In Ridgefield, dogs trained to help families unlock life s potential
Alyssa Seidman
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The Collins family, of Ridgefield, were matched with BluePath service dog Chelsea in 2019. The pup is specially trained to provide safety, companionship and opportunities for independence for children with autism.Michelle Brier / Contributed photo
RIDGEFIELD A New York nonprofit recently made use of Main Street to train a pair of pups who will soon become autism service dogs. Penn, a yellow lab, and Zappa, a black lab, spent a sunny afternoon in town learning techniques to keep a child safe amid the distractions of a bustling suburban street.
NEW LEXINGTON â Taxpayers need look no further than the Perry County Dog Shelter to see their tax dollars being put to good use. The no-kill shelter is led by Kerrie Taylor, chief dog warden, at the 1650 Commerce Drive facility. Her two-person staff includes Jen Collins and Kelly Diss.
Taylor has been in her position as chief dog warden for three years. Collins has been at the shelter for two years while Diss joined the crew in March 2020. What is most impressive about Taylorâs tenure is not how long she has been warden; itâs the outstanding job she has done in such a short amount of time.