Is this good? It makes a good online cat story. It’s fun. Internet surfers like cats that take trains and buses. Cats on public transport, behaving like people, make excellent photos. I like them too but…I question whether this is sensible. Personally, I have to state that it is not sensible because I would never let my cat wander around for 6 weeks at a time knowing that he rides on trains and buses.
Surely there is a sharply heightened risk of a cat being hurt or killed who is engaged in these activities. I wouldn’t be able to sleep properly knowing that my cat was somewhere – who knows where – out there. I don’t believe that I am exceptional.
I am writing about Jasper, a orange tabby and white domestic short haired cat living in South Shields, England.
His caretaker, Steph Keenan 42, admits that it is dangerous:
“He has wandered far and wide and has few of his nine lives remaining.”
I am sorry but is Steph doing a decent job in her role of guardian to her cat? Steph jokes about it:
“I am considering buying him an annual ticket for the Metro so that he avoids fines, prosecution or being in trouble for trespassing.”
There is a funny side that I like and find amusing. However, for me, my primary emotion is concern for Jasper’s life.
“He likes to go on the Metro platform…..Jasper is a familiar sight on the platform at North Shields Metro Station where he rides the Metro.”
It seems that commuters on the platform are more concerned about Jasper’s welfare than Steph. They apparently pick him up and take him to the vet or a shelter. Then Steph has to get him back – reclaim him. She finds this a bit irritating.
Message to Steph: Don’t take this the wrong way. Please be a bit more concerned about Jasper’s health and welfare. He obviously likes to roam but he needs to be supervised more closely. Find a way to do that. I’ll admit that it is not easy but it can be done. What about a leash or an enclosure (if you have a garden and you probably have)? I know this is troublesome but each cat owner has a responsibility for their cat’s welfare.
A cat caretaker’s first responsibility is the safety of her cat.
Please be assured my cousin and her partner are doing everything they can to look after Jasper and to tame his travelling. You have no idea how worried the whole family were! They are concerned about what Jasper gets up to but cats also need freedom.
He has a kind and loving home and a not so adventurous brother!
Thanks, Ruth, for commenting. I am pleased that there is real concern for Jasper. I just hope he isn’t allowed to get into what are probably dangerous situations all the time. Going outside is fine but to get on a train! That is something else.
I’m worried about that cat I do believe in them having freedom but that woman is irresponsible wouldn’t you think the RSPCA would advise her it’s dangerous.
You are right Rose, looking again at this part of the animal welfare act:
‘To be protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease’
Allowing Jasper to go off on trains for 6 weeks at a time isn’t protecting him from injury!
I agree it is borderline whether Steph is in breach the Act.