Headed by
Portland Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Sheri
Speede (pictured here), the Coalition is a group of veterinarians
and concerned citizens who are dedicated to helping alleviate the
suffering of feral cats and to humanely reducing their numbers.
Feral cat populations consist of cats who have been born in the
streets and of "throw away" domestic cats turned wild.
They are frightened of people and are poorly adapted to the world
in which they have been forced to live. They experience short
lives (average 2-3 years) which often end violently or in drawn
out illnesses.
The Coalition offers humane trapping and free spaying and neutering on a monthly basis. They also provide testing for feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus, basic medical treatment and vaccinations for rabies and distemper. The treated cats are then released into the areas where they are being fed by caretakers. Whenever possible, kittens/cats will be rehabilitated for placement in responsible homes.
Modeled after similar sucessful programs in Britain and the US, the Coalition has the necessary energy and volunteer veterinary staff to make a difference. What the Coalition needs now is support from the community.
There are start-up costs for surgical supplies and for remodeling the Coalition's donated space as well as the ongoing expenses of operating the monthly clinics. If you would like to give financial aid to the Coalition, or would like more information about Coalition activities, please write:
Feral Cat Coalition of Portland
P.O. Box 82734
Portland, Oregon 97282
Phone: 503-817-7796