Dogs are said to affect wildlife in five general ways. They become predators and kill wild animals, disturb the ecosystem, transmit diseases to wildlife, compete with them for prey, and also interbreed with closely related species. Pet overpopulation has been a concern in communities across the globe for decades. Countless organizations and individuals have become dedicated to helping end pet homelessness in their communities, but one thing we often don’t consider is how pet overpopulation also impacts native animal populations. According to One Green Planet, "On Oahu, the third largest Hawaiian island, the population of stray and feral cats has become overwhelming, reaching numbers of about 300,000 according to a 2013 study by the Hawaiian Humane Society. The amount of fecal matter produced by cats poses a threat by spreading toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease that can be contracted by animals and humans." Birds and marine animals, including the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, have fallen victim to this disease after coming into contact with contaminated food and water.

We need to come together as a community to discuss stray animals in the Baltimore Area.

I propose that we hold a meeting with local wildlife activists and community members where we discuss:

• A. Where we gonna keep the animals safe.

• B. Giving them food, water, somewhere to sleep, and somewhere to play around.