Above And Beyond

To the Editor:

An incident that easily could have meant curtains for our beloved greyhound, Jade, Saturday night turned out happily, thanks to a private citizen and one of Newtown’s finest.

Due to a long-standing out-of-town commitment, our family had to miss the huge tercentennial birthday bash.

We arrived home Saturday evening after a long and tiring day. My husband, Paul, was tired and wanted to relax, but I wanted to see the tercentennial fireworks. Our two young adult children had their own plans, so I decided to bring my best buddy who is always eager to accompany me anywhere I take her: our 6-year-old retired racer, Jade. I thought she would be fine, since storms and loud noises don’t seem to faze her.

I packed up a flashlight, portable chair, and water for Jade and headed toward Fairfield Hills. We parked in a lot on South Main Street and walked to the viewing area on Queen Street. I was sitting comfortably in my folding chair, petting Jade, as the light show began. As the second burst of color lit up the sky, Jade suddenly bolted. She caught me unawares and pulled so hard I lost hold of the leash. I went bounding after her, leaving my belongings behind, but was unable to catch my petrified pet who is capable of running at up to 40 miles per hour. Many people along the way told me they had seen her run by, but I she was nowhere in sight.

I called the family to come help find her. We searched frantically for about an hour, worried that she would get hit by a car when the fireworks ended and everyone was driving home.

Thankfully, a private citizen on Elm Drive spotted her and called police. Jade was wearing her license and rabies tag attached to the beautiful collar I had purchased at a recent greyhound reunion. She also was still attached to her leash.

Officer Figol responded and told me Jade was shaking with fear. She brought Jade to headquarters, gave her a drink and called our veterinarian, Dr Karen Harter, who tracked us down. What a blessing to hear she was safe. I was unspeakably grateful. Officer Figol even brought her home.

The morale of the story is that Newtown has nice neighbors and professional police officers who go above and beyond in looking out for the welfare of the community. I now know a fireworks show is no place for a dog. (In hindsight, I realize it should have been a no brainer).

Thank you so much to everyone who helped give this story a happy ending. Thank you also to the devoted volunteers who worked tirelessly to put on a terrific fireworks show. I enjoyed it in spite of everything.

Nancy Doniger

4 Saddle Ridge Road, Newtown                                                                                                 August 8, 2005