The CATalyst Council began just over a year ago to elevate the status of cats. While cats are America's number one companion pet - they do get ripped...They don't see the veterinarian nearly as often as dogs, they are more often dumped at shelters and less often adopted. What's up with all that?
The CATalyst Council formed to set it all straight...I happen to be a founding member, and on their Board of Directors. Organizations involved include the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Humane Association, Winn Feline Foundation, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, American Animal Hospital Association, Society of Shelter Animal Welfare Administrators, and many more.
At the most recent CATalyst Council meeting (November 12, 13) in Austin, TX here's what happened:
- Dr. Roy Smith spoke about the importance of feral (or as he calls them community cats). The Council agrees.
- I announce that in 2010 I will begin a new column for Cat Fancy magazine, called the CATalyst.
- CATalyst in conjunction with the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Association of Feline Practitioners have completed Life Stage Wellness Guidelines for cats, for veterinary professionals. This information will be available to veterinary professionals in early 2010.
- I am heading up a group to author similar Guidelines for the public to read, expected to be released sometime in 2011.
- Dr. Diane Eigner is the new CATalyst Council Chair; Dan Kramer steps down and is now the Immediate Past Chair.
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Tags: American Animal Hospital Association, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, American Humane Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, Austin TX, CATalyst Council, cats, Dan Kramer, dogs, Dr. Diane Eigner, Dr. Jane Brunt, Dr. Roy Smith, Society of Shelter Animal Welfare Administrators, Steve Dale archives, veterinarian, veterinarians. cat welfare, Winn Feline Foundation
Hey Steve. YOU ARE MY HERO!!!
I guess then, I have many heroes.