(A) A trap-neuter-return program has been developed by Kenton County animal services to address the issues presented by feral and other community cats, recognizing that there are caretakers of community cats.
(B) The trap-neuter-return program permits Kenton County animal services to engage in the trapping of community cats for the purpose of sterilization, vaccination, ear-tipping for easy identification and providing of other necessary medical care for community cats.
(C) A caretaker providing for a community cat may offer certain necessities on a regular/ongoing basis, including, but not limited to, proper nutrition of food and water, and medical care. If medical care is unavailable or too expensive, a caregiver should contact Kenton County animal services for assistance to prevent harm to a community cat.
(1) For the purposes of this section, a caretaker shall follow all applicable laws, ordinances, rules and regulations while carrying out any caretaking actions, included, but not limited to, those laws regarding trespass, littering and nuisances. Failure to follow all applicable laws, ordinances, rules and regulations may lead to a caretaker’s removal from participation in the trap-neuter-return program.
(2) A caretaker shall not enter private property, including abandoned or vacant property that is being maintained by a government organization pursuant to applicable nuisance laws and regulations, without prior written approval from the legal owner or occupant of such property.
(3) A caretaker shall not utilize government owned or public property in conjunction with the trap- neuter-return program without obtaining a proper permit or other written consent or permission.
(D) If the requirements of division (C) above are met, the caretaker is exempt from licensing and other provisions of this chapter that apply to owned cats.
(E) Anyone providing necessities to community cats shall adhere to the management standards listed below to reduce reproduction and prevent attraction of wildlife, vermin or insects. Failure to adhere to standards shall be deemed a public nuisance.
(1) Food must be presented in a container and not thrown on the ground.
(2) Uneaten food must be picked up after one hour.
(3) Trash must be removed and the area kept clean.
(4) Cats must be encouraged to stay away from people such as by feeding away from streets and public sidewalks.
(5) Shelter, if provided, must be insulated, blended with the surroundings, and free of standing water and moisture.
(6) Rabies vaccinations and spay/neuter services must be provided by the caretaker or by contacting Kenton County animal services to prevent reproduction.
(Ord. O-26-20, passed 12-1-2020) Penalty, see § 90.99