations, local neighbors, etc. Communicate your story locally so that people know the efforts that have been done for these cats and how to keep the cats healthy.
And just like that, you will find yourself having more success when bringing Community Cat events to your area! Do you have any additional tips that have worked great for you and you would share? Comment below and share!
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