Editor:
I'd like to remind all animal lovers not to feed stray animals.
My orange-and-white indoor cat has been lost for over a week, and I am absolutely certain someone is kindly feeding him - he's not able to hunt and feed himself.
If that well-meaning animal lover had instead invited him inside with kibble and then brought him to the shelter, his microchip would have brought him home.
If you see a cat in your neighbourhood you have never seen before, assume he is lost. If he comes to you for food, bring him to the shelter. Many animals have tattoos or chips that will reunite them with families that are probably desperately searching for them.
Remember, also, that cat collars are designed to "break away" if they catch on anything, for safety so a cat without a collar is not necessarily a cat without a home.
Before adopting a stray, do your due diligence. Take it to the local shelter or vet and check to see if it has a microchip. Check vancouver.craigslist.com for lost pet ads.
Think how you would feel if your cat never came home.
Cara Kalf
