The epidemic of strays continues across the area.

Lakewood Pet Watch coordinator Stefanie Spaeth sent word yesterday about three hard-luck cases and one happy ending.

First the good news. A boxer found last week on Meadow Lake Avenue was returned to his home within the last couple of days.

Now, on to the bad news. Spaeth reported the death of another cat in the neighborhood.

An orange tabby with white paws was found dead in the 7000 block of Cornelia Lane. It had been mauled, according to Spaeth, likely the work of a stray dog since coyotes drag off their prey and don't leave behind any remains.

Spaeth again warned cat owners, and rightfully so, to supervise their pets' outdoors time and to keep them inside from dusk ‘til dawn.