Scott Ard, the Bogalusa City Council member for District D, said after he was approached by people who were concerned about the overpopulation of stray and feral cats, he was determined to find a solution to the problem.

“The complaints ranged from property damage under homes, scratched paint on vehicles, and the stench of urine from heavily populated areas,” he said. “Some residents voiced concern regarding what appears to be cat collections or collectors, and the problems of highly populated sections of the neighborhoods.

“The worst case reported was about a person being bitten by a cat while walking outdoors. The result was two weeks of lost work and expensive medical bills.”

Ard said finding the solution was a problem. But then he called Kay Grantham, of the Magnolia Chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana for assistance, and the two formed a partnership. Now the plan is to trap, spay or neuter, and release about three cats a month.

“She is very knowledgeable, and provided much-needed information,” Ard said. “The Magnolia Humane Chapter is willing to assist with a humane process that includes volunteers trapping the cats, transporting them to the clinic on dedicated days, and monitoring them post-surgery. Magnolia Humane chapter is willing to receive and provide services on a limited number of cats at no cost. They are a non-profit organization and willing to assist to the best of their ability.”

Donations to help with costs of the procedures and associated expenses can be made to the Magnolia Chapter via their website at magnoliahumane.rescuegroups.org.

“The basic function of the system is as follows — cats are trapped in live traps, transported to the clinic on the day of surgery, and monitored after surgery,” Ard continued. “Males take one to two days, and females require a longer monitoring time. Then the cats are returned to the area they were trapped. During the procedure, one ear is clipped to indicate the animal has been spayed or neutered. This provides evidence in the event the cat is caught again later, and it can be released immediately.

“Studies show significant success with the process. Whether the animals are products of cyclic breeding, hoarding, or have been abandoned, this process relieves undue burden to society while naturally controlling the population.”

Now Ard needs volunteers and donors to the cat cause.

“Without housing ability at the local animal shelter, volunteers are desperately needed to assist with transport and monitoring of the cats after surgery,” he said. “All assistance with this program is greatly appreciated. Volunteers are the lifeblood of a project like this.”

Ard said he would host some fundraising events, and that he appreciates in-kind and monetary donations.

“All the money raised will be dedicated to providing a humane solution for the overpopulation issues,” he said.

To volunteer or for additional information, contact Ard by email at scott@asi-services-llc.com or by phone at 985-750-1123.