02/26/2024
Being a TNR educator requires patience and skill.
So, your neighbor hates cats. You love cats, so much so, you have a colony you care for by providing shelter, food, water, vet care and TNRing. Neighbor wants you to stop feeding, as if 🤣
First off, always have the safety of your cats in mind. You never know the lengths people will go to to get rid of these cats, or even to get even with you.
As the conversation goes on, notice if you’re speaking to an open minded individual or a closed minded, both of which need reasoning, compassion and understanding. Smile or look concerned as they speak their frustration and agree. Never show annoyance. Apologize for the situation and explain the benefits and how someone needed to step up and take responsibility.
Know that education is key. Learn it, memorize it, and practice it. The more you practice saying it, it will flow out of your mouth smoothly, and people will listen. Never show signs of defensiveness/hostility, this is key when trying to educate people, otherwise it will somehow turn their hearing off. It’s amazing 🤷🏻‍♀️
Elaborate that TNR is Trap-Neuter-Return, not Release.
Here’s some ideas as what to include on your flyer:
HANTAVIRUS
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) kills 1 in 3 humans infected with this disease from infected mice.
SOURCE
Humans can get HPS when they come into contact with infected deer mice or their urine, dropping or
saliva.
PREVENTION
Avoid aerosolization - Never sweep or vacuum mouse droppings.
Take care when cleaning rodent-infected areas by wearing rubber or latex gloves. Thoroughly spray/soak
area with a disinfectant or mixture of bleach and water to reduce dust. Wipe/mop area with a sponge or papertowel. Wash hands thoroughly. Double-bag
contaminated materials and dispose of them in covered containers.
Avoid activity inside poorly ventilated buildings that
may be infested with rodents. Open windows and doors and air out prior to occupancy. Do not play with
or handle any live or dead rodents. Keep food in rodent-proof containers.
Whenever possible, adopt feral cats that have been through the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program to keep mice at bay. The TNR program also provides vaccinations and an ear-tip, verifying they have been
through the program and are unable to reproduce.
They will need to be kept in an enclosed area (barn, garage etc.) for 2-3 weeks to learn this is their new
home and will need to be fed daily, as mice are more of a toy.
SYMPTOMS (similar to influenza)
Early symptoms: chills, fever, muscle aches.
Later, 1-2 days: dry cough, headache, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath.
GOOD TO KNOW
Most prevalent in rural areas. Campers and hikers more likely to catch disease because tents rest on the ground.
Cannot be spread between humans.
