Return to Field with Neighborhood Cats – Part 2, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director of Neighborhood Cats

Return to Field with Neighborhood Cats – Part 2, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director of Neighborhood Cats

Author: The Community Cats Podcast November 25, 2025 Duration: 40:59

"The goal is simple. Do what's best for this individual cat—not what's easiest for us."

This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.

In Part 2 of the Return to Field training, Bryan Kortis walks us through the practical side of RTF implementation—how to assess which cats qualify, how to safely house and return them, and what to do when friendly cats enter the system. With an emphasis on individualized outcomes, this session covers the real-world nuance of returning cats to their original locations while balancing public concerns, shelter capacity, and cat welfare. You'll hear how shelters can handle complaints, use targeted TNR to reduce future intake, and avoid legal pitfalls. This is the roadmap for anyone serious about humane, effective community cat management.

Press Play Now For:

  • How to assess a cat's eligibility for RTF
  • What to do when a cat seems friendly or may have been abandoned
  • Legal lessons from the San Diego lawsuit on "friendly" RTF cats
  • Why tracking, mapping, and post-release follow-up are key
  • Combining RTF with targeted TNR for maximum impact
  • How to navigate complaints and educate your community

Resources Mentioned:

Sponsor Links:

  • Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies640)

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Tuning into The Community Cats Podcast feels like joining a thoughtful conversation with neighbors who share a deep concern for the feline lives intertwined with our own. This isn't just about admiration from afar; it's a practical, compassionate resource for anyone who has ever wondered how to help the unowned cat in their backyard or navigate the complexities of local animal welfare. Each episode builds a supportive environment through genuine dialogue, bringing together voices from the front lines-including caregivers, veterinarians, non-profit founders, and community organizers. You'll hear real stories and actionable strategies that blend the heart of family and pets with the necessary mechanics of business and non-profit work, making it accessible for listeners of all ages, including kids involved in community care. The education provided here demystifies everything from Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) to colony management and public policy, empowering you with the information to make a tangible difference. This podcast recognizes that helping community cats is a multifaceted endeavor, and its discussions reflect that holistic view, fostering a sense of shared purpose and practical knowledge you can apply right where you live.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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