Dear SB,

In response to what is going on with animal control. We are always in this department striving for improvements in any which way we can. To say that there are any town departments without serious needs are ridiculous, and we have tried here to do the best we can with what we have. We (the asst. aco and myself), have worked in the past to find donations, and even use personal moneys, to provide the dogs/cats with the basics to keep animals safe, secure and as comfortable as they can be due to budget restraints.

Unfortunately, when housing and transportation issues are not handled in a timely manner, but yet, the demographics of the town are changing, as well as the "type" of pets people are choosing to seek out and own, there are safety issues for the officers, the public, and the animals themselves(whether they are well behaved or considered vicious/aggressive). Laws keep changing making even transportation even harder to accomplish as well.

There are many areas that need help in this department, and I am thankful to have help from both town employees, board members, and friends and family to help accomplish the goals that are in critical need at this point as far as safety is concerned.

As some of you know, looking into the department structure sometimes is a result of injury or accident. This is the case in this situation although there were no serious life threatening injuries. It was a good wake up call though for myself, as I have advocated safety in the past, but never thought during this whole struggle to get support from the town financially for this department that "I" might actually get hurt!

I expect to have issues with dogs, I expect to be bitten when dogs are uncomfortable with being placed in a housing environment strange to their own. I also expect that I am safe while driving animals from one destination to another, as well as expectations on a small kennel facility to house animals more appropriately and safely. There are lots of dangerous situations in this job, as many of you know, dogs/cats, are just a small fraction of what we handle in this town. We are prepared for those risks (the officers) and are asking that the large capital items that are needed for everyone's benefits (officer safety, animal safety, public safety) be supplied.

So, to wrap up. We are working hard to address the issues and find solutions with the town. I wish to make sure it is done correctly the first time with the understanding that capital is an issue and has been for the several years I have tried to bring the issues to "the table" so to speak. The department is in need, and with all the support from everyone I have talked to I think the department will do fine. I thank all that have helped during this whole situation of the injury and then the needs to push for the changes. Hopefully we will be up and running again at regular rate very shortly.

Sincerely,
Hilary N. Penlington
Animal Control Officer