Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) Program for Feral Cats
The Village of Dunnottar operates a Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) Program to humanely manage and reduce the feral cat population within the community.
This program helps prevent the birth of unwanted kittens while improving the health of feral cats and reducing nuisance behaviours such as fighting, roaming, and spraying.
What is Trap-Neuter-Release?
Trap-Neuter-Release is a humane and effective method of managing feral cats.
Through this program:
- Feral cats are humanely trapped
- Cats are spayed or neutered by Selkirk Veterinary Services
- Cats are released, after recovery, to an approved location
This approach helps stabilize feral cat populations and improves community wellbeing.
Program Authorization
To participate in the TNR Program
- Volunteers must register with the Village of Dunnottar office (registration is open only to residents of the Village of Dunnottar)
- Authorization from the Village of Dunnottar is required before any cat is taken to Selkirk Veterinary Services
- The Village of Dunnottar will only process payments for cats that arrive with an official authorization form
- Authorization forms are available from the Village office during regular business hours
- A limited number of cats are approved each year. Once the yearly limit is reached, no additional cats will be authorized until the next program year
Veterinary Appointments
- All veterinary visits must be scheduled in advance; walk-ins will not be accepted
- The Village has an agreement with Selkirk Veterinary Services to provide spay and neuter services for authorized feral cats
Important Information About Euthanasia
- Cats will not be accepted for euthanasia at the request of an individual
- Any decision to euthanize a cat will be made only by the veterinarian, based on medical necessity and professional judgment
Release Locations After Recovery
After the cat has fully recovered from surgery, residents may choose one of the following approved release locations:
Option 1: Original Trapping Location
- Cats may be released at the same location where they were originally tapped
- This option helps cats return to a familiar environment and prevents new cats from moving it
Option 2: Village of Dunnottar Landfill Site
- Cats may be released at the Village of Dunnottar Landfill Site.
- The landfill includes a shelter designed for feral cats
- An onsite attendant regularly feeds the cats and ensures water is available
Both options support the ongoing health and safety of feral cats participating in the TNR Program.
Resident Responsibilities
Residents who choose to participate in the TNR Program are responsible for:
- Humanely trapping feral cats
- Transporting cats to and from the veterinary clinic
- Covering their own time and travel costs
- Providing a warm, dry place for cats to recover
Please note:
- The Village does not supply traps
- Residents will not be compensated for trapping or transportation
Program Dates
- The program operates from May 1 to October 15 each year
- Release dates may change if weather or environmental conditions are not suitable
- Any date changes will be determined by the veterinarian
- At their discretion, the veterinarian may opt to perform the procedure outside of the above-mentioned dates
Why This Program Is Important
The TNR Program helps the community by:
- Reducing the number of feral cats overtime
- Improving cat health and safety
- Decreasing noise, fighting, and spraying
- Providing a humane, responsible solution to feral cat management
Contact Information
For more information or to obtain a registration or authorization form, please contact the Village of Dunnottar office during regular business hours either via email: info@dunnottar.ca or by telephone: 204-389-4962.