This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2008, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
It is disturbing that the town of Randolph, Iowa, offered a bounty to its residents for turning in feral cats (“Iowa town offers $5 bounty on stray cats,” Tribune, March 12). Choosing to destroy these animals as a first option is fraught with undesired consequences. Besides the obvious inhumane treatment of the cats, children are taught that this is an acceptable way to deal with any undesired animals. A more logical response to the feral cat problem would be to request assistance from the numerous animal sanctuaries and rescue groups around the country.
Fortunately, Kanab's Best Friends Animal Society, along with other animal rescue groups, stepped in and asked the city to reconsider. As a result, Randolph rescinded the bounty offer and is working with these groups to resolve the issue in a humane way.
Utah should be proud of the great work being done by the Best Friends Animal Society, the largest no-kill sanctuary in the country, with dedicated employees, volunteers and supporters.
Josh Johnson
Tooele
