Lycoming Animal Protection Society

Charitable organization protects cast-away cats
By Bethany J. McClain

     For many felines, this winter was one of unpredictable weather and harsh conditions full of brutal winds and piles of snow. Those who were cast into the outdoors undoubtedly sought shelter from the cold weather to survive after being abandoned by individuals who either no longer wished to maintain the animal or simply were unable.
     In either case, many of these cats find themselves in the hands of caring volunteers seeking to end the populous strays that roam the surrounding area.
     The Lycoming Animal Protection Society, LAPS for short, is a no-kill cat shelter that is staffed by volunteers and is largely funded by the generosity of the community.
     Myra Liddic, corresponding secretary of the facility, said the shelter took its place in the community in 1992 established by Richard Lewis. Having cats of his own, he noticed many strays surrounding the area and took pity upon them. Wanting to end the surplus population of unwanted felines, the shelter was made available and the long road to spay and neutering stray cats began.
     “Our main idea is to not have these poor animals that are homeless put down unless there is a good medical reason for it,” Liddic said. “There are some of them up there who we call lifers. They have a home there for as long as they’re living.”
     The shelter, located at 3510 W. Fourth St. since 1995, currently houses about 85 cats. Many find their way to the facility by way of a volunteer while their caretakers disown others. Liddic said there are usually a variety of reasons the felines are brought in such as moving to a building that doesn’t allow pets or they have developed allergies. “They give us all kinds of stories about why they’re bringing them in, but I think they just get tired of them,” she said.
     While this may seem sad, there is hope for another relationship for these discarded cats. All of the felines are available for adoption. The public may visit the facility and sit among the animals and wait for a bond to be made. If there is an interest in giving a cat a new home, a $45 adoption fee is applied. Not only is the cat spayed or neutered, but is current with all of its shots. Some individuals actually prefer to adopt an adult cat for many reasons. Beyond the kitten stage, older cats are more relaxed and cause less trouble, often preferring to become lap pets.
     If adopting a feline is not possible, there are still a number of ways the community may contribute. Financially, Liddic said memberships are available for $15 per year, $10 for those age 65 or older, and $5 a year for youth memberships. A membership entitles a vote for individuals serving on the LAPS board, fund raising and dates for events.
     LAPS also has a foster program in place where individuals may donate $15 a month that goes towards a cat’s care. If they visit the facility and see a feline they particularly like, they will receive a picture of it so they know whom it is they are sponsoring.
     Those unable to donate financially may still contribute to the facility by volunteering. Caring for the animals is quite a job but is more manageable when duties are divided among volunteers. Sharing chores such as cleaning, feeding, grooming and laundry tends to the overall upkeep at the facility. Volunteers may pick when they are available to donate their time and for how long. Liddic said the 18 volunteers currently there range in age from teenagers to those in their 70s. She said there are working mothers who are only able to give an hour a week while others are more flexible with their time and may help out at LAPS several times through a week’s period.
     Information about LAPS, its fund raisers and volunteer program is available by calling 327-8707. Applications may be picked up at the facility or mailed to potential volunteers.

Losing a beloved pet is a traumatic experience with many emotional ups and downs. Please visit these sites for comfort and sharing:

www.in-memory-of-pets.com

www.petloss.com

Lycoming Animal Protection Society, Inc.

PO Box 3102, Williamsport, PA 17701.

570-327-8707