Community Initiative Brings Humane Cat Control to Newton County
A new effort to control the feral cat population has launched in Newton County, Georgia, bringing with it a structured approach to Trap, Neuter, Return (TNR). Led by Dawn Kinsey Smith, the initiative builds on her success from a similar program at the Humane Society of Walton County, where she helped spay or neuter over 500 cats in the past year. Now, Smith has set up her own nonprofit, Not My Cat, dedicated to TNR services, education, and community outreach.
What Is Not My Cat?
Smith’s new organization is focused on practical solutions rather than cat rescue. Not My Cat is dedicated to teaching local residents how to humanely manage feral cat populations. Through workshops, public speaking engagements, and hands-on training, the nonprofit educates the community on the importance of TNR. The goal is clear: fewer stray kittens and a healthier environment for existing feral cats.
Smith emphasizes that feeding cats without sterilizing them is not a sustainable practice. “If you feed them, you need to fix them,” she stresses. Cats reproduce at a rapid pace, with Georgia’s warm climate allowing up to four litters per year. Without intervention, cat colonies can quickly spiral out of control, leading to overcrowding and increased suffering.
First Workshop Set to Educate Residents
The first community education event hosted by Not My Cat is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Covington. The workshop, taking place at the Antique Market next to Ace Hardware, will offer attendees a chance to learn more about TNR and how to build a feral cat shelter. Smith encourages everyone to come out, especially those who are already feeding stray cats.
Workshops like these are crucial because they empower people with practical skills. Beyond simply trapping and neutering cats, attendees will learn how to provide proper care for existing colonies. The approach is humane, effective, and widely endorsed by animal welfare experts as the best method for controlling feral populations.
Expanding Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Options
One of the biggest challenges for many residents is access to affordable veterinary care for feral cats. To address this, Smith has collaborated with CatSnip, a mobile veterinary service, to bring low-cost spay and neuter clinics to Newton County. The first mobile clinic is set for Wednesday, February 19, at the Future Farmers of America site at 720 FFA / FHA Camp Rd. in Covington.
For those interested in making an appointment, Smith advises checking the Project CatSnip website or following the organization’s Facebook page for availability. She has also partnered with Paradox Spay Neuter Clinic, another low-cost provider, to expand options for residents looking to take action in their communities.
How to Support the Initiative
Not My Cat operates entirely on donations, and all contributions are tax-deductible. Smith has set up a business checking account and accepts donations through Cash App to help fund the program. The money raised goes toward covering veterinary costs, educational materials, and supplies needed for TNR operations.
Smith hopes the new program will not only curb Newton County’s feral cat problem but also inspire others to get involved. She believes that community participation is key, and with the right resources, residents can make a real difference.
