Animal Control Advisory Board honors Diane Harris for feral-cat advocacy
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Summary
The board read a letter recognizing Diane Harris for years of advocacy and partnership building that expanded TNR and vetting capacity through Feral Cat Rescue Incorporated and a partnership with the county shelter.
Chair Steve Tuttle read a letter dated Nov. 5, 2025, commending Diane Harris for her advocacy and network-building on behalf of feral cats in St. Mary’s County and neighboring jurisdictions.
The letter, signed by Dr. Rebecca Ironmonger and Vice Chair Cesar Fannador, noted that Feral Cat Rescue Incorporated has vetted 934 feral cats this year (including fostering and TNR) and that, since the county shelter opened in 2022, a partnership between the rescue group and the St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption and Rescue Center has enabled additional vetting and TNR work. The letter said the center had already vetted and TNR'd approximately 210 feral cats that otherwise might have been euthanasia candidates.
The letter credited Feral Cat Rescue Incorporated’s funding from grants, fundraisers and resident donations for supporting vetting and TNR activities. Diane Harris, the honoree and a board member, responded, "Thank you very much. I appreciate it." Board members presented a token of appreciation and offered public thanks for her service.
The recognition was ceremonial; no formal policy change or funding decision followed from the presentation.