Education

While FCCO actively reduces feral cat population through our spay/neuter clinics, surgery alone will not eliminate the tragedy of cat overpopulation. Education is key and is part of the mission of FCCO.

We have several avenues for providing education and community outreach including newspaper and magazine stories both nationally and locally, our web page, our booth at local street fairs, our message on the mobile hospital, brochures, newsletter and visiting local schools.

We have visited schools, introducing the students to the plight of feral cats along with impressing upon them the importance of spaying and neutering, and the compassion to provide good care for a cat's entire life. We have reached students as young as second graders on up to juniors in high school. Reaching young minds today is key to reducing the pet overpopulation problem in the future.

We also seek opportunities for visibility within the community at street fairs and events. Through these fairs we are able to educate a wide range of people and frequently find new volunteers who often feel helpless about the plight of feral and stray cats and become a part of our growing network.

Some of the best opportunities come from those who don't understand the reality of a feral cat's daily life and the overwhelming number of abandonment issues that exist. One such conversation in a day has the potential to save at least one litter of kittens. Several of these dialogues can surely have an impact over time.

When we talk to people in their own neighborhoods they relate the problem to their own community and see the potential for change. Often times they walk away feeling empowered to make a difference when they realize that there are resources available to help them.

We are looking to expand our education program. If you are interested in helping with our education efforts, we want to hear from you. Please call us or email us for further information.