September 10, 2012

Letters to the editor: Evicting healthy feral cats will backfire

In response to the Saco feral cat situation ("Feral cats run wild in Saco, but not for long," Aug. 30), I offer the following: Camp Ellis is a perfect example of a successful trap-neuter-release operation.

click image to enlarge

A cat perches atop a wall by the parking lot of Wormwoods Restaurant at Camp Ellis in Saco. Camp Ellis’ current feral cat population is well cared for by year-round residents and a nonprofit group, but their removal will leave room for less healthy cats to move in, a reader says.

2012 File Photo/John Patriquin

A population of feral cats that numbered in the 60s is now down to 15 or below, thanks to the efforts of year-round residents and a nonprofit organization.

All are healthy, cared for and fed, and their veterinary expenses are covered. All cats tested negative for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus, received rabies vaccines and were spayed or neutered.

When these cats are removed, it creates what is called a "vacuum effect." That is, other cats will move in to the now-vacated area -- cats that would most likely not be vaccinated or spayed/neutered -- and the cycle of breeding would begin anew (and cats are very prolific breeders).

In addition, these cats perform a valuable service to the community -- rodent control.

The neighbor whose lawn is littered with cat feces has a number of proven natural remedies at his disposal to discourage such behavior.

People who are not educated about methods that are proven time and again to be successful should not be so quick to offer opinions on topics about which they know little.

Alley Cat Allies (a national organization, www.alleycat.org) and Friends of Feral Felines (a local organization, www.feralfelines.net) would be happy to share materials and educate anyone who cares to learn more.

Sharon Martel

Dayton

Caron shrugs off injustice to Democratic candidate

In a recent column ("National campaign pollution drifting into Maine," Aug. 30), Alan Caron expressed his disgust at the prospect of Republican operatives in Washington putting out ads urging people to vote for the Democratic candidate, thereby splitting the vote with Angus King and giving the Republican candidate the election.

Where is his outrage at the entire Democratic machine in Maine lying down for King, doing nothing for their own candidate, thereby ensuring a King victory?

King is no more a Democrat than Charlie Summers; among other things, he vetoed a bill (while governor) that would have raised the minimum wage!

Mr. Caron's hypocrisy is breathtaking.

John Nichols

Portland

Name of event embodies courage, faith and humor

My heart and condolences go out to Elizabeth Callan, who knows very acutely the effects of cancer on both the living and those who die as a result of the disease (Voice of the People, "Benefit organizers should choose words more carefully," Aug. 28).

I am a proud, though speed-challenged, participant in the Not Dead Yet ride to benefit the Cancer Community Center. 

I love the title of the event because it so beautifully embodies the characteristics needed to cope with cancer, whether as a patient or a caregiver and supporter: fight, determination, a sense of humor and faith in the future. 

The Cancer Community Center encourages all those attributes, provides support to everyone living with cancer and does it all at no charge.

I can't think of a better investment than 25 miles on my bike to keep the programs coming. 

My husband is now a 16-year survivor of brain cancer, thanks to amazing medical personnel and the grace of God. 

(Continued on page 2)

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