Julie Loparo — president of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates — loves dogs.
She loves dog stories too. Here’s one she shares with “06880” readers:
Winslow Park may not be the place where everybody knows your name.
But they do know your dog’s name.
Regulars at the downtown park are quick to share stories about their own dogs, and answer questions about yours.
When a dog gets distracted by a squirrel or another canine buddy, the group watches closely until it’s reunited with its owner.
Just another day at Winslow Park.
Several weeks ago however, the crowd discovered a little one that’s a poster dog for the ever-growing number of abandoned dogs (and cats) in Connecticut.
A senior, blind long-haired chihuahua was found in a beat-up dog carrier on a park bench. How she got there, and how long she’d been there, were mysteries.
But clearly, she’d been left there.
Westport Animal Control quickly responded. She was transported to Schulhof Animal Hospital for evaluation and care.
Once stabilized and treated for a possible flea situation, she was brought back to Animal Control.
It became clear she was not keen on the food being served (though it’s very high quality dog food). A Westport Animal Shelter Advocates volunteer prepared healthy meals of organic meats and vegetables. The little one liked that.
Misty Mae
On Wednesday, WASA officially adopted “Misty Mae” into their foster family.
With the help of Schulhof’s staff, WASA will bring her up-to-date on vet care, with vaccinations, and detailed blood and dental work. They’ll consult with eye specialists, to see if she’s a candidate for cataract surgeries.
They’ll also search for a new, loving home for Misty Mae.
She’s sweet, quiet, and 10 to 12 years old. She has not been reactive to other dogs, though additional testing will be done. She loves to be brushed and cuddled. She’s a lap dog in every sense of the word.
For additional information about Misty Mae, call 203-557-0361, or email wasa1@optonline.net.
To donate for her vet care, click here (and note that you are contributing for Misty Mae).
Winslow Park is definitely the place where everyone knows your dog’s name.
And Westport is where Animal Control, WASA and Schulhof all come together to help a dog named Misty Mae.