Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release program a change in direction for local feline wellness organization

Emily Stewart, Echo Correspondent

The Woodstock Kitten Nursery and Rescue, soon to be known as the Oxford County Feline Wellness and Outreach Programs, is launching a trap, neuter, vaccinate and release (TNVR) program aimed at improving outcomes for cats across Oxford County.

The organization will be shutting down its traditional rescue operations to instead focus on addressing the root causes of feline overpopulation. The TNVR program’s first appointments will begin on Feb.10 with 10 spots booked every two weeks.

“Our long-time supporters have expressed excitement about the renewed focus on TNVR and community outreach, recognizing it as a natural next step to create broader, lasting change in Oxford County,” said founder Cathrine Black. “We've seen continued generosity through donations, participation in fundraisers like bingo nights and our 50/50 raffle, and enthusiasm for the new educational programs. Community members, especially those in farming areas and families, appreciate the emphasis on humane population management and resources that prevent issues before they start.”

The TNVR will target free-roaming and stray animals through low-cost vaccination and spay-neuter services, along with colony caretaker training and resources. It will also collaborate with local programs such as Whiskers and Wellness, Paws and Whiskers, and planned therapy visits in seniors’ homes, with an emphasis on prevention over reaction. The program is 95 per cent volunteer-run and funded through donations.

“In Oxford County and surrounding areas, stray and free-roaming cats can lead to uncontrolled breeding, overburdened resources (especially on farms), ecosystem disruptions, and heartbreaking outcomes for kittens and adults,” Black said.

She also said that TNVR prevents new litters and allows cats to comfortably explore familiar environments.

Although the soon-to-be-named Oxford County Feline Wellness and Outreach has changed over the years, starting from running a rescue and nursery in a basement in 2020, Black said the community support remains strong and she is grateful for it.

“Even as we pivot from traditional rescue operations, the heart of our work remains: saving lives and building a more compassionate Oxford County through humane, innovative approaches,” she said.

More updates about the organization will be posted online through the social media channels, still under Woodstock Kitten Nursery and Rescue for now, and signing up for the Scratching Post newsletter. To learn more about the TNVR program online, visit https://woodstockkittennursery.com/tnvr-program.