THIS PETITION IS IN SUPPORT OF RETURNING THE 96 CATS TO LARRY AND LINDA JOHNSON THAT WERE SEIZED BY VIRGINIA BEACH ANIMAL CONTROL (OR ALTERNATIVES TO EUTHANIZING ANY THAT THEY DEEM UNADOPTABLE).

On January 25, 2004, Virginia Beach Animal Control raided the home of Larry and Linda Johnson, dedicated rescuers of cats, in response to a complaint filed by one individual who had argued with Linda over a kitten she had adopted, but not provided the proper care for after it became ill. The argument concluded with the woman telling Linda she would be sorry for not providing her with another kitten . Animal Control, acting entirely on this one individuals complaint, seized all 96 cats which were acquired by the Johnsons from Virginia Beach citizens relinquishing responsibility for their pets or calls from citizens reporting abandoned cats. There was no investigation, and Animal Control arrived prepared to seize all 96 cats, convinced of her guilt before even making an inquiry. Although the Johnsons had a cattery license permitting them to house all 96 cats, Animal Control seized the cats, citing the following reasons: ear mites and a few cases of upper respiratory, for which Linda was able to produce medication that her veterinarian had provided and other documentation that all cats had been seen by an animal medical professional. Animal Control officers also cited some waste on the floor of one room since Linda had started, but not completed her daily cleaning. All 96 cats were well fed, spayed/neutered, tested for leukemia and FIV and up to date on all shots which animal control officers admitted to on local T.V. News. The cats were in such good condition, applications for adoption were being filled out within two to three days of their seizure.

The case was heard on February 4th, and Judge Albert Alberi ruled the cats would not be released back to Linda on the grounds she could not provide adequate care for 96 cats; however, he did not question her devotion and commitment to the animals. Ten witnesses were provided by Linda Johnsons lawyer who testified to the cleanliness and high quality of care the cats received, including a licensed veterinarian.

As of February 6, the cats fate is undecided pending an appeal. The purpose of this petition is to urge the decision makers to choose LIFE over death and return these cats to Linda Johnson or release them to various local rescue groups. Animal Control has labeled the skittish cats as feral or un-adoptable which will be the first to be killed. These are not feral cats; they are Linda Johnsons companion animals and an appropriate indoor/outdoor rescue shelter for any pronounced unadoptable is available. There ARE alternatives that Animal Control can choose. Please sign and forward.