Supporters Launch New Animal Shelter Construction Project

By Kendra Bobowick

Officials carried shovels across a shadow-covered field on Old Farm Road Extension Wednesday morning, awaiting the ceremonial groundbreaking for Newtown’s new animal shelter. Pavement turned to rutted gravel where general contractor Duncan Sellar of Baybutt Construction and Land Use Director George Benson overlooked the new site located downhill from the Second Company Horse Guard’s fields.

By 9 am Wednesday, town officials including First Selectman Pat Llodra, Canine Advocates of Newtown (CAN) President Virginia Jess, members of the group’s board of directors, and current dog pound staff took up hard hats and gardening spades as they celebrated what would soon be a new, larger facility for Newtown’s dogs and cats awaiting adoption.

Acknowledging first the “incredible accomplishment” of the years-long pubic and private partnership to build a pound, Mrs Llodra said the moment represents the successful effort to “do better by our animals.” The new pound will be a “new and better place for our cats and dogs.” Hoping to see the facility open by December, she acknowledged the CAN volunteers’ and all supporters’ hard work to raise funds and awareness for a new pound.

Ms Jess said the new facility “represents a dream, and today it becomes a reality.” Contributions including “all the little things” coming from the community have added up, she said. She turned to former first selectman Herb Rosenthal saying, “Herb spoke up for the animals for 12 years.” Looking toward her various board members she said, “You worked effortlessly; you stuck through it.” And remembering longtime advocate and friend of the pound, the late Dr Brian Silverlieb of Mt Pleasant Hospital for Animals, she said, “[Brian] is smiling down. God has blessed this project.”

Mrs Llodra spoke to the supporters gathered, including residents such as Maureen Donnel and her dog Misty, who sponsored a room in the new building. Board of Directors member Phil Vail walked with his 13-month-old golden retriever Jacob, who sniffed and greeted everyone. A small, wiry terrier named Cricket also joined the group with his owner Sue Corey. Does she support the pound?

“You bet!” she said.

Animal Control Officer Carolee Mason and Assistant Animal Control Officer Matt Schaub received a brief applause for their continued care of Newtown’s animals. Judy Caracciolo and her granddaughter Leah walked their dog among those gathered, laughing and enjoying the morning.

The new facility was designed by Jacunski Humes Architects of Berlin. The entire project is estimated to cost $1 million, with a $750,000 contribution from the town, and roughly $237,000 from CAN fundraising, plus other private donations.