WILMINGTON, MA — Animal Control Officer Christopher Sullivan met the Wilmington Board of Selectmen on Monday night.
“When I saw the job opening, I decided a change would do me and my family well,” said Sullivan, who worked as a public safety dispatcher in town since 2000.
He assumed the position in February and is currently enrolled in a 12-week training academy, traveling to Brockton every Friday for classes.
Interestingly, contrary to what may be popular belief, Sullivan says he’s much more than just a “dog catcher” and has actually received very few calls regarding dogs.
“I’m learning about all sorts of animals,” said Sullivan, who noted that he has already received calls on a variety of wildlife, from raccoon and chipmunks to geese and birds.
Sullivan pointed to the creation of a Facebook and Twitter account for the Animal Control Department as one of his earliest accomplishment, tapping in to social media when local pets go missing or are found.
Sullivan Receives Positive Feedback
Town Manager Jeff Hull praised Sullivan’s work ethic and dedication to the position.
“It’s refreshing to see Chris’s level of responsiveness,” noting he responds to calls in a timely and professionally manner, which is leaving a favorable impression with residents.
Selectmen Chair Mike Champoux also likes what he’s seeing from Sullivan.
“You’re taking the Animal Control Officer position into the 21st century with technology,” said Champoux. “You’re making the Animal Control Officer a much more visible position in the community.”
Selectwoman Judy O’Connell noted that she had heard a lot of positive feedback on Sullivan, while Selectman Lou Cimaglia thanked Sullivan for visiting with Town Department Heads as a means to introduce himself. Selectman Mike McCoy complimented Town Manager Hull for continuing to fund the position as a full-time, Wilmington-only position, rather than attempting to regionalizing it.
REMINDER: Rabies Clinic This Saturday
The Wilmington Board of Health is holding the Wilmington Annual Rabies Clinic on Saturday, April 2, noon to 2pm, at the Public Buildings Department (30 Church Street).
The clinic is exclusively for pets belonging to Wilmington residents. Dogs must be brought on a leash. Cats must be brought in a carrier. There is a $10 fee per pet.
During the Rabies Clinic, the Town Clerk’s Office will be present to process 2016 Dog Licenses. License costs $10 for spayed/neutered pets and $15 for non-spayed/non-neutered pets. There is a late fee of $15 for all dogs licensed after April 15, 2016.
Questions? Contact the town’s Health Department at 978-658-4298.
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