Dear Editor,
Since my wife and I moved into our new home in Airdrie in 2009, we have done extensive work in our backyard, requiring hundreds of hours of sweat and thousands of dollars. To maintain this oasis requires backbreaking work daily in the spring and summer. Ten years of digging, planting, replanting and weeding. Most days our backs and knees are so sore, but the enjoyment of it all keeps us happy.
We live in King’s Heights. This spring, after May 1, I will be placing traps to humanely capture the multitude of cats who have decided to use our oasis as their personal bathrooms. I would never blame a cat; we don’t own any pets ourselves because we have put so much time and energy into our yard.
This is for our neighbours who do own cats and let them wander freely all day. Your cats are ruining my backyard, I have watched as my neighbours open their doors in the morning, the cat walks out and 10 minutes later it’s urinating on my deck. I am trying to be a thoughtful neighbour by posting this letter. If the cat you let wander does not come home, there is a good chance it was caught and is now safe with the City of Airdrie.
To retrieve your pet, pay the fine, I believe the first fine is $75, and you will need to licence the animal, as well. I will continue taking your cats to the City for your retrieval; I believe the fine increases if your cat ends up there more than once. Keep in mind how you feel when a dog craps on your lawn, there is no difference.
I need you to understand we are not trying to be bad neighbours and we should not feel bad about sending your cat to the city pound. Please think when you open your door and watch your cat wander down the street. We have the right to enjoy our space without having to dig through cat urine and feces. I currently have pictures of five cats who urinate all over our backyard and I will soon be taking each one to the City.
Please be a good neighbour, leash your cats, as is the law. Let your cat enjoy your backyard as they have no right to destroy mine.
Jason Gorsalitz
King’s Heights
