#CleartheShelters: Meriden Animal Control Officers Help Strays Find Forever Homes
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Spend a day with three animal control officers from Meriden. Their jobs are far more that just tending to the shelter.
For a city of about 60,000 people, Meriden has three full-time animal control officers.
Officers Bryan Kline, Sarah Bacon and 27-year veteran Max Fresquez report to work right next door to the Meriden Humane Society, although the two shelters are separate entities. Municipal shelters like Meriden take in strays and owners surrenders within city limits.
“Legally we take in the strays, we hold them for seven days, if no one comes to claim them then they’re up for adoption as long as they’re friendly,” Bacon explains.
Although Meriden’s municipal shelter receives city funding, it’s not enough to cover the gap with expenses with intensive medical care that’s often required in serious rescue cases. To meet that need, the “M.A.C. Pack” engages with partners in the area including veterinary hospitals.
Since taking over the department six years ago, Officer Kline has virtually eliminated the need for euthanasia for overcrowding, crediting a robust social media campaign to encourage adoptions along with assistance from area rescue groups.
Kline is also spearheading the effort to obtain 501(c)3 status to facilitate more fundraising to support the department’s multifaceted mission. Gone are the days of the stereotypical “dog catcher” – the mission of animal control officers, Kline said, has evolved to include community engagement and education as well as animal rescue and rehabilitation.
“It’s more changing to animal care and control,” Officer Bacon agreed. “We’re caring for the animals more, more medical care, more behavioral assessments, more adoptions.”
All pets available for adoption from Meriden Animal Control are neutered or spayed and receive full behavioral evaluations and necessary veterinary care including vaccinations.
But the job of an animal control officer encompasses far more than tending to the shelter and overseeing adoptions. Officers answer a variety of calls in the field all day long. They range from roaming dogs to nuisance complaints to wildlife rescue to extreme cases of cruelty and neglect.
“It’s not an easy job to do; there’s a lot of tough days,” Kline says. “But along with the tough days come a lot of rewarding days as well .”
One of those days was the day Rocky found his forever home.
Officers rescued the pitbull mix in March after finding him emaciated, locked inside a cage in an abandoned house. After five months of intensive care, he was adopted by a Middletown couple. Now Rocky serves as an emotional support animal for his new owner, Ray.
Robyn Whiteley Greaves
Dan and Robyn Greaves in Oxford adopted their sweet boy Dyson from a rescue out of Mississippi.
Tim Estabrook
Thanks, it was because of you we saw they were giving forever homes to these awesome animals for next to nothing. I got my sons this cuddly cat Roxie from Newington
Katie Lee
This is our little Oliver(shelter name richy) we adopted Saturday at the #ClearTheShelter event
Michelle Donaldson McKenney
Brought home our little girl today. Totally worth the wait! We love Chloe (AKA..Tabitha). Our dogs love her too!
Adopting Delilah was the best thing we ever did! She is the love of our family! #cleartheshelters @N Adopting Delilah was the best thing we ever did! She is the love of our family! #cleartheshelters @NBCConnecticut http://t.co/BGs1lVb3tV
Mike Lindholm
6-year-old Dylan and 2-month-old puppy, Tiger.
Rachel & Kathy Wesolowski
Here are our rescued dogs (Ralph- Blonde) and Rufus (brown/red), they are both mutts and they are the best dogs ever! Here they are getting an education.
Melissa Lander
Brought home an all black Adorable kitten today!! Black cats make the best friends smile emoticon
Robyn Whiteley Greaves
Dan and Robyn Greaves in Oxford adopted their sweet boy Dyson from a rescue out of Mississippi.
Lisa Houghten Cote
Kayzer and Arlo (Rosie and Smokey) adopted from Newington! Worth the long wait lol
Meghan Poehler
Brought this baby home today from the Humane Society in Quaker Hill.
Meghan Breen
Lincoln Linc was rescued from Memphis, TN and found his forever home 4 weeks ago in Uncasville, CT. This playful and friendly beagle, spaniel, lab mix is 18 weeks old.
Heather Bailey
Rescue pet This is my beloved Brian Williams adopted from a shelter in South Carolina last year. Heather Bailey Wethersfield CT
Donna
Donna rescued "French Brittany" last October.
Linda Clough
#CleartheShelters Hi, The first photo was our beautiful cat we adopted from the Humane society in 1996 - she graced our lives for 15 years...still miss her Her name was Ginger and she was not only beautiful, but she had an amazing personality. The next photo is Riley who we adopted as a kitten - 2 photo's - one of her when we got her and another as an adult. She is 17 years old! Linda & Garnet South Windsor
Kelly Franklin
Cruise (left) and Maddie (right) are NBC Connecticut Account Executive Kelly Franklin’s precious dogs. Both were adopted from shelters in Killingworth and Enflield.
Evelyn Harris
Fel was abandoned in South Carolina and shipped to the Newington Humane Society. The Harris family in Bristol saw her and fell in love!
Laurie Berki
Empty the Shelters Attached is a picture of Rusty and Sammie Berki, rescued from RoseHope AnimalRefuge in Waterbury CT. I love my fur babies!
Joanne Valinski adopted Jeter from City of Hartford Animal Shelter 239 Maple Hill Ave Newington. This is the adorable shelter photo.
Jen Boos
LeeRoy Avon, CT adopted from a shelter in Arkansas
Steve Pancione
NBC Connecticut photographer Steve Pancione is seen here with his sweet pup Olive.
Stephanie O'Connell
Batman and Robin were rescued from the streets of Hartford by one of our own! Along with these adorable dogs, NBC Connecticut’s Assignment Editor Stephanie O’Connell has adopted another rescue dog and cat.
Meet Tasha. She's NBC Connecticut photographer Jon Wardle's dog.
Len Besthoff
Chief Investigative Reporter adopted this sweet boy, Jackson, in from the Windsor-Bloomfield Dog Pound in 2007. Jackson is a Schnauzer-Pekingese.
Lori Farley
Lori Farley rescued Toby from the Humane Society in 2006. She realized he was very smart and went through training to become Delta Society Pet Partners. He gets to make sick and elderly people feel happy, even if it's just for a little while.
Joanne Valinski adopted Jeter from City of Hartford Animal Shelter 239 Maple Hill Ave Newington. This is a vacation photo.
Mira McDermott
Berkley White This pup was rescued from Tennessee in 2014. Truly, the love of my life!!!
Ryan Hanrahan
Meet Doppler, First Alert Meteorologist Ryan Hanrahan’s adopted Golden Retriever!
Jamie Ratliff
Reporter Jamie Ratliff adopted Addie from a friend who was unable to care for her.
Allison Nachman
#cleartheshelters Heres a picture of my chubby shelter Kitty. Her name is Minxie! She was not happy about getting her picture taken. Allison Nachman
Laura Laskey
Along with two adopted cats, NBC Connecticut’s Laura Laskey in the Traffic and Billing Department has a wonderful adopted dog from Georgia named Sadie.
Stephanie O'Connell
Cheesy is NBC Connecticut’s Assignment Editor Stephanie O’Connell’s cute little cat.
Bob Maxon
First Alert Meteorologist Bob Maxon adopted his adorable dog Atticus from the Connecticut Humane Society in 2015.
Laura Laskey
King Arthur (left) was adopted in Manchester and Merlin (right) was adopted from Friends of Berlin Animal Control by NBC Connecticut’s Laura Laskey, who works in the station's Traffic and Billing Department.
Catalina Trivino
Reporter Catalina Trivino met her rescue pup, Meela, while on assignment last year. It was love at first sight!
Connors, Bob (NBCUniversal, WVIT)
First Alert Meteorologist Darren Sweeney and his dog Bentley pose in the NBC Connecticut Weather Center. Bentley was adopted in South Carolina.
Stephanie O'Connell
NBC Connecticut’s Assignment Editor Stephanie O’Connell rescued Kahlua from West Virginia.
Beth Connors
Emma and Megan Connors hold Margo, a cat they adopted from Animal Haven in North Haven.
Mike Magnano
Meet shelter dogs Baxter and Guinness.
Jackie Woodin
Sophie is a Bassador (Basset/Lab mix). She was rescued a year and a half ago and adopted from CPR Rescue in Southbury.
Barbara Romaniello
This is Cosmo, a 5-year-old Shih Tzu/Lhasa Apso that Mark and Barbara rescued almost 4 years ago. He was found roaming the streets of Arkansas and was brought to a kill shelter. Rock City Rescue saved him and he was brought to Pack Leader Rescue in Manchester. He is very happy in his new forever home in Naugatuck.
See It Share It
Denise Coogan
This is Denise Coogan's beautiful rescue Twiggy. She just turned 8 the other day.
Seana Kenefick Dyer
Shillelagh is a 5-year-old put bull adopted from the Waterford-East Lyme Animal Shelter. She is a silly, loving, wonderful dog that loves to snuggle and is a great running partner. She hams it up with any props you give her - even a lobster bib!
Janet Rosenbaum
Gypsy, or G, is Janet Rosenbaum's special rescue.
Nicole Tomarchio
Nicholas Greco
Adopted friends
Anna Fiasconaro
Anna Fiasconaro adopted Holly from the Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue organization eight years ago.
This sweet girl is Shasha.
Natalie Burke
David and Natalie Kniess rescued Savannah from the SPCA of Connecticut. She is a wonderful addition to the family!
Deborah Shackford
Deborah Shackford, of Bristol, rescued Bentley from the Connecticut Humane Society on Dec. 28, 2013.
Donna
Donna rescued Brittany back in 2010.
Norma Faber
The Faber family adopted Elsa, a hound mix, from a shelter in Tennessee in January, then rescued Chloe, a pit mix, on July 1, the day she was going to be euthanized at a shelter in Brooklyn, New York.
Christine Yandow
Soxy Grace was adopted from the Windsor Animal Hospital four years ago.
Matt Austin
Reporter Matt Austin calls his rescue pups Ace and Cassie amateur watchdogs and professional food beggars!
Darren Sweeney
Meteorologist Darren Sweeney rescued his pup, Bentley.
Ashley Baylor
This is Ashley Baylor's rescue cat Stormy.
Tracy Miller
Tracy Miller rescued this 11-year-old Border Collie when she was 9 weeks old and dumped in a shelter.
Tracy Miller
Tracy Miller rescued this 11-year-old Border Collie when she was 9 weeks old and dumped in a shelter.
apacherunner09
untitled Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone
Mary Kean
Mary Kean
Mary Kean
Mary Kean
Dara Sacco
Meet Dara Sacco's shelter dog, Paisley.
Johanna and Brad
Johanna and Brad adopted Nelly last month from Pack Leaders Dog Rescue in Manchester! She was rescued from a kill shelter in Arkansas.
Amanda Caparosa
Bugsy is a Boston Terrier mix rescued in 2008.
Lisa Bras
Adopted pets This is Bobbi my furbaby. He was adopted at about 2 months old in 2009 and still going strong! He always tends to get a little playful at bedtime when I'm brushing my teeth! Just look at his grin and fistful of my hair :-)Lisa from DanburySent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE DROID
Amy Newman
Clear the Shelters Romeo Bentley Page-Newman, the Beagle, adopted from Waterford East Lyme Animal Control on 6/11/2011. Best decision I ever made. Love this little guy so much.Amy Newman Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone
Peg Baxter
Adopted pet Piper was adopted from the New Milford animal shelter
Anita Ducharme
My beloved Lexi
Max Reiss/NBCConnecticut.com
This is our perfect dog Lillian (Lilly). She's a dachshund mix from Prattville, AL. We rescued her in September 2011. She loves pop corn, pop tarts, and chasing squirrels. She's never done anything wrong and she's the best looking anything that lives in our home. Here Lilly is hanging on dad's shoulder.
Carol Gustamachio
Jack! our rescue!
Kimberly Rogoz
Dixie Thanks to Southern Comforts Animal Rescue in Texas we were able to save this gal five years ago. She's loving life in New England.
Linda Clough
#CleartheShelters Hi, The first photo was our beautiful cat we adopted from the Humane society in 1996 - she graced our lives for 15 years...still miss her Her name was Ginger and she was not only beautiful, but she had an amazing personality. The next photo is Riley who we adopted as a kitten - 2 photo's - one of her when we got her and another as an adult. She is 17 years old! Linda & Garnet South Windsor
Linda Clough
#CleartheShelters Hi, The first photo was our beautiful cat we adopted from the Humane society in 1996 - she graced our lives for 15 years...still miss her Her name was Ginger and she was not only beautiful, but she had an amazing personality. The next photo is Riley who we adopted as a kitten - 2 photo's - one of her when we got her and another as an adult. She is 17 years old! Linda & Garnet South Windsor
Michelle Warner
Our Two Rescues.... Here are our two rescues, Bonnie the Rottweiler and Buddy the Black Lab!!!
Leanne
#cleartheshelters "Blu" our rescue kitty who has spiced up our lives this month- what a personality! We love him so much already! Leanne S. Higganum
aidale
adopted pets star and sadie adopted newington humane society mommy and baby
Vunay Sawyer
Adopted Dogs Cinnamon (front) adopted from New Britain animal control in Dec. 2011 and Beans adopted from the Sadie Mae Foundation (in Manchester) 5 years ago today! Vunay Sawyer New Britain
Janet O'Donnell
untitled Elrod and Molly...adopted two years ago from a shelter in Mississippi. Janet O'Donnell Trumbull, CT
Kirsten Rutan-Heningham
pet pictures Hi, I'm submitting pet photos!All three of my animals are rescues, my brown dog Bronwyn and my cat Ares are from Alabama, and my white dog is Odin from Florida. We have a full house but they all love each other.Very Respectfully,Kirsten Rutan-HeninghamHSC FRG Leader224th MI BNPhone:
Kirsten Rutan-Heningham
pet pictures Hi, I'm submitting pet photos!All three of my animals are rescues, my brown dog Bronwyn and my cat Ares are from Alabama, and my white dog is Odin from Florida. We have a full house but they all love each other.Very Respectfully,Kirsten Rutan-HeninghamHSC FRG Leader224th MI BNPhone:
Kirsten Rutan-Heningham
pet pictures Hi, I'm submitting pet photos!All three of my animals are rescues, my brown dog Bronwyn and my cat Ares are from Alabama, and my white dog is Odin from Florida. We have a full house but they all love each other.Very Respectfully,Kirsten Rutan-HeninghamHSC FRG Leader224th MI BNPhone:
Kirsten Rutan-Heningham
pet pictures Hi, I'm submitting pet photos!All three of my animals are rescues, my brown dog Bronwyn and my cat Ares are from Alabama, and my white dog is Odin from Florida. We have a full house but they all love each other.Very Respectfully,Kirsten Rutan-HeninghamHSC FRG Leader224th MI BNPhone:
Joanne Valinski
NBC Connecticut administrative assistant Joanne Valinski adopted Jeter from the City of Hartford Animal Shelter in the fall of 2006.
Joanne Valinski
Here's Jeter on vacation with mom Joanne Valinski!
Laurie Marks
Adopted pets Harley on the left was adopted at 7 years of age and Gizmo on the right was adopted at 2 months of age. Both came from the Newington Humane Society and are now 12 1/2 and 4 1/2 years old. In the center is Dash, although not from a shelter, he too was rescued from a bad situation.
rlyoungct@yahoo.com
Maverick Maverick enjoying the beach. He rescued us 5 years agoSent from my Verizon 4G LTE Smartphone
Andrea
Fwd: Madison Andrea DeCarliSent from my iPhoneBegin forwarded message:From: Andrea
Louise Marcellus
Adopted felines Meet Higgins(left) and Toby(right) both adopted from "Forgotten Felines" in Westbrook. We adopted Higgins 2 yrs ago and Toby a week ago. They're just wonderful!
Stacey Stachow
Daisy Rescue Daisy is an English Pointer rescued from the Newington Humane Society. This is her first boat outing. We rescued her when she was 5 (two years ago).
#cleartheshelters Last July, we adopted two kittens, a brother and a sister, from the Meriden Humane Society. Their names are Boo and Violet, and they are members of our family! (Those myths about black cats being bad are silly!!) - Nicole from Wallingford
Heather Inglis
Rescued pets My rescues are Comet and Dexter. Dexter is the black one.
Heather Inglis
Spot Spot came to us from South Carolina. He was in a high kill shelter and a local rescue group brought him here and we adopted him. That was eleven years ago and he is the best dog ever!
Lisa Bras
Adopted pets Here's a better pic of Bobbi the cat.Lisa from DanburySent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE DROID
Myers
Chloe Chloe the sweetheart of the Myers family of Enfield
Maria Raines
Adopted pets Rescued our Roxy girl this past January~ Maria ~
Allison & Jeff
#ClearTheShelters Cholula rescued from Westbrook, CT
Maria Raines
Adopted pets Rescued our Roxy girl this past January~ Maria ~
Michelle Sadowski
Rescued pets I saw Keisha's post this evening of her handsome Smushee, and she was crowd sourcing adopted pet photos. I wanted to share my girls' photos and their stories, because they are so very special. I adopted Sassafras from Danbury Animal Welfare Society in 2009. She was overly stressed, and had been in shelters for months if not years. It didn't take very long for Sassy and I to become the greatest of friends. She became my light and my life. I took a job transfer to Florida in 2011, and she came to love trips to the dog beach over hiking at East Rock or Lake Wintergreen. Soon after moving, I learned of an amazing rescue organization in South Florida, Big Dog Ranch Rescue. I wanted to find a "friend" for Sassy to keep her company during my long days at work. She is extremely picky about her doggie friends, so I knew it needed to be a very, very special dog. I only had one rule - no puppies! Well, on my second trip to The Ranch to view their available dogs, Lizbeth's quiet demeanor and sad eyes caught my attention among all of the other crazy barking dogs. She had me instantly...and she was only 12 weeks old. I was violating my own rule! Nearly three and a half years later, these two beautiful dogs are now inseparable. They may not sleep on the same bed, but they are rarely more than a few feet from each other. And, they build off of each other's strengths. They touch everyone who meets them, and I am so blessed that they rescued me. #adoptdontshop I am hopeful that the pictures come through. Lizzie is the dark brindle hugging a giant stuffed animal, which she does nightly before bed. And, Sassy is white with black spots "chilling" under the kitchen table...hoping for something to fall within her reach! Thank you for allowing me to share.
kristin.giannini
Adopted pets Here is Carly who we adopted from the Hartford Shelter 2 Years agoSent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone
Michelle Sadowski
Rescued pets I saw Keisha's post this evening of her handsome Smushee, and she was crowd sourcing adopted pet photos. I wanted to share my girls' photos and their stories, because they are so very special. I adopted Sassafras from Danbury Animal Welfare Society in 2009. She was overly stressed, and had been in shelters for months if not years. It didn't take very long for Sassy and I to become the greatest of friends. She became my light and my life. I took a job transfer to Florida in 2011, and she came to love trips to the dog beach over hiking at East Rock or Lake Wintergreen. Soon after moving, I learned of an amazing rescue organization in South Florida, Big Dog Ranch Rescue. I wanted to find a "friend" for Sassy to keep her company during my long days at work. She is extremely picky about her doggie friends, so I knew it needed to be a very, very special dog. I only had one rule - no puppies! Well, on my second trip to The Ranch to view their available dogs, Lizbeth's quiet demeanor and sad eyes caught my attention among all of the other crazy barking dogs. She had me instantly...and she was only 12 weeks old. I was violating my own rule! Nearly three and a half years later, these two beautiful dogs are now inseparable. They may not sleep on the same bed, but they are rarely more than a few feet from each other. And, they build off of each other's strengths. They touch everyone who meets them, and I am so blessed that they rescued me. #adoptdontshop I am hopeful that the pictures come through. Lizzie is the dark brindle hugging a giant stuffed animal, which she does nightly before bed. And, Sassy is white with black spots "chilling" under the kitchen table...hoping for something to fall within her reach! Thank you for allowing me to share.
Michelle Sadowski
Rescued pets I saw Keisha's post this evening of her handsome Smushee, and she was crowd sourcing adopted pet photos. I wanted to share my girls' photos and their stories, because they are so very special. I adopted Sassafras from Danbury Animal Welfare Society in 2009. She was overly stressed, and had been in shelters for months if not years. It didn't take very long for Sassy and I to become the greatest of friends. She became my light and my life. I took a job transfer to Florida in 2011, and she came to love trips to the dog beach over hiking at East Rock or Lake Wintergreen. Soon after moving, I learned of an amazing rescue organization in South Florida, Big Dog Ranch Rescue. I wanted to find a "friend" for Sassy to keep her company during my long days at work. She is extremely picky about her doggie friends, so I knew it needed to be a very, very special dog. I only had one rule - no puppies! Well, on my second trip to The Ranch to view their available dogs, Lizbeth's quiet demeanor and sad eyes caught my attention among all of the other crazy barking dogs. She had me instantly...and she was only 12 weeks old. I was violating my own rule! Nearly three and a half years later, these two beautiful dogs are now inseparable. They may not sleep on the same bed, but they are rarely more than a few feet from each other. And, they build off of each other's strengths. They touch everyone who meets them, and I am so blessed that they rescued me. #adoptdontshop I am hopeful that the pictures come through. Lizzie is the dark brindle hugging a giant stuffed animal, which she does nightly before bed. And, Sassy is white with black spots "chilling" under the kitchen table...hoping for something to fall within her reach! Thank you for allowing me to share.
Lisa Young
untitled BOWIE
Mary
Adopted pets!
untitled Oreo adopted from the Ellington, Ct. Dog Pound
Kristin
Rescue pet Our beloved rescue Gracie
Vunay Sawyer
Adopted Dogs Cinnamon (front) adopted from New Britain animal control in Dec. 2011 and Beans adopted from the Sadie Mae Foundation (in Manchester) 5 years ago today! Vunay Sawyer New Britain
Mindi Davidson
Rescue Pups This is Reagan. She double duties as our girl and also works hard to spread the hard work of the March of Dimes!
Jennifer Leimbach
#cleartheshelters This is Dax (formerly known as Scrappy- which just did not fit this handsome lover) from the Humane Society in Newington. He was adopted as an adult but continues to learn new tricks, proving the old saying false. Jen Leimbach, Bristol CT
Lauren Kesten
NBC Connecticut editor Lauren Kesten rescued Riley from Protectors of Animals.
Lauren Kesten
NBC Connecticut editor Lauren Kesten rescued Shelly from Protectors of Animals.
Mary Maffeo
Anthony and Mary Maffeo, of North Haven, adopted Emma from the Wallingford Animal Control center.
Geoff Crosley
Geoff Crosley, of Naugatuck, rescued Meadow from down South.
MARY DUVAL
Meet Mary Duval's rescue pets Blitzen and Star. Blitzen the dog was rescued from a high-kill shelter by the Friends of Mansfield Animal Shelter. Star was rescued and treated for an eye injury by Animal Friends of CT. They are precious, and cherished beyond measure. You can find gems like these two in shelters.
Kimberly Bartone
Chanel was adopted from the Newington Humane Society in November 2015.
Joanne Faust
Joanne Faust's three cats were adopted from Friends of Berlin Animal Control.
Joe, Colleen and rescue pup Charlie.
Meet Mugsy!
Karen J. Harrington
Tyler was adopted from Ledyard Animal Control on July 19, 2012 when he was 8 weeks old! He turned 3 years old this past May 19.
Natalie Testa
Fancy the albino is 2 years old and Porky is 10 years old. Both are Pekingese. Fancy is special needs because of her defect and Porky was severely abused and under nourished. Both are loved and healthy!
Gail Fulco Tantorski
Meet rescue pup Lady Sybil.
Patti Clarke
Brody, Rosie, Peanut and Stella (in order) are Patti Clarke's four fabulous shelter rescues. They love to dress up and we promote animal rescue at any opportunity. They're spoiled, as they should be, have two rescue kitty siblings, and many rescue relatives.
Wendy Brault
Wendy Brault rescued Lily in 2009 after someone abandoned her in the middle of the night at a Stamford shelter.
Rich and Shari Lee
Rich and Shari Lee adopted Muffy from "The Last Post" in 2008. She just turned 10 in July. She is the only cat we owned in the past 30 years that has ever wanted to be brushed all day long. She is just addicted to getting brushed and since she is longed haired we really don't mind. They have two other adopted cats as well, Sully and Simba.
Rich and Shari Lee
Rich and Shari Lee adopted Simba from the Westport Branch of the Connecticut Humane Society back in 2011. He was a kitten at the time and they wanted their other cat, Muffy, to have a friend. She didn't like him as a kitten and had no mother instinct, so they found another friend for both of them to play with and ended up adopting Sully, a Maine kitten.
Karen J. Harrington
Karen and Donna and adopted Tyler from Ledyard Animal Control on July 19, 2012 when he was 8 weeks old! He just turned 3 years on May 19.
Rich and Shari Lee
Rich and Shari Lee adopted Sully from a friend. They call him "The Moose" because he has grown from a small kitten into such a moose or bowling ball. He can body slam other dogs as well as other cats. Both Sully and Simba love to body slam each other all the time. They are best friends. They pick on Muffy but she still rules the roost.
Melissa Kumnick
This is Melissa Kumnick's rescue pup, Tucker.
Becky Ducat
Sara Robichaud, Miss Windham County's Outstanding Teen, is pictured with shelter dogs Betty Boop the Beagle. Betty was adopted in Killingly from the local shelter.
Becky Ducat
Sara Robichaud, Miss Windham County's Outstanding Teen, is seen here with one of her two shelter dogs, Lexi the Jack Russell/Dachshund. Lexi was adopted from Sadie Mae Foundation in Bolton.
Stuart S. and Joan E. Estra
Savannah was adopted three years ago from the Meriden Humane Society when she was 6 years old. She is a great companion, very loving and very cute. She owns the house; her humans live with her!
Keisha Grant
Meet Smushee and Wookee, NBC Connecticut anchor Keisha Grant's two rescues.
Kathy O'Donnell-Moss
Shane was returned to shelter twice and now enjoys life with the Moss family.
Kellie Martin
Kristen Rizzi
Ruby and Tucker are Kristen Rizzi's two rescue pups. They are 5 months and 4 years old.
Melissa D'Aleo
Charlie the rescue hangs out with his friend Hailey.
Susan White
Susan White adopted this pit bull mix from the Simon Foundation in Bloomfield.
Shannon Wisener
Neptune is Shannon Wisener's rescue pup.
April C.
This is Piper. She was adopted from the Waterford branch of the Connecticut Humane Society two years ago. She was two years old, extremely underweight and a trembling ball of nerves when she was rescued. Two years later, she's a perfectly healthy, gentle and sweet companion. She fiercely protects the backyard from squirrels and skunks (not without its stinky consequences) and her newest duties include snuggling and exploring with her newest family members: 3-month-old twins Jacob and Hannah.
Suki R. Kaplan
Autumn adopted Suki Kaplan's daughter when they visited Protectors of Animals in 2000. Autumn is very shy at first, but loving after she feels comfortable with you. When Suki and her daughter went to POA, they sat with Autumn in the "playroom" and she ran into a corner. A minute later, she ran up to Suki's daughter, jumped on her lap and climbed onto her shoulder, where she sat purring. Now that her daughter is a Peace Corps Volunteer in Madagascar, Autumn sleeps on her bed with "Dawg" the stuffed animal.
Marisol Garcia
untitled This is cookie its a baby kitten we rescued. Enjoy! Marisol garcia
Gloria Milas
Zeke and Oliver both are rescues
Connie Shen
Little Man My husband and I adopted Jack in Dec 2014. We nicknamed him 'Little Man' because this is his favorite sleeping position, in my husband's arms.
Trish Strecker
Hazel Hazel was adopted by our family last fall. As you can see from the picture, she fits right in!
Sandychapdelaine@yahoo.com Samsmom4
untitled This is my sweet boy Sam, rescued from a Pet Smart adoption event last year.
Brook-Lynn
Family Portrait Casual car ride with Brook, Gator, and Mom
Brook-Lynn
Lights Out After a long day at the lake, Gator is all worn out
Debbie Criscuolo
Clear the Shelters We adopted “Napoleon” from Brooklyn, New York. He is a sweet 8 year old Pug who loves to give kisses and cuddle. He now has a “FUREVER” home and part of our family. Joe and Debbie Criscuolo – Northford, CT
Max Reiss/NBCConnecticut.com
This is our perfect dog Lillian (Lilly). She's a dachshund mix from Prattville, AL. We rescued her in September 2011. She loves pop corn, pop tarts, and chasing squirrels. She's never done anything wrong and she's the best looking anything that lives in our home.
Max Reiss/NBCConnecticut.com
This is our perfect dog Lillian (Lilly). She's a dachshund mix from Prattville, AL. We rescued her in September 2011. She loves pop corn, pop tarts, and chasing squirrels. She's never done anything wrong and she's the best looking anything that lives in our home. Here my wife and I are on a winter day.
mary thielke
Bentley My daughter Rescued him from shelter
Debbie Criscuolo
Clear the Shelters Napoleon, age 8, was adopted from Brooklyn, New York. He is a sweet Pug who loves to gives kisses and cuddle. He now has a "FUREVER" home with us and is now part of our family. . Joe and Debbie Criscuolo - Northford, CT
Kaley Ripa
maggie and winston! maggie and winston are 16 week old kittens adopted from the meriden humane society
Kaley Ripa
winston winston was adopted from the meriden humane society
Kaley Ripa
maggie maggie was adopted from the meriden humane society
Karen Ripa
Otto and Reggie Both my babies were rescued and are part of the family!
mark Kalinowski
our two rescues Cadence and Nahji
Sandy Wade
Chester Once abandon and abused, now happy and plump
Susan Pollock
Felix Felix was adopted from a rescue in West Virginia. He had been kept in a crate 24/7 on someone's front porvh before he went to the shelter. He is a total love!
Kate ellmer
Pet adoption We adopted this little guy, Jagger, from a kill shelter a few months ago; how could you resist this face!?
Nanci Malahan
Shelter dog Our wonderful mix breed, big boy was rescued through Good Dog Rescue 8 years ago. He is funny, loyal, smart and loving. A true member of our family
Donna Russo
Fw: rosie ROSIE MAE APRIL 2012 RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTER TENNESSEE DONNA AND FRED RUSSO BRISTOL ROSIE SHOWN DISEMBARKING HER TRANSPORT TO THE NORTHEAST From:
Donna Russo
Fw: FRED AND DONNA RUSSO BRISTOL RUDY HANS AUGUST 2013 RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTER TENNESSEE SHOWN RUDY ARRIVING VIA TRUCK POSING WITH DRIVER BEST BUDS; ROSIE MAE AND RUDY HANS ROSIE MAE WAS RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTER IN TENNESSEE From: Donna Russo Sent: Saturday, August 8, 2015 9:34 AM To:
Donna Russo
Fw: FRED AND DONNA RUSSO BRISTOL RUDY HANS AUGUST 2013 RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTER TENNESSEE SHOWN RUDY ARRIVING VIA TRUCK POSING WITH DRIVER BEST BUDS; ROSIE MAE AND RUDY HANS ROSIE MAE WAS RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTER IN TENNESSEE From: Donna Russo Sent: Saturday, August 8, 2015 9:34 AM To:
Margie Stahl
Clear the Shelters This is Mojo, whom we adopted through the Meriden Humane Society some eight years ago! Meriden Humane Society is the best!
Katrina Cushman
Bryant & Oreo We rescued Oreo from Sadie Mae this past April. Oreo is a great addition to our family.
Desiree Brooks
Our Rescue Dolly We recently rescued Dolly through Soft Landings RD to Rescue and are so blessed with this sweet,playful and loving addition to our family.We will get another to give her a furendly companion. Desiree Brooks Beacon Falls
Laura Stone
Chloe This is Chloe, adopted from Kitty Angels of CT in 2011. A one-in-a-million cat. Friendly, talkative, curious. A perfect companion. Adopt a shelter pet! #CleartheShelters.
Patrice Bowser
Clear the Shelters From: Patrice Bowser
John Spotten
OUR RESCUED PUP'S We have three rescued pup's. The two Chihuahua's, Marty (Short haired male) and Gabby (Long haired female), were rescued here in CT in 2003 and the Jazz (the Lab mix) was rescued front South TX 2010.Regards, John & Carolyn of Ledyard, CT
John Spotten
OUR RESCUED PUP'S We have three rescued pup's. The two Chihuahua's, Marty (Short haired male) and Gabby (Long haired female), were rescued here in CT in 2003 and the Jazz (the Lab mix) was rescued front South TX 2010.Regards, John & Carolyn of Ledyard, CT
Bethany Wilson
Bethany Wilson and her pup Baz are "twinning" in this cute shot.
Betsy Argentieri
Elsa and her buddy Logan are just hanging out.
Brenda Gibson-Pasqualetti
Brenda Gibson-Pasqualetti poses with her rescue pup.
Carlos Polanco
Meet Carlos Polanco and Wawa.
Dan Goodstein
This is Dan Goodstein's furry friend Linus.
Eric Thorgalsen
Eric Thorgalsen poses with his buddy Chance, who recently passed away.
Jesse Miller
Jesse Miller snuggles with his pup Atticus.
Kat Arbacheski
Kat Arbacheski is pictured here with Peanut.
Lindsay Soucy
Mariana Konstantinidis
Nancy Rosado
Nancy Rosado rescued her sweet girl Sasha 15 years ago.
Negra Soberanis
Negra Soberanis adopted Rosita last year and plans to rescue a cat during NBC Connecticut's Clear the Shelters event on Aug. 15.
Sally Senft
Sally Senft rescued Cuddles shortly before Valentine's Day in 2006.
Stephanie Carlson
Stephanie Carlson and Six Poo are royal!
Yvette Skeels
Yvette Skeels and Sirius mean business.
sue peters
11year old Rascal adopted when she was 6 years old
Danielle Bova
Hunter My rescue pup
Robert Fongemie
Sienna I rescued Sienna about 3 years ago, she came from "The Protectors of Animals". Best move I ever made! I also have been volunteering there for just about 4 years! They are a great organization doing GREAT things!
Rich Conway
Lucas Adopted from New Britain Animal Control
Domenica
Clear The Shelters Application: NBC ConnVersion: 3.3.12.0 (fe9
Gary
Smokey from Newington Humane Soc
Gary
Lola from Newington Humane Soc.
Janice Daugherty
Lyle Rescued 2011
Lydia Best
Clear the shelters Cant go wrong with adopting, love both of our rescues ! Radar (brown) rescued 10/26/13 Takoda ( black) rescued 05/15/11 #cleartheshelters Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone
Lydia Best
Clear the shelters Cant go wrong with adopting, love both of our rescues ! Radar (brown) rescued 10/26/13 Takoda ( black) rescued 05/15/11 #cleartheshelters Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone
Jose's girl, now and forever
untitled I adopted Pablo Escobar Meneses-Guzman, formerly , Rex, from the humane society in Newington, CT in Feb. Of 2012. He is the best kitty he loved his clothes and following me around or riding in the car. He's an amazing cat and I am truly blessed to have saved him from the shelter life. Sincerely, Rachel Ann Meneses and Pablo Escobar Meneses Guzman Application: NBC ConnVersion: 3.3.12.0 (fe9
#cleartheshelters My love chewie, rescue of 13 pups (pic below) and his "baby" Romeo. My silly baby loves to play he was enjoying a luau in his festive glasses.
#cleartheshelters My love chewie, rescue of 13 pups (pic below) and his "baby" Romeo. My silly baby loves to play he was enjoying a luau in his festive glasses.
Sara R.
3 rescue havanese Lady Grantham, Clarabelle and Chloe are all rescue pups who fill our life with laughter every day.
#cleartheshelters My love chewie, rescue of 13 pups (pic below) and his "baby" Romeo. My silly baby loves to play he was enjoying a luau in his festive glasses.
Lynne Paino
Shelter dog Gus was adopted from Kentucky Lab Rescue.
Tanessa
Fwd: ClearTheShelters Oops! Just realized I failed to say where these 3 rascals are from! Sorry! (The hazards of emailing @ 4:45am...lol)Tucker, Jaxon & Jersey are all from Willington, CT.Thanks for sharing & caring! You guys are doing a wonderful thing! ♡Best regards,Tanessa CelentanoSent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone-------- Original message --------From: Tanessa
Stephanie Ryan
My shelter puppy This is Miss Brandy Barksalot. She was adopted Sept. 2013 from the Stonington Pound. She is our baby!
Stephanie Ryan
My shelter puppy This is Miss Brandy Barksalot. She was adopted Sept. 2013 from the Stonington Pound. She is our baby!
Annmarie Goyzueta
Clear the Shelters Hi! This is Pulga. We brought him home in 2013 from the shelter in Newington and he was just what our family needed. We can't imagine our lives without him now. Please feel free to use him in promoting Saturday's event! Best,Annmarie Goyzueta
Andrea Obert
Rescued Dogs This is Mosby, a Jack-a-Bee (Beagle and JRT mix) and Morgan, a Bluetick Coonhound, both rescued dogs. They are the loves of our life!!!! We will be urging everyone to help #CleartheShelters on Saturday, my birthday!!!!
Andrea Obert
Rescued Dogs This is Mosby, a Jack-a-Bee (Beagle and JRT mix) and Morgan, a Bluetick Coonhound, both rescued dogs. They are the loves of our life!!!! We will be urging everyone to help #CleartheShelters on Saturday, my birthday!!!!
Jamie Haines
Got our new baby, Willow, today. She is a sweetheart.
Andrea Obert
Rescued Dogs This is Mosby, a Jack-a-Bee (Beagle and JRT mix) and Morgan, a Bluetick Coonhound, both rescued dogs. They are the loves of our life!!!! We will be urging everyone to help #CleartheShelters on Saturday, my birthday!!!!
Andrea Obert
Rescued Dogs This is Mosby, a Jack-a-Bee (Beagle and JRT mix) and Morgan, a Bluetick Coonhound, both rescued dogs. They are the loves of our life!!!! We will be urging everyone to help #CleartheShelters on Saturday, my birthday!!!!
Andrea Obert
Rescued Dogs This is Mosby, a Jack-a-Bee (Beagle and JRT mix) and Morgan, a Bluetick Coonhound, both rescued dogs. They are the loves of our life!!!! We will be urging everyone to help #CleartheShelters on Saturday, my birthday!!!!
Andrea Obert
Rescued Dogs This is Mosby, a Jack-a-Bee (Beagle and JRT mix) and Morgan, a Bluetick Coonhound, both rescued dogs. They are the loves of our life!!!! We will be urging everyone to help #CleartheShelters on Saturday, my birthday!!!!
Cindy Bradley
Patrick Our rescue Patrick loves the beach! Cindy Bradley Burlington CT
untitled These are my three rescues from Wethersfield. Lisa Nicoletti
untitled These are my three rescues from Wethersfield. Lisa Nicoletti
L. B. W.
Rex HelloI just had a meeting with Todd and he requests that you put one of Rex's pictures on for Thursday. We rescued Rex 4 years ago when he was 5 months old. Rex fits in with our family perfectly and is a member of our family. My husband only had pure breeds before Rex and since we've had Rex he said he will only get rescue dogs in the future.Thank you!
L. B. W.
Rex HelloI just had a meeting with Todd and he requests that you put one of Rex's pictures on for Thursday. We rescued Rex 4 years ago when he was 5 months old. Rex fits in with our family perfectly and is a member of our family. My husband only had pure breeds before Rex and since we've had Rex he said he will only get rescue dogs in the future.Thank you!
@DarrenSweeney @NBCConnecticut #cleartheshelters http://t.co/KMbWpmji3z @DarrenSweeney @NBCConnecticut #cleartheshelters http://t.co/KMbWpmji3z
Wilhelm G mail
Waldo and Kylie, North Stonington Hello,Around last Thabksgiving, Waldo was rescued Sent from my iPhoneNow, 10 pounds lighter, he can stand on two paws to reach for that yummy watermelon!!!Kylie, another "Foster fail" from Georgia is awaiting patiently for her piece.
@DarrenSweeney @NBCConnecticut Chance from WeHa was adopted from the Ellington Animal Control #clear @DarrenSweeney @NBCConnecticut Chance from WeHa was adopted from the Ellington Animal Control #cleartheshelters http://t.co/j4TWWMK93R
Tomorrow is #CleartheShelters day! Find a purrfect friend like my rescue kitty! She's queen for a da Tomorrow is #CleartheShelters day! Find a purrfect friend like my rescue kitty! She's queen for a day @NBCConnecticut http://t.co/juyT9G7RE9
@NBCConnecticut Got a head start and adopted this little sweetie on Tuesday night from Hartford Anim @NBCConnecticut Got a head start and adopted this little sweetie on Tuesday night from Hartford Animal Shelter http://t.co/IUPRBZfwBc
@DarrenSweeney @NBCConnecticut in manchester http://t.co/XagLs81qzQ @DarrenSweeney @NBCConnecticut in manchester http://t.co/XagLs81qzQ
“I think that’s really neat that they found each other right when they needed each other,” says Ray’s girlfriend Caitlin. “Seeing them play together is very emotional.”
That’s the potential behind every face in Meriden’s kennels – a second chance.
“We have a lot of loose dogs, abandoned dogs,” says Bacon, “things that people just throw away like a piece of trash. And we have to take them in, we have to evaluate them, we have to pretty much give them a whole new life.”
