When we moved to the new building in November of 2006, we noticed a large community of alley cats behind the property.  It's common for people to think that cats can survive on their own in the city much like squirrels and pigeons.  But the truth is that a community of feral cats is subject to the dangers of disease, traffic, predators and weather, and there was no way we could stand idly by.  So our Trap, Alter, Release program was born.

Our Client Service Coordinator David Martinez spearheaded the project by putting together several volunteers including Donna Wood, Dr. Andy, Dr. Aubrey and Nikkie Fawcett from our hospital, and Jen and Danielle from Rocky Mountain Alley Cat Alliance.  Then he contacted our sales representative from IDEXX Laboratories and shared our plan.  Peter Landgren graciously offered to donate FIV and Feline Leukemia tests to help us control the costs of the program.

The program was launched on March 4, 2006.  The volunteers laid traps and brought them in to the hospital.  Our first go-round netted five cats, four of which were negative for FIV and Feline Leukemia.  Our medical volunteers examined, vaccinated, spayed and neutered the cats, and then re-released them to their environment the following day.  Sadly, one of the cats tested positive for FIV and was humanely euthanized. 

Our efforts continue as volunteers and expenses allow.  Our future plans include utilizing the program to allow fourth year students at CSU College of Veterinary Medicine an opportunity for a supervised surgical learning experience.  We'll keep you updated!