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National Feral Cat Day

From Stacy Mantle, for About.com

Booger stays in his cage for a moment and glances up at you. You almost feel like he is saying thank you, although you're somewhat certain he will never forget the horrors of the day. You repress an urge to reach out and pet the thick hair, knowing that to do so would most certainly result in a trip to the hospital for you. Finally, without so much as a glance back, he lunges from the trap and disappears behind a nearby hedge. You sigh and wave goodbye, because it's all you are allowed to do. Nevertheless - a warm glow spreads over you, because you know that today was one of your most successful ones.

To learn how you can be of assistance during National Feral Cat Day, or better yet, begin efforts in your area to start a TNR (Trap/Neuter/Release) program in your area, visit Alley Cat Allies for detailed information. And if you can't participate, please try to make a donation; any funds are very much appreciated in continuing this national effort.

About the Author

Stacy Mantle is a freelance writer who currently resides in the southwestern deserts of Arizona with a number of cats, a coyote/wolf hybrid, and a very understanding husband. Her writing has appeared in publications such as The Arabian Horse Times, Today's AZ Woman, and Pets Illustrated. Many of her stories and articles have been translated into several languages, and now reach an international audience. Quickly becoming known as "the Erma Bombeck of animals," her writing has skyrocketed to new heights as she records the stories of those she loves, inspiring the reader to learn why we have all come to love the animals we share our lives with. She is the author of Conquering the Food Chain: Living Amongst Animals (Without Becoming One), which is available in Barnes & Noble bookstores nationwide, as well as online at www.bn.com or www.amazon.com.

Her previous Guest Article, "Marrying into the Food Chain," is listed in the sidebar.

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