Inspiring Greater Change for Cats in Puerto Rico
Alley Cat Allies’ fight—and victory—to protect the community cats of the Paseo del Morro from the U.S. National Park Service, along with our global call for humane action, inspired a new push for lifesaving programs and policies in Puerto Rico!
We reached out to Puerto Rico legislators to congratulate them on the recent chamber passage of H.B./P.C. 1192, a bill that recognizes and supports Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) as a key part of a larger plan to promote coexistence in communities. We’re offering our expertise, guidance, and support to ensure strong protections for community cats and the people who care for them.
The voices and generosity of our supporters made the difference every step of the way! Read our letter of support.
Alley Cat Allies Supports Animal Cruelty Prosecution of a Florida Man Who Poisoned Cats
Alley Cat Allies supports the prosecution of Chaim Gubitz, who was arrested and charged with animal cruelty for fatally poisoning two cats in Biscayne Park, Florida.
We reached out to the prosecutor in his case to urge the maximum sentence and offer assistance from our team of animal cruelty experts.
Gubitz was allegedly caught on surveillance camera leaving poisoned trays of food along the fence, where his neighbor’s two pet cats could access them. The cats, Little and Stella, did not survive.
Poisoning is an especially disturbing cause of death that causes its victims extreme suffering. To leave out poison for any animal IS cruelty.
Learn how to take action if you suspect a cat has been poisoned and recognize the symptoms of poisoning at alleycat.org/Poison.
Update: Standing Against a Feeding Ban in Ripon, California
In August, the Ripon City Council introduced a bill, Ordinance 939, that would ban the feeding of cats on public property. Alley Cat Allies reached out to councilmembers, voicing our strong opposition and explaining why feeding bans are always cruel and ineffective.
A councilmember requested additional guidance to oppose the feeding ban and promote TNR. We immediately provided our resources and expertise to drive a positive change in direction.
We weren’t alone: Ripon residents attended the city council meeting on September 8 to defend community cats and the lifesaving power of TNR. Together, we sent a powerful message: TNR works, and caregivers deserve support, not penalties, for their important work.
Ordinance 939 was tabled, but we continue to advocate to remove harmful measures. The city is also considering a registration requirement that would have a chilling effect on TNR participation.
The only way forward is community collaboration with the organizations and advocates caring for cats every day. Our team is in touch with key decision-makers, and we’re fighting to protect the community cats of Ripon.
Advocating for an Amended TNR Law in Michigan
This Summer, Michigan Representative Jason Morgan introduced a bill, HB 6317, which would promote Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs across the state. Alley Cat Allies is glad for the commitment to positive change for community cats in Michigan. However, we want any and all legislation to be as beneficial and effective as possible.
Our team noted several opportunities for amendments to HB 6317 to remove potential barriers to TNR and clarify certain provisions. We reached out to the representative with our expert guidance and suggestions.
We will keep a close eye on this bill when it moves forward. Our goal is to ensure that this legislation fully and appropriately supports community cats, caregivers, and TNR.
Know Your Rights to Protect Yourself and Community Cats
As a U.S. citizen and a community cat caregiver, you have rights under the law. Understanding them is essential to protecting yourself and the cats in your care.
Check out our top tips below, and learn more at alleycat.org/KnowYourRights. These resources provide you with information on your rights and should not be construed as legal advice.