Animal live traps are a winter hazard

The City of Shenandoah verified cats are not required to be vaccinated or licensed within the boundaries of the town. In fact, they went on to state, cats are free to roam. Which brings me to my point of concern — the use of  “Live Animal Traps.”

As winter weather really sets in, don’t forget to help keep your cats warm and safe. I understand the stray cat situation and the need to be compassionate toward all animals. What a horrible situation it would be for any cat if someone carelessly left a live trap set on their premises in unthinkable weather conditions. I am sickened by how humans believe they are high and mighty, allowing themselves the right to do as they chose to animals.

I am starting a Facebook campaign in honor of the welfare of strays our slogan will be “Show Respect For Life.” Public awareness and public pressure is the key to ending all animal abuse. Those who abuse are in need of being exposed! The more all of us expose the truth and demand action against these abusive situations, the sooner they will end.  

If you see a live animal cage in use on raging hot days, or blustery winter nights, report it as soon as possible. Then check to make sure the situation was significantly rectified. The cruelty of such an action speaks volumes against humanity. It is mind boggling to think of the overnight damage, which could occur to an innocent kitten or helpless cat left in a cage in freezing temptures. Tell as many people as you can and ask them to do the same. Personally, I don’t have to go far to be made aware of this type of situation.
Furthermore, there are several codes condemning  these type of actions.          

Chapter 717B of the Iowa Code outlines the specific legal definitions used in Iowa for animal abuse, animal neglect and animal cruelty. Under Iowa state law, these three crimes can overlap, but the law entails detailed outlines explaining the differences among them. The law outlines in detail the potential civil and criminal punishments that can result, as well as the reimbursement the state owes the accused if they are found not guilty of any wrongdoing. The detailed rules in this section are the basis for charges of animal cruelty.

Sec. 717B.3 states it is unlawful for a person who impounds or confines, in any place, an animal, excluding livestock, to fail to supply the animal during confinement with a sufficient quantity of food and water, or fail to provide a confined dog or cat with adequate shelter, or to torure, deprive of necessary sustenance, mutilate, beat, or kill such animal by means which unjustified pain, distress or suffering. Which includes neglect due to weather conditions.

Anyone using a live trap will be responsable for the repercussions of their actions.

The above code is an example of animal neglect and cruelty. Cats are very intelligent and will find shelter when stray. However, if trapped without shelter in a live cage overnight, severe consequences could take place just like with people who are stranded in the cold.   

Hypothermia is a condition in which core temperature drops below the required temperature. As the temperature decreases further physiological systems falter and heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure all decreases.  Would anyone want this for their pet, their child, or theirself ?  
The answer I am looking for is “No” of course not !    

I am unyielding, refusing to change from where I stand, as I am very adamant concerning this dire situation. Help your cats remain healthy during the colder months by following these simple guidelines.        
Hypothermia, or a body temperature that is below normal, is a condition that occurs when the cats are not able to keep their body temperature from falling below normal. It happens when they spend too much time in cold temperatures, or when cats with poor health or circulation are exposed to cold. In mild cases, your cat will shiver and show signs of depression, lethargy, and weakness. As the condition progresses, her muscles will stiffen, her heart and breathing rates will slow down, and she will stop responding to stimuli. If you notice these  symptoms, you need to get your cat warm and take her to your veterinarian.  Another cold-related problem is frostbite.

Sometimes your cat may accidentally be left outside or become lost during a heavy snowstorm. Frostbite may result. If this happens, remember - frozen tissues should never be rubbed. This causes additional tissue damage. Prompt veterinary treatment is needed.  If this is not possible, warm the affected area rapidly by immersing in warm, never  hot,  water or by using warm, moist towels that are changed frequently. As soon as the affected tissues become flushed, discontinue warming. Gently dry the affected tissues and lightly cover with a clean, dry, non-adhering bandage. If frostbite is in the later stages, gangrene may set in and cause all kinds of infections. So, if you suspect your cat has frostbite, take her to the veterinarian.  

I suggest never ever leave the live trap armed and unattended. It is the same thing as leaving your unattended dog in your car with all the windows closed in a parking lot under the midday sun.. THINK!!! for the sake of all and any animal.

Angel L’Amour is from Shenandoah.