Frequently Asked Questions

TNRVA is a Virginia non-stock corporation and a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity, officially registered to do business as TNRVA. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please make checks payable to TNRVA.

What is TNRVA?

TNRVA is a community-driven initiative created to bring people together to support community cats. Our goal is to provide a shared space where trappers, caregivers, homeowners, and residents can connect, communicate, and work collaboratively to meet the needs of cats in their neighborhoods.

The website serves as a central place for sharing information and resources. Trappers can view areas that are already being cared for, which promotes coordination, avoids overlapping efforts, and helps ensure cats are not missed. The platform also highlights areas where help is needed but no trapper is currently available, making it easier for the community to step in where support gaps exist.

For community members seeking help, TNRVA makes it simple to find local trappers, nearby clinics, and upcoming spay/neuter or vaccination events. By bringing this information together in one place, we aim to reduce confusion and make access to care more equitable and approachable.

What are TNRVA main goals?

Our Goals

  • Build a strong, connected network of trappers and caregivers
  • Raise funds to support administrative needs and coordination efforts
  • Sponsor feral cat clinic days and spay/neuter appointments
  • Partner with and hire mobile veterinary clinics
  • Support sustainable, compassionate care for community cats

Our Ultimate Goal

To create and operate our own mobile veterinary clinic that serves low-income communities and provides accessible veterinary care to both the homeless population and their companion animals—meeting people and pets where they are with dignity, compassion, and support.

 

What would you want someone to know about TNRVA if they are completely new to us or to TNR?
We want you to know that we offer a humane solution to the overpopulation of felines. We connect people who need and want help with those who can and will help.

If someone wants to donate, what are the typical questions they might have about how to do it or where their money goes?
We have several goals for our funds. Donations would go towards administration, sponsoring sterilization appointments, buying equipment, and our ultimate goal is to own a mobile vet.

Frequently asked questions

TNRVA is a Virginia non-stock corporation and a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity, officially registered to do business as TNRVA. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please make checks payable to TNRVA.

What does TNRVA stand for?

TNRVA stands for Trap Neuter Return Virginia, with a special focus on Richmond. We serve Richmond and the surrounding Greater Richmond communities.

TNRVA is being developed as a centralized hub where trappers can connect with homeowners, caregivers, and residents who need help with community cats. Our mission is to provide one shared space where information, resources, and support are easily accessible.

Through the website, trappers will be able to see which areas are already being maintained. This helps avoid overlap and allows trappers to identify locations where another trapper may already be working, as well as areas that have been flagged as needing assistance but currently have no trapper assigned.

For those seeking help, TNRVA will make it easy to find nearby trappers, locate the closest clinics, and learn about upcoming spay/neuter events and vaccine clinics in their area.

Why is TNR necessary?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the most effective and humane way to manage community (outdoor) cat populations. Unaltered cats reproduce quickly, which leads to colony growth, scarcity of resources, and increased suffering for both cats and the community.

TNR stops the breeding cycle by humanely trapping cats, spaying or neutering them, vaccinating them, and returning them to their original territory. Once altered, cats no longer reproduce, nuisance behaviors like fighting, spraying, and yowling are greatly reduced, and overall colony numbers naturally decline over time. TNR also improves the health and quality of life for the cats while reducing shelter intake and euthanasia rates.

In short, TNR benefits everyone—cats, caregivers, shelters, and the community.

Is TNR legal in Virginia?

Yes. Trap‑Neuter‑Return (TNR) is legal in Virginia.

Virginia state law allows private individuals and organizations to humanely trap community cats, have them spayed or neutered by a licensed veterinarian, and return them to their original location. The Virginia Attorney General’s office has clarified that these activities are permitted under state law, and that properly conducted TNR does not constitute abandonment. 

In addition, Virginia legislators have repeatedly affirmed that localities may operate or support TNR programs if they choose, and that volunteers participating in TNR are not considered the legal owners of community cats. While proposed legislation to further standardize TNR statewide has had mixed outcomes, TNR itself remains lawful in Virginia.

Important note:
Local ordinances (such as feeding rules or specific animal control policies) can vary by city or county, so it’s always wise to check local regulations before beginning a TNR project.

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Join our mission

Become a part of the solution for humane feline population control in Richmond. Your support, whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, makes a real difference. Let us work together to create a healthier community for cats.