The Little Guild
The Little Guild of St. Francis, which for more than half a century has worked to care for and rehome animals in need, has planned a busy year of fundraising as it prepares for a multi-year project to build a bigger and better facility.
A number of events are on the immediate horizon, with more to follow later in the summer. First in line is a screening this Saturday of The Cat Rescuers, a film that follows the activities of four cat lovers who search the streets and alleys of Brooklyn to save feline lives. As the film unfolds it shows the skill, resilience and humor these passionate people bring to their challenging work, and how it has changed their lives.
The event will be held from 3 to 6PM at the Cornwall Library, 30 Pine Street, Cornwall CT.
The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the film’s director, Rob Fruchtman, and one of the rescuers. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets are $10.
On May 18, the Great Falls Brewery Co. in Canaan will go to the dogs when it participates in Hops and Hounds from noon until 11PM. The brewery will donate the proceeds from one full keg on this date to benefit the animals of the Little Guild. Little Guild dogs will be on-site from noon to 3PM.
The Little Guild will pull out all the stops June 21 and 22 when it holds the Great Country Mutt Show and benefit dinner. The dinner, hosted by Greg and Natalie Randall in the elegant RT Facts Gallery located at 8 Old Barn Road in Kent, will be held from 6 to 9PM on June 21. Tickets are $150.
The first Great Country Mutt Show takes place on the Cornwall Green the following day from 11AM to 2PM. From “the waggiest tail” to “the most spots” to “the highest jumper,” there will be multiple chances for beloved dogs to take to the ring. And while those rings are in action there will be many other activities on the green. All dogs are welcome to participate. There is no entry fee or admission charge although donations will be gratefully received.
The event chairs are Bunny Williams and John Rosselli, with co-chairs Robert Couturier and Jeffrey Morgan.
With the excitement of the Country Mutt Show in the past, the Little Guild will turn its attention to the serious business of ensuring the well-being of local animals as it holds it sixth annual Pittie Party, a free vaccine clinic set for June 30 from 9AM to 1PM at Coe Park in Torrington.
Registration opens at 9AM with the clinic starting at 10. One hundred dogs will be vaccinated for rabies and distemper on a first come, first served basis. No preregistration is available.
Participants must bring the animals’ medical records and dogs must be securely leashed on leads of six feet or shorter. Retractable leashes are not preferred. Muzzles are encouraged for dogs that react to other dogs. Free spay/neuter vouchers may be available depending on funding.
The Pittie Party, which initially reached out to pit bull owners, is now open to all dogs.
