Winter 2006
Does Connecticut Care for Cats?

Based on the turnout at the November 12th Connecticut Cares for Cats Conference, the answer is a resounding yes!  Over 200 animal welfare professionals gathered to hear some of the nation’s leading experts discuss humane solutions for reducing cat  overpopulation in our state.

The impressive roster of speakers included Becky Robinson, National Director, Alley Cat Allies; Ed Boks, Executive Director, NYC Animal Care & Control; Holly Sizemore, Feral Fix Program Director, Best Friends Animal Society and NMHP Utah; Esther Mechler, Director, SPAY/USA; Bryan Kortis, Executive Director, Neighborhood Cats; Debora M. Bresch, Esq., Legislative Liaison, ASPCA; Stacy LeBaron, President, Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society; and Peter Marsh, Esq., Founder of Solutions to Overpopulation of Pets.

Attendees represented over 70 shelters and rescue organizations, as well as veterinarians, animal control professionals, individual rescuers and concerned citizens.  "We were delighted to have so many representatives from the animal welfare community come together for the common goal of helping cats.  Sponsored by the Petco Foundation, this was Connecticut’s first-ever statewide conference and the turnout proved that we all see the importance of working together to help end cat overpopulation." (Susan Linker, President, Animal Welfare Federation of Connecticut)

Here’s what some of our attendees had to say: "This was a very informative seminar.  I was impressed with the level of  professionalism of not only the speakers but also the entire presentation of the meeting.  It was an opportunity for our Animal Welfare Committee to meet people who will be great contacts for us in the future.  We expect to maintain our communication lines with AWFCT and work toward common goals." (Dr. Larry Nieman, President-Elect of the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association)

“This was a wonderful conference! I hope to see more like it.” (Greg Simpson, Meriden Humane Society, Inc.)

“It was great to get the chance to meet with other groups so we can band together and accomplish what we can’t do alone.” (Virginia Van Norden, Forgotten Felines, Inc.)

For more information about the Connecticut Cares for Cats Conference, please contact us at info@awfct.org.