In an effort to combat the rising population of stray and feral cats, Arlington Animal Services, in collaboration with the nonprofit organization Operation Kindness, will offer free veterinary services to unowned community cats on Thursday, September 19, 2024. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the growing overpopulation of stray cats within the city.

According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), there are an estimated 30 to 40 million community cats in the country, contributing to approximately 80% of kittens born each year. Left unchecked, these populations can expand rapidly. The event will focus on providing spay/neuter services, vaccinations, and other essential treatments to help manage this issue in Arlington.

The first 50 unowned, free-roaming cats brought to the event by Arlington residents will receive a spay/neuter surgery, ear-tipping (a common marker for neutered community cats), and vaccinations for FVRCP and rabies, all free of charge.

Event Details and Participation Guidelines:

• Only the first 50 cats will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
• There is no limit on the number of cats that a single trapper can bring, but each must be in a separate humane trap.
• Traps must be labeled with the trapper’s name and contact information. Cats in crates will not be accepted.
• Each cat must weigh a minimum of two pounds to be eligible for treatment.

Drop-offs will be accepted starting at 7:30 a.m. at the Animal Services Center located at 1000 S.E. Green Oaks Blvd. Cat pickups will begin at 4 p.m.

Michelle Patchett, administrative aide at Arlington Animal Services, expressed optimism about the program’s impact. “We have heard our community’s plea for help and assistance when it comes to the feral cat overpopulation problems in our city,” Patchett said. “We are so excited to work with Operation Kindness in what we hope is the first of many spay/neuter clinics to combat this issue!”

This partnership with Operation Kindness underscores the nonprofit’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of Arlington’s animals. Henry Pena, acting shelter manager, praised the organization, saying, “Operation Kindness has proven to be a true partner and friend to Arlington Animal Services again and again. We are incredibly thankful for their dedication and willingness to help our citizens and the pets who need it most!”

For residents unable to participate in this event, Arlington’s ongoing Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program offers another option to help manage the stray cat population. More information about the TNR program is available on the Arlington Animal Services website.

With the support of community members and organizations like Operation Kindness, Arlington continues to take proactive steps in reducing its feral cat population and promoting the health and safety of its stray animals.