(A) To determine the preferred approach for managing the cat population by endorsing the trap, neuter and return program consisting of trapping, sterilizing, vaccinating for rabies, ear tipping, and returning cats to their original location is an effective and humane way to manage the population of cats within Henderson; and
(B) Permitted acts. The following actions shall be permitted in Henderson as part of trap-neuter-return:
(1) Trapping, for the sole purpose of sterilizing, vaccinating for rabies, and ear tipping community cats, in compliance with any applicable federal or state law, and under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, where applicable.
(2) An ear tipped cat received by local shelters will be returned to the location where trapped unless veterinary care is required. A trapped ear tipped cat will be released on site unless veterinary care is required.
(3) Community cat caregivers are empowered to reclaim impounded community cats without proof of ownership solely for the purpose of carrying out trap-neuter-return and/or returning ear tipped community cats to their original locations.
(4) A person who returns a community cat to its original location while conducting trap-neuter-return is not deemed to have abandoned the cat.
(5) Trap-neuter-return shall be the preferred disposition for impounded community cats. Animal control and the local shelter are authorized and encouraged to conduct trap-neuter-return or to direct impounded community cats to a trap-neuter-return program.
(Ord. 456, passed 8-13-2024)