Editor:
Recently, the World Wildlife Fund reported our planet has lost 60 per cent of its wildlife since 1970, and the trend is worsening. Sixty-nine per cent of some bird populations have disappeared. This is extremely depressing news, so it was with gratitude I heard the radio announcement explaining the District of Sechelt’s request that cat owners keep their cats indoors. According to one credible study, “free-roaming cats are responsible for the deaths of an estimated average of 2.4 billion birds and 12.3 billion mammals (squirrels, mice, voles, etc.) every year.” As a cat lover myself I understand the feeling that it is unnatural, or even cruel, to keep cats indoors. But not so long ago many people felt the same way about spaying and neutering our pets. Hopefully the day will come when it will be the norm for all cats to spend long, healthy, happy lives indoors, safe from predators and disease.
And leashes aren’t just for dogs. Many cats are enjoying hikes through the forest in a harness and on leash, strengthening the bond with their owners.
Amy Brooks, Gibsons
