National Feral Cat Summit Converges in Philadelphia
IDA and Neighborhood Cats Sponsor Event Drawing Attendees, Experts from Across U.S.

Philadelphia - In Defense of Animals (IDA) and Neighborhood Cats present the 2nd Annual National Feral Cat Summit. This one-day conference, which drew rave reviews at last year’s inaugural event, will feature presentations and workshops by feral cat experts and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) leaders from around the country. 

When: Saturday, October 15th, 2005, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Wyndham Philadelphia at Franklin Plaza, 17th and Race Streets

Esther Mechler, Founder and President of SPAY USA and an early pioneer of the spay/neuter movement will give the keynote address on the vital role of TNR in solving the companion animal overpopulation that is plaguing the U.S. 

Dr. Margaret R. Slater, DVM, PhD and Texas A&M University professor, will present the latest academic research on feral cats and Bryan Kortis of Neighborhood Cats will discuss ways to persuade municipal officials to adopt TNR programs. The Regional Report segment, featuring representatives from successful TNR programs, will be introduced by Nancy Peterson, Issues Specialist for The Humane Society of the United States.

Other presenters include Kit Jenkins of PETsMART Charities, Anitra Frazier, author of The New Natural Cat and IDA’s Valerie Sicignano. The Summit will also include a film screening, How to Conduct a Mass Trapping, drop-trap demonstrations and an exhibit hall. 

“As the TNR movement increasingly moves into the mainstream, it’s vital for advocates and practitioners of the approach to come together to share knowledge and experience,” said Valerie Sicignano, spokesperson for IDA. 

This year’s sponsors include The Humane Society of the United States, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, In Defense of Animals, Mayor’s Alliance for New York City’s Animals, Alliance for Philadelphia's Animals, PETsMART Charities, PETCO Foundation and Art for Animals.

For a complete event program and to purchase tickets, visit www.neighborhoodcats.org.