As a local citizen concerned about the welfare of our feral cat ('community cat') population, which currently stands at an estimated 2.1 million cats, of which 1.2 million are unowned (as noted in a 2023 report by the Wildlife Center of Virginia), I am writing to express the urgent need for clear legislation and funding approval for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs in Virginia. This process not only ensures the safety and health of the cats, but it is also a cost-effective way to reduce their prevalence in our community. Moreover, TNR initiatives can contribute vitally to preventing the spread of diseases like rabies. It’s time our state and local government played a critical role in solving this issue.

TNR is the most successful and humane way and is lacking clear legality and funding in Virginia. This challenge hampers dedicated animal welfare charities (local 501C3 rescues), who could be doing even more with the express support of our legislation backing these projects. It is therefore crucial for everyone to rally behind this cause and make it known to our elected officials that we care for the wellbeing of all creatures in our communities and are asking them to affirm the legality of TNR initiatives formally and financially.

By signing this petition, you will be sending a message to our state and local government that Virginia residents support humane solutions for dealing with our significant feral cat ('community cat') population. Be a part of this movement — help us affirm the legality of TNR laws and support the creation of new programs to help reduce the feral cat population in Virginia. Please sign and share this petition today.