The Little Guild That Could

A mother and son with their pup last year in Torrington’s Coe Park at a “Pittie Party.”

While Norfolk doesn’t have its own shelter for cats and dogs, The Little Guild of St. Francis in West Cornwall has long filled that void. The fastest-growing animal rescue effort in Connecticut, the Little Guild adopted out 515 animals last year, more than twice its previous record.

The shelter is now offering assistance to help keep animals in good homes, and to prevent owners from having to make heartbreaking decisions when money is tight. Norfolk dog owners who cannot afford basic vaccinations and sterilization surgeries are invited to bring their dogs to the Little Guild’s fifth annual “Pittie Party” on Saturday, June 4 in Torrington’s Coe Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Norfolk resident Katie Vagliano, DVM, a member of the Little Guild’s board of directors, will provide free exams, and distemper and rabies vaccines at the June event. A limited number of vouchers for free spaying and neutering will also be available. All services will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Last year, the Little Guild launched another new service, a pet food pantry, at its pet adoption center in West Cornwall. Pet owners in need of free dog and cat food, and those wishing to donate food, can stop in anytime. The pet pantry is open Wednesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This summer, The Little Guild of St. Francis will host a fundraiser at Husky Meadows Farm on Saturday, July 16. The event, which will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and an auction, will allow Norfolk residents to get more involved in supporting the shelter. For information about any of these events, or how can you support the Little Guild’s programs, email littleguild.board@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of The Little Guild.