A local society dedicated to providing rescue and adoption of feral and orphaned cats said kitten season has exploded early this year.
“We are overrun already,” said December van den Berg, president of AlleyCATS Alliance. “It seems the season has started earlier because we have had a ton of calls and it is only just getting started.”
They have four batches of adoptable kittens that were rescued in Penticton and Oliver. To help curb the feral cat population, AlleyCATS provides rescue, rehabilitation, medical care and adoption.
AlleyCATS Alliance is hosting their second ever assisted spay and neuter clinic on May 23 followed by a third on May 27. Cat owners who are unable to afford the cost of spaying or neutering their pet are invited to fill out an application. These can be picked up at Bosleys Pet Foods in Penticton or on the AlleyCats Alliance website. This program is funded in part by the generosity of local veterinarians and in part by money raised through various fundraisers and private donations.
A contribution of $25, payable by cash only in advance, will be required from successful candidates. The deadline for submissions has been extended and proof of income is required. Space is very limited and candidates will be selected by a panel based on their eligibility.
“We had such success with our inaugural program last year and had such a great time doing it, it really was a no-brainer when it came to whether or not we were going to do it again this year,” said van den Berg. “Once we got the go-ahead from local veterinarians, we decided to run with it. Substantial funds will still be required to pay the balance, so donations are greatly appreciated.”
AlleyCATS is also in need of volunteers and financial contributions to help keep up with the demand of medical services for the cats and kittens they rescue.
“We can only do so much financially and with our time because we don’t have an army of people. We really need foster homes right now and people to help with our neuter and release program,” said van den Berg.
For more information on how you can volunteer, become a foster family or contribute financially visit www.alleycatsalliance.org.