Florida’s shelters are on the verge of big changes to protect community cats and shelter animals.

Florida’s House Local, Federal & Veterans Affairs Subcommittee is considering a bill, HB 515, that would ban shelters from killing cats who are candidates for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). Community cats are usually not adoptable, so shelters are a death sentence for them. This bill would support the great TNR programs that get cats out of shelters and back to their outdoor homes.

In fact, one of the leading TNR programs in the country, First Coast No More Homeless Pets’ Feral Freedom Program, is in Jacksonville!

The bill would improve the lives of shelter animals by requiring shelters to check animals for identification immediately so they can be reunited with their owners as quickly as possible. It also requires shelters to focus on enrichment activities that provide mental and physical stimulation for animals and improve their well-being. It also encourages shelters to transfer animals to foster homes where they can be the most comfortable, since even the nicest shelters can be stressful for animals

This bill would change Florida’s shelters for the better and ensure that animals receive the care and attention they deserve.  

If you live in Florida, you can take action today to help get this bill passed.