Voucher for Feral Felines

By Joyce St. Antoine

Windsorites will be able to apply to have feral felines spayed and neutered at no charge starting March 7. Since 2012, the free voucher program has been offered to low income families who may apply by calling the City of Windsor. The procedure focuses on cats to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Feral cats may have diseases or lack the care of an owner. Windsorites will be offered a $75 voucher for the procedure.

“The vouchers are available for 90 days. They will be redeemable at any veterinary clinic and the maximum is two for each household. Anyone can call for an extension if they will use the voucher, but if not, they can come back and return it,” said Katherine Donaldson, executive administrative assistant for the City of Windsor.

“The program runs depending on the government’s funding for it. Last year we were given $30,000 and now it’s decreased to $20,000,” said Donaldson. “There are areas of Windsor where cats roam such as Riverside, Walkerville and Central. My recommendation is when you catch a stray, apply for the voucher, and bring them to the Humane Society’s spay and neuter clinic.”

The City of Windsor receives several phone calls the day of the voucher’s release from applicants wishing to receive a voucher, and usually all are handed out by the end of the day.

“Animals are an important aspect of our city, as much as it’s a shame to see strays around, this is something I recommend doing for the sake of the feline,” said Melanie Coulter, executive director of Windsor’s Humane Society.

“The City of Windsor has grown domestically with a large amount of cats living the streets with several health problems, whether that be lack of food or the lack of care. So, with this voucher, it’s to make sure the cat can continue on living safely.”

Calling 311, the City of Windsor’s call center, is available to provide help and answers to any questions regarding the available opportunity. Applicants must be over 18 to receive a voucher.