Posted: August 31, 2008 2:00 a.m. EDT
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| An organic farmer will provide sanctuary for a feral cat colony on his 20-acre farm in Utah. |
A colony of feral cats living near a repair garage in Salt Lake City recently moved to a new home in rural Deersprings, thanks to the efforts of Best Friends Animal Society and No More Homeless Pets Utah (NMHPU). The colony, cared for by an elderly couple until a few months ago, came into jeopardy when the garage changed ownership.
The 15 cats in the colony had received care, including spay and neuter surgery, from the couple until they became unable to visit the cats. Another caregiver became involved through NMHPU, but then the garage changed ownership, and the cats’ enclosure was torn down.
Best Friends Feral Cat Program became involved, and program coordinator Shelly Kotter found a rural home for the colony. Larry Baer, an organic farmer in rural Deersprings, agreed to house the cats on his 20-acre property.
“This farm sits in the middle of the greatest of God’s green Earth!” Baer said. “I’ve got separated sections for the crops and that will give the cats ample places to run, play and escape if necessary. Woodpiles and the other building materials from our working farm add to the spots for the cats to play the longest game of hide and seek.”
The feral cats recently made the journey to their new farm home, and Kotter said they are adjusting quickly. “I am happy to report that all the cats are doing well,” she said.