Volunteers rescue feral cats

She says the group spends a lot on vet care and flea treatment. “We don’t have endless funds to pay for everything,” Gareau said. “So help from the community would make a big difference as we work toward our goals, which will take time.”

The rescue work is hard and dirty. Gareau says most cats hide because they are scared and feral. Volunteers lure them with treats and fresh fish, set humane traps and check them every 10 to 15 minutes. They crawl under outbuildings and sheds wearing masks and coveralls, she says, and the smell is often bad because the cats live there.

After volunteers catch the cats, they run into another problem. Gareau says local rescues and other groups are already full of stray cats and dogs.

“We try to foster as many as we can, but eventually our homes are full,” Gareau said. “It’s hard to rescue a cat when there’s nowhere for them to go.”

Angela McLaren, executive director of the Prince George Humane Society, says feral cat colonies are one of the biggest challenges for animal welfare groups. She explains that feral cats usually have never been around people, so it’s hard to find them homes. Many end up needing barn homes.

McLaren says the society can move animals out of the city, hold adoption events, and expand its foster program. But she says these efforts can’t keep up. She believes spay and neuter programs are the only real solution.

“Realistically, we can’t house all the animals that need help,” McLaren said. “I don’t think everyone realizes how big this problem is.”

She says the society’s shelter can only hold so many animals, and staff have to think about animal welfare and resources. McLaren adds that public frustration doesn’t help the staff, who work hard every day. She says people can help by joining the society’s foster network, raising money or getting involved with other rescue organizations. “The biggest way to help solve the problem is getting involved with rescue organizations,” she said. “Every little bit helps.”

Gareau urges pet owners to consider the costs before getting a cat. She says owners should spay or neuter their pets, even if they stay indoors, so they can’t breed with other cats. “Everybody be responsible for your pets,” she said.

More information about “Sandra’s Stray Squad” is available on Facebook.

by Dave Branco

Volunteers rescue feral cats

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