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Big Bend Pets says TNR program sharply reduced feral cat shelter intakes in Alpine
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Summary
Chia Wilcox of Big Bend Pets reported that in 2025 the group's trap-neuter-return (TNR) and return-to-field (RTF) work processed 112 feral cats—99 within Alpine city limits—resulting in far fewer shelter intakes and estimated municipal savings between $23,000 and $103,000; the board heard the report and asked questions.
Chia Wilcox, representing Big Bend Pets, told the Alpine advisory board that the nonprofit processed 112 feral cats in 2025, 99 of them within Alpine city limits, and sterilized 86 through trap-neuter-return (TNR). Wilcox said 16 cats were placed in a return-to-field (RTF) program run in partnership with the Alpine shelter.
"We have reduced shelter overcrowding, limited the long term expenditures for the city and the community, and achieved long term sustainable population control," Wilcox said, summarizing the group's findings and urging continued city support for the program.
Wilcox walked through year-over-year shelter intake figures the group tracks: 188 feral cats came to the shelter in 2019, which she said fell to 53 in 2023 and to 20 in 2024; she attributed the decline to TNR and RTF work. The presenter also cited an estimated direct municipal savings range of $23,000 to $103,000 for 2025 tied to reduced shelter intakes and related costs.
Board members and community volunteers who worked with Big Bend Pets described local colony experiences and the importance of volunteer follow-up and education. Jimmy Case, who said he serves as the presiding officer of the group's board, recounted working with a long-running colony and praised volunteers for reducing stress on caretakers and animals.
Wilcox described program operations: cats are microchipped, ear-tipped and vaccinated for rabies; friendly animals enter shelter intake and possible adoption pathways, while feral cats are sterilized and returned to their colonies. She said the nonprofit covers transportation and recovery care and does not require trappers to pay, though donations are accepted.
The advisory board accepted the presentation and had no formal objection; members thanked the presenters and asked clarifying questions about program costs and community outreach.
The board moved on to other agenda items; no formal city funding decision was made at the meeting.
