Restaurant Donating 'Glasten-Burger' Proceeds To Ailing Glastonbury Police Dog

GLASTONBURY, CT — A local restaurant is coming to the aid of an ailing Glastonbury police dog and the department's canine unit.

"We're proud to announce that proceeds from our Glasten-Burger will now go toward supporting the Glastonbury Police Department's canine unit," the owners of Cotton Hollow Kitchen announced on social media.

That includes helping care for police dog Soleil, who will officially retire on Tuesday due to an incurable disease.

"She has served our community with loyalty and heart — and now it's our turn to give back," Cotton Hollow Kitchen owners said.

Cotton Hollow Kitchen is slated to be closed from June 30th through July 8 "to give the team a well-deserved break." Starting July 9, when the restaurant re-open, diners can order a Glasten-Burger, and help support "the incredible dogs and officers who keep Glastonbury safe," restaurant owners said.

Cotton Hollow Kitchen is located at 840 Main St. in South Glastonbury

Earlier this month, it was announced that Glastonbury police dog Soleil was set to retire this summer after being diagnosed with a serious illness.

Soleil and handler, Officer Neal Cavanaugh, have been on the job together since March 2019. In a heartfelt announcement, Cavanaugh said Soleil has Degenerative Myelopathy, which is essentially canine ALS.

Here is the text of Cavanaugh's announcement:

"I always knew this day would come, but I never expected it to come so soon.

"She’s been more than a working dog, she’s been my partner, my shadow, protector and one of the best parts of every day. Soleil has been diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy and will be retiring from active duty on July 1, 2025.

"Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a slow and heartbreaking disease, similar to ALS in humans, affecting the spinal cord leading to muscle weakness, loss of coordination in the hind limbs, and eventually respiratory failure. There is no cure. Life expectancy after diagnosis varies but is typically several months to a year.Soleil is supported by an outstanding care team: Deb and her team at Wizard of Paws, Dr. Cohen from the Central Hospital for Veterinary Medicine, and Dr. Haviar at Glastonbury Veterinary Hospital.

"Their compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication have made all the difference, and I am endlessly grateful for everything they are doing to help Soleil.Soleil will soon begin a well-deserved retirement at home, with her family. Her days will be filled with sunshine, soft beds, toys and all the love and support we can give. Her spirit, lessons, love and great accomplishments will remain a part of me and this community forever.Since getting Soleil in 2019, she has taught me more than I could ever explain.

"Every shift we shared has been a gift. Although our time is cut short her impact on this community and the surrounding communities will never be forgotten.As I say goodbye to this incredible chapter with Soleil, I know Soleil’s legacy will live on in everything I do and in every step that follows.To our amazing community: Thank you for your constant support of K9 Soleil over the years. It’s been an honor to walk this path together."

The pair was a decorated team.