'Please Do Not Feed the Waterford-East Lyme Shelter Animals'

There is a reason why the Waterford-East Lyme Animal Shelter posts a sign that says ”Notice: Do Not Feed the Animals.” But when Waterford-East Lyme Animal Control Officer Robert Yuchniuk found treats inside the shelter’s fenced-in area, he figured it was time to remind people why the sign is there.

“Most of the treats don’t make it inside the kennel area when they are thrown and then sit just out of reach of the dogs,” he said. ”This causes them to injure themselves as they try to reach under or through the fence to get the treats.”

The treats may also attract insects, vermin and other wildlife, bringing with them the possibility of disease and other problems, Yuchniuk said.

“The animals here have plenty of food and treats to eat,” he said. “Please do not feed the animals at the animal shelter. Thank you.”