Crime & Safety

Dog on Death Row in New London

New London Animal Control says "urgent" need to find new home for Reader, who will be euthanized If not adopted over the weekend

A two-year-old dog being housed at the New London Animal Control facility will be euthanized if he is not adopted over the weekend.

Reader, a pit bull, has been classified as “urgent for March 17.” According to a Wednesday post on  Animal Control’s Facebook page, the shelter will be forced to euthanize Reader if he is still at the shelter on Monday.

Asked on Facebook if the dog could be fostered until a new owner is found, the answer was no.

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“It is a liability issue, because the dog is still technically owned by the city, and if the dog did any damage, or bit someone, the city would potentially still be liable,” Animal Control posted in a subsequent comment.

Certified and insured rescue groups could save him, however, as would an adoption.

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Lincoln, a shepherd boxer mix, was also at risk of being euthanized if he was not adopted before Monday. However, Animal Control announced on Thursday evening that he had been adopted.

A previous post said both Lincoln and Reader were released for adoption on Feb. 25 and that there were no plans to euthanize any dogs at that time. Both dogs were found on Feb. 14, Lincoln on Bayonet Street and Reader at the Public Library of New London.

According to information posted by Animal Control, Reader seems to be housebroken with basic house manners, but needs further training on how to behave on a leash. He seems to be good with other dogs, but has not been tested around cats. Animal Control describes him as a “sweet, friendly, energetic, and a goofy guy.”

Animal Control Officer Tonya Kloiber said there was a potential adopter for Reader, but that this person has since backed out.

To inquire about adopting Reader, call Animal Control at 860-447-5231.


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