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Ever notice the overabundance of cats in Paulding County and wondered, “What can be done about this issue?” Local non-profit cat rescue, The Kitty Hope Foundation, is tackling this population crisis one feline at a time.

While this problem is not unique to Paulding County, there are estimated to be well over one thousand cats in Antwerp, Cecil, Grover Hill, Haviland, Latty, Melrose, Oakwood, Paulding, Payne, Scott and surrounding areas. Because of the sheer numbers, many of these cats are malnourished, dehydrated, affected with feline viruses, flea-ridden, and in serious need of love and care.

Registered veterinary technician and Foundation director, Jenna Benzing, along with a small team of dedicated volunteers, venture into neighborhoods to trap stray and feral community cats. These cats are then transported to facilities where, in addition to being fixed, they receive health care and vaccinations. The cats are then returned to their colony. To visually identify which cats have been spayed or neutered, their left ear tip is clipped.

Since January, The Kitty Hope Foundation has facilitated the spaying and neutering of more than 200 community cats in Paulding County, with over 40 from Haviland alone.

If you’re interested in becoming a cat owner, the Kitty Hope Foundation has a foster/adoption program too.

This issue will not be solved quickly, nor without long-term management and community involvement. Imagine the impact that could be made if other Paulding County municipalities follow Haviland’s leadership and donate to support The Kitty Hope Foundation’s mission.

Anyone wishing to volunteer, donate, adopt, or foster is encouraged to email thekittyhopefoundation@gmail.com.