Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is an effective method of controlling the feral cat population. TNR allows caretakers to trap feral cats and have them spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and treated for parasites. The cats are returned to their colony after they heal from surgery, where caretakers continue to feed and provide medical care to the cats.

The purpose of this petition:

I started this petition in honor of Sparkles, a beautiful tortie who was living in an organized feral cat colony near Spring Creek Park in Tomball. Although she was spayed and had a clipped-ear to prove it, she was trapped and euthanized by HCPHES VPH in July 2013.

Unfortunately, Harris County's leash law makes it difficult for citizens to TNR feral cats. The law says all cats and dogs must be kept under restraint. Feral cats, even those that are part of organized colonies, are often trapped and euthanized due to the leash law. This needs to stop!

BARC created a program that allows caretakers to register their colonies with the City of Houston. The cats have a notched ear to indicate that they have been spayed/neutered and live in an organized colony. Harris County should create a similar program instead of carelessly euthanizing our ferals. These cats serve a purpose to our community.  Let them live!