Politics & Government

Hempstead Town Criticized by Animal Advocates

A weekly look-in at news from around the Town of Hempstead.

Town Criticized for Handling of Feral Cat Colony

The Hempstead Town Board was criticized at Tuesday's meeting by several animal advocates, including two banned animal shelter volunteers, for its plans to relocate the two feral cat colonies in Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore.

Town officials want to move the cats, remove their makeshift shelters and relocate their feeding stations to the end of the park starting May 1.

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According to Newsday [paid link], the town has cited "health and safety of the cats and park users" as the reasons for relocating the cat community.

One of the cats' caretakers, Joyce Christie, 71, of Bellmore, told Newsday [paid link] earlier this week that "moving the colonies put the lives of the cats in danger due to possible starvation."

Find out what's happening in Malverne-Lynbrookwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Town Waiving Pet Adoption Fees for Mother's Day

On Saturday, May 12, the town is inviting everyone to salute mothers by adopting a pet at the town's animal shelter. The normal adoption fee will be waived for this event only.

All adopted animals will also receive free rabies vaccinations, spaying/neutering and microchipping.

Prospective pet adopters are also encouraged to bring treats and/or toys for the shelter animals; all those who do so will be eligible for a door prize. There will be raffles and baked goods for sale, with proceeds benefiting the "Tails of Hope Fund," an organization helping to fund extraordinary medical surgeries for dogs and cats.

"Mamma Mia, Pets Are Free-a" will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Hempstead Town Animal Shelter is located at 3320 Beltagh Ave. in Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 785-5220 or visit the shelter's website.


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