The Smithtown Animal Shelter Seeks Volunteers

By Maureen Rossi

Despite a tumultuous year for and vocal opposition of the running of the Smithtown Animal Shelter, there is now a plea for volunteers.

There is also a new Facbook page calling for the ousting of Supervisor Vecchio due to his lack of action towards what many critics call a host of problems at the shelter; there is now a call for new volunteers.  They even accuse him of lying about Beatty’s time on the clock.

The Director of the Shelter,  George Beatty has been the target of much the outrage – with people filming him outside the office.   There has been vigorous attempts to discredit the man and throngs coming out to do so.   As we all know, in America one is innocent until proven guilty.  That’s a pill not many critics of the shelter are swallowing at present.

The Vecchio’s Gotta Go Facebook site doesn’t have much up yet except for a few videos which administrators of the site say prove he has lied to the people at meetings regarding Beatty’s personal days, getting paid for being in an “establishment” that had zero to do with work for several hours one day. The Smithtown Animal Control and Adoption Center provides care for lost, stray, and surrendered animals for the residents of Smithtown. Our goal is to reunite lost animals with their owners and find new homes for the unclaimed and relinquished pets.

In an effort to achieve a more positive spin and in an effort to partner with the community the Smithtown  Animal Shelter is presently welcoming both residents and non-residents ages 16 and  up to join its current volunteer program. Whether you’d enjoy taking a pup for a stroll on their walking trails or cuddling up with a lap cat,  they have many deserving pets awaiting your special touch and talents.  If you love promoting animals for adoption, new events are being scheduled that need helping hands and compassionate hearts.

Those making a plea for more volunteers note that spring is finally here, and what better way to begin a new season than to make a difference in the life of a homeless companion animal.  They ask people to please consider volunteering and help support the Smithtown Animal Shelter’s mission to save lives.

To check out some pets awaiting adoption go to the Town of Smithtown Website.   You can also find the following information for residents of Smithtown.

Animal Control Officers
We also enforce the animal control laws of the township and of the New York State Department of Agriculture. The animal control officers respond to residents’ complaints regarding aggressive, stray, injured, barking, or loose dogs and other domestic or wild animals.

Hours
The Animal Control and Adoption Center is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. We are closed on Sundays and holidays.

Donations

Donations would be greatly appreciated. The animals can always use a warm blanket/bed or a few extra treats and toys. Old crates, cat carriers, bowls, sealed storage containers and collars that are still in good condition could also be put to use. Since we have pets of all ages, puppy, kitten, dog, cat, and senior dog food is needed. Above all, canned dog and cat food is needed for our increasing amount of animals.
For additional information and applications to volunteer please contact  Smithtownvolunteers@gmail.com