Woodbridge Animal Control Set to Take Over Derby

When Derby's Animal Control Officer walked off the job last week with no warning, the city called for mutual aid from Woodbridge and Oxford. Animal control officers from both towns stepped in and covered the city during what was a tumultuous week with accusation of animal neglect, according to the New Haven Register.

Now in possession of six pit bulls from the Derby shelter, Woodbridge is poised to take over Derby's animal control operations - at least for the next two months.

The Woodbridge Board of Selectman last night approved an agreement with the City of Derby to provide animal control services for $3,500 a month for May and June. At the end of the trial period, an annual contract would be agreed upon.

According to Gerald Weiner, Woodbridge Town Counsel, "After that initial period that ends June 30th, either party may choose to terminate the deal within 24 hours."

The proposal, which is the result of Derby's plea for help, still needs to be approved by that city's mayor and board of alderman.

Woodbridge Deputy Police Chief Raymond Stuart said WAC can handle the additional work without having to hire an additional animal control officer. Part-time help will increase from about six to eight hours per week to 19. He calls it a 'win/win' for both Woodbridge and Derby.

The Board of Selectmen last night also approved a $14,300 transfer of funds to Animal Control for repairs to the building including repairs to the kennel, a new hot water hearter and other improvements the building was desperately in need of.

"It will bring the building up to snuff," said ACO Karen Lombardi. The shelter currently has 11 dogs available for adoption. Though the state requires a seven-day wait before impounded dogs are euthanized, Woodbridge does not euthanize healthy dogs.