Counting sheep

Animal shelter was prepared for ‘others’ Warwick — Last year, the Warwick Humane Society received a grant from the Warwick Savings Foundation to build an “other animal area” for creatures other than cats and dogs that need rescuing or rehabilitation. “The one phrase that stays with me for some strange reason is: if you build it, they will come,” said Suzyn Barron, president of the humane society. Three weeks ago, two sheep wandered off their property and crossed Route 94 in Florida, Barron said. One of them sustained an injury from either falling or being hit. Both were on the side of the road when they were spotted by a humane society staff person. Without hesitation, Kelly Benjamin pulled her car over and immediately secured the standing sheep to a fence, Barron said. She then called the shelter for animal control services. Benjamin and the two animal control officers, Laura Trezza and Kerry Lennon, lifted the sheep into the shelter truck — no easy task. They were transported to a veterinarian and then relocated to the shelter’s new “other animal area” for safekeeping. Miraculously — and unlike what usually happens with dogs — their owner called and picked them up that same day, Barron said. Sadly, one had sustained a severe injury from which she did not recover. “Kelly, Laura and Kerry saved these sheep from further trauma,” Barron said. “They used their animal handling skills to safely rescue the sheep. I am very proud of our staff who never hesitate to help any animal in need. Their dedication, commitment and compassion is commendable and greatly appreciated.” The Warwick Valley Humane Society provides the services of animal control for the Towns of Warwick and Chester and is the impoundment facility for the Town of Tuxedo. The shelter is open seven days from noon until 4 p.m. For more information call 986-2473 or visit www.wvhumane.org.