Legislator Browning Recognizes the O-Cat Committee for Spay/Neutering Over 5,500 Feral Cats
Hauppauge, NY - July 31, 2017 - On Tuesday, July 25, 2017 the Suffolk County Legislature recognized the O-Cat Committee, founded in 2011 by Mastic Beach resident Vinnie Martin, for its successful efforts in reducing the growing feral cat population. Legislators Kate Browning (WF-Shirley) and Monica Martinez (D- Brentwood) presented a proclamation to the committee for all that they have accomplished in Suffolk County.
Since 2011 the O-Cat Committee has successfully trapped, vaccinated, spayed or neutered and ear notched over 5,500 feral cats from all across Suffolk County, and have helped them return to their original home or colony. Committee members provide traps to any organization or community, and help with their use. The also provide food, shelters and placement for kittens. All activities are funded privately and with the support of the Pattersquash Creek Civic Association in Mastic Beach.
There are currently six volunteers from the Tri-Hamlet community; Vinnie and Don Martin, Gayle Riccobono, Donna Thompson, Carol Clay and Jeanne LaSpisa, who joined forces with the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons and the Brookhaven Animal Shelter.
“Feral cats have been the focus of community complaints and concerns for many years,” stated Legislator Browning. “Since local animal shelters do not take cats off the streets, the problem can grow very quickly. The O-Cat Committee has done a tremendous job by reducing thousands of feral cats in our community. We appreciate their volunteer work and I am proud to recognize all that they have accomplished.”