Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and Catch-Neuter-Return have been shown to be a very effective way to control dog and cat populations.
All over the world there are colonies of free-living (stray or feral) cats and dogs, breeding to the limits of available food and shelter. In tourist areas the numbers of animals grow faster, due to the additional supplies of food provided by well-meaning visitors. When the tourists go home the animals become vulnerable to starvation, disease, suffering and death.
Local authorities and individuals may try to reduce the numbers by culling or poisoning. This approach is not only inhumane but also only has a short term effect as new strays will soon move in to fill the void.
TNR is the most effective and financially sustainable method to humanely control stray and feral dog and cat populations. As well as controlling the population by preventing reproduction, TNR also improves the lives of individuals. Neutered animals improve in health, condition and life expectancy due to reduced fighting and breeding.
Cats can be trapped and dogs caught humanely and then taken to a Veterinarian to be checked over, neutered and vaccinated. The animals are identified so that they will not be trapped and subjected to surgery a second time.
Young animals and tame adults can be adopted into good homes. Healthy adults, too wild to be adopted, can be returned to their familiar habitat under the longterm care of volunteers. The emphasis is on sustainable programmes.