It’s a Wild World in our own back yards! Many things have changed since I started this job 26 years ago (23 years in Warren). Who could possibly have known that bear, moose (over 100 live in CT), bobcat, coyote, fisher cat, and yes, even the elusive mountain lion would become part of our everyday lives. Add to that the continuous rise in rabid animals!
Given all of that it sounds as though we should pack our bags and move to a less hostile environment. No. Not at all. We can live just fine with our wildlife. While it is “in our own backyards” we can’t live in fear, but simply be aware of our surroundings.
SOME THINGS TO DO AND NOT DO!
* If you feed your dogs and cats outside, bring in the empty bowls at night. All wildlife like dog and cat food as well as small dogs and cats for food!
Keep your pets safe.
* If you have known bear activity at your bird feeder, take the feeder down for several weeks, at least until the bear realizes there is no longer a food source and will move on permanently.
* If the bears are getting into your garbage and you can’t move the cans inside a garage or shed, pour a few capfuls of ammonia inside the bags to mask the odors. DO NOT FEED the bears. Bears will associate people and food and could become aggressive when the food you have been providing for them is not available. They would be considered problem bears and may have to be destroyed. To report black bear sightings please call 860-675-8130.
For immediate assistance with black bears, please call the DEP emergency line at 860-424-3333.
* “Respect” is the key word with all wildlife. Look at it from a distance, take photos and enjoy the special place where we live.
Our canine and feline companions need us to provide everything for them, including necessary vaccines. Did you know 97 cats and 8 dogs have tested positive for rabies since 1991? Cats are third on the list with fox and woodchucks as 4th and 5th. Racoon and skunk have topped the list with over 1,000 each. Access the CT Dept. of Agriculture.com website for more info.
Please vaccinate your pets!! All cats and dogs over the age of three months must be vaccinated against rabies. State fine for failure to do so is $136.00. (Watch for low cost rabies clinics offered each spring.)
Dog licenses are due and renewable each June, per state law, and a current rabies vaccination certificate must be presented to the town clerk in order to purchase the license. Licenses are an inexpensive form of ID and have enabled many dogs a safe return home.
The wildlife is new and exciting to all of us in one way or another. Caution, not fear, is the way to approach it. Continue to enjoy the countryside. Take your daily walks and walk your dog on a leash, of course, but be aware of what’s out there.
For all animal concerns please call me at 868-2870.
Cyndy Brissett, Animal Control Officer
