Animal Shelter partners with Best Friends Society for cat lifesaving initiative

Conway City Council is set to enhance its animal welfare efforts with a new partnership aimed at saving more feline lives. During the April 10 meeting, officials announced plans to enter into an agreement with the Best Friends Animal Society, a nonprofit organization recognized for its impactful work in animal rescue.

The initiative, dubbed the Conway Cat Lifesaving Sustainability Grant, will provide $20,000 to bolster the city’s no-kill shelter status. Under the leadership of David Mitchell, the shelter has achieved an impressive 96.9 percent live outcome rate this year, with only two cats euthanized due to severe injuries. This marks a significant improvement in the city’s approach to animal care, particularly for cats, which have historically faced neglect in many areas.

The grant will support the implementation of a program known as TNVR—trap, neuter, vaccinate, and return. This strategy aims to manage local cat populations, particularly in areas with large colonies, such as nearby trailer parks where estimates suggest up to 2,300 cats reside. By spaying and neutering these cats, the city hopes to reduce the number of unwanted litters and the associated noise complaints from mating and fighting.

Mitchell emphasized the importance of this program, stating that it not only improves the health of the cats but also benefits the community by controlling the population over time. With support from local businesses like Gibson's Cat Cafe and PetSmart, the city is optimistic about increasing adoption rates and enhancing the overall welfare of its feline residents.

As Conway moves forward with this initiative, the city aims to set a precedent for responsible animal care and community engagement, ensuring a brighter future for its four-legged inhabitants.