New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare Society Incorporated

The New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare has helped so many animals in various ways. The dogs and cats that come in to the shelter many times come from horrible conditions, may not have had the care needed for various reasons, or need to be relinquished by individuals who may no longer care for them. Although there are many rescues that do the same, I feel like this small shelter works very hard with getting these deserving animals the homes and families they need. Taking care of them as if they were their own!

I am been both a volunteer and also an adopter of many wonderful dogs and cats at NFSAW. The staff truly cares for each of the wonderful animals there and I love volunteering here. This is truly a special place .

As an animal cross poster open your eyes this place is fake there is a long recent article on them how they are liars and murders. Wake up this place is terrible. Google it learn please

We had to surrender our 3 year old husky, Cleo when our home was repossessed and we were forced to move into a hostel. Cleo was very loved by our family, he was absolutely beautiful. We'd had him for 2 years and rescued him from an abuse situation... but he was not a friendly dog. He was fearful of people and never really recovered from his abusive treatment. He would lash out without warning even at people sitting down ignoring him, we had to leave a trailing leash on him at all times. He was a lovely dog when he was calm but he could change in an instant. He never managed to bite any of us but he tried, and when we went to see him in the shelter he had gotten even worse and was charging us in his kennel.

The only other shelter in the area turned Cleo down and told us to have him put down. But these people gave him a chance, they worked with him for a week but he just couldn't handle the noise and stress of the shelter. We wanted to take him back, but had nowhere to put him, and they couldn't get away with placing a dog like that into someone's home. We went in when they said he was due to be put to sleep and my husband went in with him. They were very gentle and explained plainly why they had to do what they did.

We wish things could've gone better for us and Cleo, but at least when he met his end, he was among caring, friendly people who gave him a chance where others wouldn't.

Having just lost our precious boxer/pitt Pokey May 5th, we were despondent...he was the most loving and unique and smart animal..and funny! How could we EVER think about replacing him. or get over him? There could never be another like him..my crying was non-stop.....THEN my husband got up one Saturday morning two weeks after our loss, and went over to our neighborhood animal shelter, three miles away, because he heard that some new dogs came in, one of them a boxer mix...he saw the pup, but when he mentioned we had just lost our beloved pitt mix, the eyes of the shelter workers lit up! "Do we have a dog for YOU!" should have been the caption...! They asked my husband if he would be intereeted in a lovely pitbull who had been there for six months now, who was beautiful and loving and funny...but had no takers (people so wrongly fear the breed!)...Jay saw Zeus, and that was that! He was PERFECT..so much like our Pokey, but his OWN dog, too! Jay came home, woke me up, and dragged me and my visiting granddaughter back to the shelter (I had a fear of going to shelters..to me, they are places of desperation and misery and my heart breaks..Pokey was a rescue, but my daughter brought him TO me..I can't go to places like that..they give me nightmares!
Well, was I surprised when I walked into the New Fairfield/Sherman shelter..clean, cheerful and more like a boarding kennel, full of personable and knowledgable people, whom you can tell personally care for and love each animal they shelter...Zeus had been socialized, excercised, TRAINED to do tricks, and was in wonderful physical and mental shape..he had been loved! It was written all over him! True..he was a bit energetic from long hours being penned, but he is trying very hard to please us, and is WONDERFUl with other dogs at the dog park (they have a pen at the shelter where they allow the dogs to play with each other at times, too..it makes a big difference!) NOBODY can believe he came from a shelter, he is so calm and friendly and well-behaved...some of it is just Zeus being ZEUS, cos he IS a great dog that just needed a chance, but a LOT Of it is the loving care and attention he received at this shelter...I give it an A-PLUS!! They even gave Zeus his own web page to help publicize his situation, and many times when we walk him around time,strangers will say, "Is that ZEUS? I saw him in the Citizens News!" They really try hard to place their dogs...and care about each and every one of them (OH YEAH..they have a nice room full of kitties, too!)
SO..if you are 'Shelter-Shy" like I am..this is the place for you! It isn't really Animal Control; it's Animal Rescue! Even the Animal Control officer, who must have been the one to pick up the brown stray pitbull roaming New Fairfield at Christmastime, came tosay "goodbye" to Zeus as we took him off to his forever home! A more loving and caring bunch will be hard to find...(I won't name the other shelter I went to this past month, but those poor dogs...don't have a chance. It is never opened when people can get to see the dogs, and the animals look so sad and desperate...barking and crying and jumping in their own poop...not opened weekends when people can go with their families to find a pet to love...they are the ones you see in the commercials. I still have nightmares of that visit and want to go get another one from there..but I haven't gotten up the fortitude to make that trip yet..!)
.PLEASE don't be afraid of this shelter in New Fairfield..it is as pleasant an experience as you can ever possibly have for a situation like this! Even if you don't adopt a pet..make a contribution! They do great things over there! I wish I could post a picture of Zeus hugging Tony, a volunteer shelter worker, before we took him home May 20th...he is the picture of love and happiness...we have a lot to live up to here! LOL! (Not a problem..don't worry! LOL!) LOVE THIS PLACE!!!

NFSAWS is an excellent rescue organization. They are a vital part of our community. The pets are loved and well cared for. We adopted our Millie dog and have referred many of our friends to this rescue. All are happy with their service but, most of all, their love for the animals they shelter.

We adopted our fantastic red bone coonhound through this wonderful group. She has been a great addition to our family. The staff at the shelter was really great, worked with our family, and helped us find just the right dog for us.

My husband and I adopted our wonderful dog, Muffin, from NFSAWS about a year and a half ago. We went to several shelters before NFSAWS and were not happy. At NFSAWS they treat their animals incredibly well. I was so happy to see all the dogs playing together in a fenced in area at the shelter. It's great to see the dogs be able to truly run around, play, and most importantly, become well socialized with other dogs. We got to meet 3 different dogs on the day we first visited NFSAWS; all the dogs, regardless of age, that we met were very well behaved, which made picking just one a difficult choice. In the end, we got our Muffin who is easily the most fabulous dog we have ever had! :-)

We adopted our third dog from NFSAWS and could not have had a better experience, I am so lucky we found them. They are not interested in just pushing their animals out the door to any available home; they want you and your pet to be the right match, a forever match. It's a clean and safe environment for the animals staffed by absolutely wonderful employees and volunteers who really care, sets the gold standard for animal rescue!

We were looking to add a dog to our family. Once we got in touch with nfsaws they were so helpful finding a dog who would fit into our lifestyle. They are a wonderful organization who rescues animals from the high kill shelters and gelps them find the home and life they deserve. They are truly wonderful volunteers.

Me and my family are always welcomed into a clean, safe and friendly environment. We get we need on
the animal we are adopting, including a file with history, general info, coupons... They are very friendly and the animals are very well taken care of and happy. The animals are clean and up to date and ready to be loved. I will continue to support NFSAW always and when I am ready for another, I will get the help and suggestions I need to make a perfect choice.

I come from a long line of "rescuers". I have learned that there is a right way, and a wrong way to every well intentioned rescuer. The NFSAWS know how to do it the right way. Their thorough background checks, wonderful customer service, and up to date use of websites and social media made adopting our dog one of the most positive experiences of my life. A year after adopting my dog, I still feel connected to this wonderful group of people through facebook and emails. It warms my heart how much much this organization truly cares about animals.

NFSAW is fantastic! We adopted a puppy from them in June. You could see the connection and love they had for him. Once we met him, he never left us as we filled out paperwork. All the dogs were playing in the back of the shelter in a big beautiful yard. The yard had all different terrains to soot the needs of all the different breeds. He was able to take home his favorite toy, which turned into his security blanket. We got a call a few months later checking to see how he was doing. They seemed extremely please to hear that he adjusted instantly. They asked to send pictures as they would love to see how he's grown. Call us crazy, but from time to time we'll ask him where Sherri is and he perks up and his eyes sparkle. Although we are from MA, we recommend NFSAW to everyone who is looking to adopt. Defiantly worth the 5 hour drive. Thanks NFSAW!

Our family has always adopted our pets even when I was a child. So I've had lots of experience with various animal shelters. A few months after we lost our two senior cats, my husband and I decided we were ready for a new family. We began searching and were not happy with what we found. All of the shelters we visited had way too many animals, were dirty, smelled and many of the animals were sick. Then we went to NFSAWS and it was amazing. The shelter was clean without that horrible odor. The animals were in good health and obviously treated well. Staff and volunteers were very friendly and helpful and loved the animals. Our oldest son is a vet tech and he was very impressed with NFSAWS. So much so that he has adopted two of their cats also. NFSAWS is the was all shelters should be and I highly recommend you visit them to adopt your new family member.

Great friendly people. Fair adoption process. A lot of value affered to the new family. Highly recommend!

I never told the NFSAWS this but, our adopted Jack Russell, "Jack" had it so good there that he tried to jump out of our car within 2 minutes of leaving so he could go back there. True story: Jack was in the back seat with my daughter and he inadvertently lowered the window with his paw...then jumped out!! We were beside ourselves, with cars screeching to a halt and our little (well, actually, our fat) Jack sitting in the middle of the road with traffic stopped all around him. My daughter was so upset, thinking that he loved the shelter so much that he didn't want to come to his new home. Seven months later, he won't leave our sides- ever. He is so wonderful and we can clearly see that his experience with NFSAWS only enhanced his true JR personality. He was very well cared for there and we are very appreciative.

Used to work as a volunteer training dogs that they had a better chance beeing adopted at New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare. I trained other volunteers too. I was very impressed how they ran this shelter (worked in New York too). The facilities were very clean. Their screening test really impressed me. It is so important to find a permanent home for an animal which had a tough life before. We had cases where animals got adopted after years beeing with us. That always made us very happy. And we got lots of letters back how happy the new parents were with their newly adopted animals.
We adopted two cats from there too. Misty is still with us now for 8 years. Relocated to Switzerland and really miss my work and everybody I worked with.

I ADOPTED A CAT,TWINKLETOES.SHE IS A SENIOR CAT.SHE ALWAYS WAS IN A HOME AND WHEN HER OWNER GOT PLACED IN A NURSING HOME,SHE NO LONGER HAD A HOME.SO,I TOOK HER HOME ALL 22LBS. OF HER.SHE VERY QUICKLY BECAME A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY,AND IS REALLY HAPPY HERE.THE SHELTER IS ALWAYS CLEAN AND NEVER HAS "THAT SMELL" TO IT.THE MANAGER DOES A REALLY GOOD JOB,AND KEEPS COMING UP WITH NEW IDEAS TO HELP WITH TAKING ANIMALS AND GETTING THEM ADOPTED.SHE REALLY HAS A LOVE FOR THE ANIMALS AND ALWAYS GOES THE EXTRA DISTANCE FOR THEM.ALL OF THE STAFF THERE ARE ALL SO CARING.THE SHELTER IS LUCKY TO HAVE SUCH A CARING STAFF.

My husband began looking online for a dog as soon as we got married. Our most important criteria was a pooch who would get along with our ornery cat. We inquired about a few dogs from various shelters, but it was hard to get information on whether they were good with cats, and the last thing we wanted to do was bring a dog home only to have to return him. Baker was a little smaller than the dog we pictured ourselves adopting (we were thinking of a huge black mutt), but his photos were sweet, and the video that NFSAW included was adorable. Sherri answered all of my husband's questions promptly and honestly, and we completely trusted her. We drove up to meet Baker on a Saturday, and it was love at first sight. We wanted another week to get ready for him, and Sherri understood and kept him for us, and she also answered my many e-mails asking more questions about what he ate, what he liked to do, etc. When we picked him up the following Saturday he had just had a bath, and we got a folder with all his health information as well as the story from his transfer up from Tennessee and contact information from his "rescue mom." We sent Sherri photos of Baker we took that day, and she seemed genuinely excited and happy to hear from us. Nearly two years later, we still follow the shelter, support it financially when we can, and are so grateful that they took such good care of our dog in the few weeks before we discovered him. Baker had a hard start, but he's the best dog ever, and I know that NFSAW was instrumental in helping him get a fresh start.

I really appreciate how active the members of the New Fairfield shelter are in raising public awareness for animals not only in its own shelter, but in rescue sites all over the country.

Though small in physical size when compared to other shelters in the area, NFSAWS' impact is tremendous for the caring staff, volunteers, and adopters associated with it.
Not only does the Shelter provide the necessary attention and medical care (as well as spaying and neutering) that the animals deserve, but it also provides concientious placement of family with pet - so important for a successful pet adoption! Potential adopters are viewed as more than paying customers, and the result is a better outcome for both pet and owner (the thank-you letters, photos, and notes from adopters - sometimes long after the adoption - substantiate this).
We are all fortunate to have such an organization in our community!

The men and women who work for the shelter are the most dedicated and loving people. The animals are loved and very well taken care of.

The staff at New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare Society is 100% dedicated to the animals in their care. I always know my donations will be put to good use. Over the years I have donated blankets and towels but recently they've begun taking print cartridges through Staples. What a great idea! This way people who don't live near by but still want to support them may do so easily. I will continue to send my cartridges to Staples in their name for as long as they keep up the great work they do!

I have been a board member for about four years now. All of our board members care very deeply about our animals and care very deeply about our shelter. We have an excellent staff at the Shelter who like us are animal lovers. We take PRIDE in our sheter. Our volunteers are excellent and very giving people.

This organization has volunteers who are very dedicated to helping the animals in need in their area, and these people also are very fun and welcoming to newcomers. I participated in a fund raiser last spring, just as I was visiting a relative who is involved with the organization. I was welcomed and had a fun time, all the while knowing it was for a good cause.

I volunteered here when I was in my senior year of high shool with my friend Kellie. We chose NFSAW for our SEE project so we could help animals and raise money for the ones in the shelter. The staff was amazing on helping us with our project, and let us come anytime to fulfill our community service hours. They also introduced us to all the animals and let us play with them. We enjoyed seeing the animals, and doing our bake sale that raised over $200 dollars for the shelter. Wish college wasn't so crazy or we would come and vist again.

I am very appreciative of all that the NFSAW does for the needy animals and our community. Not only do they help with the welfare of uncared for or lost animals, but they also contribute to their community through other recycling activities for cell phones and computers. You can find the donation boxes at various places around town in New Fairfield and Sherman. I am very thankful to the NFSAW, as I know that the volunteers work very hard, dedicating their own personal time for an important cause. It takes a lot of work to organize and manage the various fundraising and community events required to help the NFAW shelter survive, such as the Holiday Boutique at the Senior Center and the wine tasting event held in Sherman.

After being involved for many years, volunteering as a crafter.
I was asked to be on the Board for NFSAW. What a honor!
I knew making the crafts for the "Christmas Boutique" gave me joy.......but most of my joy came from being able to raise lots of money for these precious animals.

I totally enjoy what I do for the NFSAW.
The people I have met along the way.... I now consider as FRIENDS.

We adopted our first family dog there. The workers were very knowlegeable and helped us pick the perfect dog for our family. We will definatly go back there when we are looking to expand our family again. Great job!

My family has adopted three cats from NFSAW. The shelter itself is one of the nicest facilities I have ever seen and the staff is wonderful. I was a little afraid to visit the first time, as I was concerned the cats would be sad and in cages. Instead, we found a beautiful, light filled room with cats running freely all over. Much better than living in a stone wall in the cold. Thanks to all the volunteers that take such good care of the cats and dogs lucky enough to end up there.

NFSAW is a top notch facility staffed by people devoted to providing the highest quality care for the animals in their charge. They truly have the animals' best interests at heart, which has been evident with every interaction I have had with them over the years, including as a visitor, adoptor and donor. NSAW is truly a benefit to the community and the unfortunate animals lucky enough to find their way here, making NFSAW very deserving of your support. We are fortunate indeed to have NFSAW in our town.

I am a citizen o New Fairfield and I have know for years the wonderful work that the shelter does. Our town is better because of the work that the staff and volunteers do.

We recently adopted a 1 year old Golden retreiver/Labrador mix and we couldn't be happier with NFSAWS. They did a through background check on us (as they should!) including calling our vet to make sure that the pets we have currently were up to date on all of their Vaccines. They allowed us to bring our 2 dogs to meet the new dog before we made our final decision to adopt. They provided us with his full medical history as well as the frontline and heartworm medicine that he needed. It was obvious from the start that they really cared deeply about "Kovu" and were dedicated to placing him in a stable, loving home.
We are thrilled with the level of commitment that NFSAWS shows to the welfare and well-being of the animals in their care. We love our new pup and can't thank them enough for helping to bring us all together!

We just recently adopted our first dog from NFSAWS and couldn't be happier! The shelter is a great place and their volunteers work so hard to take care of the animals and help adopters through the process and beyond. They work with Companion Pet Rescue, another wonderful organization, to rescue needy dogs and find them homes and I couldn't be more grateful that all their hard work brought me my wonderful pet!

My husband and I attended the bowling tournament which we enjoyed very much as well as the wine tasting, where we bought numerous bottles of wine which we still have at home. Both events were told to us by Suzanne Glynn and we are greatful that we can help out the pets at the site. We would definitley love to do something again to help out.
We adopted Zeus, our black lab, whom we love verymuch. He is like the child we never had, and yes, he is very spoiled! Suzanne told us of a stray cat she found that was older and was able to place it quickly in thehome of a cat owner, when others felt that it was not possible to place.

We adopted our puppy Louie from NFSAWS on Mother's Day of 2010. We started our search online, and made many phone calls to the shelter to ask various questions. They were so friendly and answered everything.
When we arrived at NFSAWS, they shared in out excitement to meet the puppies, and didn't rush us at all. We left that day with Louie, and could not be happier.

We adopted our dog, Vixen, almost 2 years ago now & my husband & I couldn’t be happier!
The staff are extremely kind & loving to all there residents. & work hard to get them into a loving & caring home.

I am friends with Suzanne Poscich Glynn who has told me the most wonderful stories of animal rescue and foster care during her tenure as a volunteer at the NFSAW. As a Dog and Cat person myself, it makes me really happy to see people like Suzanne, a busy professional during the day preparing our youth for life as a teacher spend her precious spare time to help these beautiful animals that are in need of TLC, a meal, a place to sleep and eventually a permenant home. It makes me feel guilty that I don't have the time to get involved myself, but seeing the passion in which she brings to our discussions about the animals that have been saved from abuse and abandenment, has had a profound impact on me personally. The work that Suzanne and the other volunteers do at NFSAW is pure selfless love and kindness.

Thanks guys - Monty Nebinger

I personally give to many charities and the one I love the most is New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare. Of which I have attended many fundraisng events and donated funds, the best I can afford to do. It is wonderful to see the community rally together to support these orphaned animals. The most recent event I attended was at the New Fairfield Senior Center where there were art & crafts, baked goods, art by local artists/residents, and many auction items that I spent/donated my money to. Not to mention the amount of volunteers and the incredible job all the volunteers did. Unfortunately, it never seems that there are enough funds raised for the NFSAW to address all that's needed to support these orphaned animals & help find them homes. I certainly hope that the NFSAW is fortunate enough to be the recipient of this very generous grant. Thank you.

John Glynn
New Fairfield, CT 06812

We adopted our dog from NFSAWS and have been watching on Facebook all the happy dogs being adopted from there. Our experience was first rate and we think they are the best.

I have been involved with New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare Society for over a year now. During this time, I have met some amazing people... those who volunteer their time to work with our homeless pets, those who organize and work at our fundraisers and our very generous friends who donate money and supplies. What a great organization!

Who is better than the NFAS? The humane caring and loving of the staff there to the animals is unique. The animals look happy even in their circumstance. If it weren't for their abundant support I would be able to volunteer there on the weekends, but they have too many volunteers. That says it all for me. You go NFAS! Your community loves you and all your paws!

Joining the board over one year ago, was one of the best decisions I have made. Not only are all of the board members, employees and volunteers caring, giving and enthusiastic but we all have the same goal and that is to help care for animals and make sure they find their forever homes. It is a true reward to know that every single thing that we do to for the shelter, even if we are just talking about it in conversation, is benefiting animals in need. It humbles me to say that I am a part of this magnificent team of individuals and seeing the way that all the animals are cared for is truly life changing.

The people there are extremely pleasant and helpful, and truly care about the pets they have been entrusted with. The shelter is clean and both of our experiences there were extremely positive.

This animal shelter has an amazing group of volunteers who are such dedicated people. Each year they spend countless hours which extend into months working together on various crafts for their annual fund-raising boutique. They love the animals and tend them well. Their generosity and selflessness should be congratulated by all the community.

What a wonderful organization! My mother adopted a dog from there and all of the volunteers were helpful, kind and hones. The facilities are clean and well kept and all of the animals are so well cared for! The dog my mother adopted - Princess - is a hound mix. She was free b/c both Princess and my mom are "seniors". Princess is a wonderful, sweet dog, and my mom adores her.

I have seen the New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare Society in operation, from the vantage point of public perception and information. I read about their interesting events in the newspaper (like wine tastings and dinners) and look at the pictures of pets up for adoption, who need a forever home, some with special needs. That reminds me: years ago, my family fostered pets for the group before they had a shelter. We ended up adopting a scroungy stray cat that we fostered through kitten-birth. She ended up being one of the loves of our lives, so happy to have her in our family.

I have seen the enthusiastic volunteers outside stores in Sherman and New Fairfield at bake sales, and my mother-in-law waits avidly for their Holiday Boutique to come around. She is also in their ranks of bakers, assembling tasty treats to tempt humans to buy. I am always happy when she buys me something there. It tastes better because you're helping animals.

This organization has a bright, clean selter, always presentable to the public and serves the public well!

The New Faifield Sherman Animal Welfare Society is a premier volunteer organization serving our two towns for the greater good. The Society has exemplary standards for animal rescue, compassionate care and humane education. The founders were a very few (what would be now called "cutting edge") local folks who saw a need and fulfilled it. Over the ensuing decades, the several presidents who followed were dedicted to saving pets, with one hundred per cent devotion.

The organization has a history of rising to the occasion, appointing an Advisor Board in the 1980's to raise the money to build an animal shelter facility, which was accomplished by seven years of intense multi-faceted publicity efforts, successful grantswriting and many fundraising efforts such as an annul advertizement Journal and raffles (offering items such as dinners, lunches and breakfasts for two and gorgeous hand made quilts designed by NFSAWS members). Advisory Board members travelled on many interstate trips to see existing shelters to gather information to create the best possible facility that could be done at that time. Extensive research was conducted to find and apply for appropriate grants. The Pet of the Week started at this time, with apperances of dogs and cats in The News Times,the regional newspaper. The local newspaper, the Citizen News, also cooperated with publicity by printing frequent articles submitted by the Society on interesting topics such as local spay neuter statistics which were compiled from public records, an article about the Humane Society of the United States' Humane Education Center (located in Connecticut, and the announcement of a national humane eduction award won by a past president.

The organization has a unique and much-anticipated annual fundraising boutique, revealing the artistic side of the crafters who work hard all year to fashion Christmas tree decorations and other holiday and pet products The orgainization has a modern flair, joining the internet age for even better communication.

It is a safe, clean, kind, good group for a stray dog or cat to be rescued by. and the group holds the promise of contiuing to rise to the occasion as the future. unfolds

My grandfather adopted Alison and Sylvester from the shelter about 6 months ago and they have made such a difference in his life. He is 94 and lives alone his 2 cats are his world! Everyone was wonderful when we picked them up and they always check to see how they are doing! Great place to adopt from!!!!

I started to volunteer at the Shelter a few years ago. Since then, I've been amazed at the care and love shown by the staff to the animals who are lucky to find a temporary place to stay. I say "lucky" because these cats and dogs are safe and cared for before they find permanent homes that are perfect for them. I love volunteering at the NFAW Shelter because of the good work that is done there.

Last November we were fortunate to adopt a kitten from NFSAW. We had never adopted from them before. We fell in love with this little kitten as his picture was posted on Facebook in which our family was able to see. When we arrived, we were greeted warmly, and ushered into the room to spend some time with the kittens. We found Sherri and her staff very open, caring, friendly and really spent the time speaking to us while we were filling our adoptive application out. We also found the shelter to be very clean and organized. The adoption process went smoothly and we were able to pick up our newest family member after he was neutered. I cannot say enough wonderful things about NFSAW! These homeless animals are fortunate to have them as their temorary home until they find their forever home and have such wonderful volunteers who care and love the dogs and cats.

I grew up in New Fairfield and I am so happy that I have been able to become a donor to this valuable organization. I know how dedicated the staff and volunteers are to caring for the animals because my mother is a volunteer there. She keeps me updated on each "adoptee" and shares the enthusiasm of everyone who works there to find the perfect family for such perfect pets. They work hard on fundraising and have a reputation in the community for steady bake sales and drives. This is an organization that has put in steady effort for years and I urge potential donors to consider investing in the great work of NFSAWS.

I became involved in this organization after adopting several dogs from NFSAW over the years. The care with which animals are placed is amazing. They know their animals well and can create the perfect match to meet the client's lifestyle, family, and living situation. As a result, I volunteered for many years at the annual holiday craft fair. While I wholeheartedly agree with the other reviews, what sets it apart is the fact that they work tirelessly to educate the public on the humane treatment of animals in a variety of ways - from newspaper articles to working with students and staff in the schools. As a teacher in the local school district, I engaged in deep discussions with my students around issues such as puppy mills and animal testing. What better way to change the world than to start with the future pet owners of America? Knowledge is power...

I have volunteered at other Shelters and I find the NFSAW is a wonderful Shelter. Their dedication and going beyond what is reqired for their animals is a daily practice. I feel there is no other shelter more deserving to receive this reward.
My only observation of the shelter that I feel needs inprovement is that, they leave the animal alone for 16 hours a day. A lot of times they have puppies, that is too long for them, especially when the employees leave earlier. They need to really look into that situation.
Maybe this award can help them hire a part-time evening employee.
I really hope they win, they truely are a great Shelter.

I have had the pleasure of working with the New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare society for several years. Their annual holiday event pulls in a good crowd and is quite anticipated. The hundreds of hours required to prepare for, plan, set up, and break-down speak to the dedication of all parties involved.

It is an honor to work with such dedicated and warm-hearted people.

In August of 2010, my husband and I adopted Lucy, a bluetick coonhound, who was rescued from an unfortunate situation and through a series of events found her way to us. New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare helped organize her transport across 8 states and we adopted her sight unseen. NFSAW is a highly professional, compassionate and dedicated group that provides an amazing service. From the minute we completed the application, we were felt like extended family with NFSAW and wanted to be able to do more for them. We are glad to be able to offer our home and hearts as foster parents and are excited to return the favor that someone once provided for our beloved pup.

I am proud to be a board member and volunteer at NFSAW. We are a small shelter but have so many wonderful friends who not only support us finanacially but devote countless hours to caring for the many cats and dogs that find a safe haven at our shelter. Along with our wonderful volunteers we are very fortunate to have an experienced staff who are dedicated to finding the perfect home for each and every homeless dog and cat that walks through our doors.

We adopted mama to replace our cat Peppy who had passed on in Feb of 2010. A couple of month later we adopted a second cat Marley. They have been great companions for us.

I adopted my cat Maddy from The New Fairfield Animal Shelter in July 2008 and I love her to pieces. I had such a wonderful adopting experience there as well. Sherri is such a wonderful person and the animals there are so well cared for. I plan to adopt a puppy from her this summer and am so excited to work with her again. I know she will help find me the perfect puppy!

The people who work/volunteer at NFSAWS are unbelievably dedicated to saving animals. They spend hours rescuing caring for and placing animals in loving homes. What would happen to these pets if they did not do this work? I'd hate to think of it!

Sherri Ruffler and her staff are absolutely amazing and have a wonderful heart for rescue dogs. The shelter absolutely works with each adopter to make sure they find the best match for both the family and the dog, which is so important! The dogs get tons of attention and love while they wait for their new families, and it is a happy place to visit to see these dogs be cared for and then go on to their forever homes with wonderful, caring families!

I have been both a volunteer and a client of the NFSAW and in both capacities was so very pleased by the level of care given to both the animals and the clients served. The animals are treated with affection and love. Many have never had humane treatment before. The clients are treated with respect and courtesy. I fully support this wonderful organization which is a benefit to our communities.

NFSAW is an amazing place, with a very caring staff. They were thorough and competent in the way they helped us in choosing the right dog for us. They follow through after and it's very obvious how concerned and invested they are in their animals! A great place!

We would only adopt from this place in the area. The staff are so caring and do such a good job and I have to admit.. I am bias as we got our best friend from here too :)

This little shelter tucked into the hills of New Fairfield is a real gem. They care so compassionately about their pets and place them very carefully with appropriate homes. Their volunteers are professional, friendly, and helpful. We always contribute to their fundraising efforts. Our next pet will be adopted from this great organization.

The people who work here are so friendly and personable. I had been looking for a dog for a few months and some of the other shelters weren't friendly or even helpful. I got my mutt from NFSAWS about a year ago and couldn't be happier with her. They also recommended a vet, who is very professional and patient. I would adopt from them again.

We adopted a dog from New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare several years ago. If I was still in that immediate area, I would have adopted another from them, however I have moved from there. I remember the place being clean but most importantly, how much each worker or volunteer genuinely cared for every animal there. Much love at that place!

The people involved in this organization are incredibly dedicated and hard working - all for one mission - to help and support our 4 legged friends.
I appreciate everything they do!

We adopted our beautiful husky mix, Kysa, from NFSAW in December of 2010. The NFSAW staff is very caring and work very hard to find good homes for these deserving pets. We appreciated that their adoption application was thorough - it was apparent that they truly want to find caring and responsible pet owners for their animals. The staff was very helpful, answered all our questions, and assisted us through the process of adopting Kysa. I have recommended NFSAW to anyone who is looking to adopt a pet, or to those who stop us to ask us about our beautiful dog. I hope they get the financial support and volunteers they need to keep their great organization going! Thanks NFSAW!

We adopted our beautiful cat, Jake, in the summer of 2009 from NFSAW. We were very pleased with how smoothly the process went and how well cared for Jake was. The shelter was very clean and organized. Jake had his own folder explaining the adoption process as well as all of the necessary vaccinations. To this day, we use his original folder from NFSAW to store his vet paperwork. He has been a wonderful addition to our cat family. I would definitely adopt another kitty from this shelter. Thanks NFSAW for a great cat!!

My family and I recently lost our cat of 16 years. We also have a dog named Peanut who was equally saddened by the loss of our cat. We decided as a family that it would be good for all of us, including Peanut, to add another member to family to help ease the saddness. We decided on another dog. After searching many shelters, we landed upon NFSAW. We found Nix there, a rescued one year old from a high kill shelter. We were thrilled to learn that NFSAW rescues dogs from high kill shelters. The entire adoption process with them was easy, yet thorough. We were able to bring our Peanut by to meet Nix, who we have now named Marley. We knew he was the perfect match. After the several shelters I have been to, I was pleased with the process and pleased with how organized and involved they are with each animal. Marley has been the perfect addition to our home and we couldn't be more pleased!

We found a stray wandering in our neighborhood that looked very frightened. We brought the dog into our home and called the NFSAW and they immediately helped us, as the dog's owner had already contacted them to find her dog. Within a few minutes the dog was reunited with his owner. This all transpired at 7:00 a.m. through their emergency contact number. I want to thank all the volunteers that work for NFSAW for their outstanding service to the animals of this community. You made a very lost dog (and the people who love him) very happy !!!!

I have a long history with NFSAW. We adopted our dog Max from the shelter. We had 13 wonderful years with him. I also donated my time and did crafts for the Christmas Boutique and other fundraisers. I was fortunate to be asked to be on the Board of Directors. We moved in 2006 to Oregon. We still support the shelter and all of it's wonderful commitment to animals. They are a wonderful group of people and I really miss working with them.

I am a Volunteer Baker for the NF/SHERMAN ANIMAL WELFARE which means I deliver a baked item the morning of the fund raising bake sale. They do this several times a year and it all goes to support the organization. These people who organize, advertise and care for the animals are some of the most dedicated people on the planet. Besides the animals being well cared for the facility itself is kept clean and efficient......again, Volunteers.

Compassionate people dedicated to saving and improving the lives of our 4 legged friends.

I was a volunteer for 3 years until I left to start my family. It was great to work on training the dogs before they were adopted. So much care goes into all of their animals cats and dogs.

We got our great beagle from NFSAWS. He was rescued by NFSAWS from a kill shelter in Hartford. We think they are wonderful to take the time to save great animals like Charlie who are just in the wrong place at the wrong time and help them find forever homes like us.

We recently lost our dog of 9 yrs, Sasha, to cancer. My family and I were left with heavy hearts and a lack of fresh, slobbery dog kisses. We soon found that NFSAW had a puppy who was 14 weeks old. Her name was Skye and I was the first to go and see her. Well, of course it only took seconds to realize that this was my next dog :) she was not only beautiful and spunky like all puppies but she had the personality of my next best friend. I was then put through the "shelter pat down" to make sure that my family home would be the best place for Skye. We passed and my whole family met Skye that week. They had the same feeling as me and the past 2wks have been that of laughter and fun. We recently had our follow up call from NFSAW and told them how thankful we are and we hope to get some pictures on their face book page soon. Thank you NFSAW for your time and thought but most of all Skye. Thanks- Jessica Mancini, Ridgefield, CT

The New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare Society has been a great resource to our community. Our Cub and Boy Scouts have enjoyed volunteering with NFSAW to support their fundraising events. They have taken many of our pet toys and accessories and given them to families in need. The NFSAW staff has always been very compassionate and helpful in guiding us in our search for pets when we lost a cat or dog. The animals under their care always seem happy, healthy and clean. They too are the benefactors of the great work provided by the NFSAW team.

My son needed volunteer hours to graduate from New Fairfield High School, and decided that the New Fairfield Sherman Animal Wefare was the place where he wanted to do his hours. I came with him, and for two years on Saturday morning, he and I cleaned cat cages, folded laundry, washed dishes and played with the cats. During that time two of the cats ended up finding forever homes with us. The staff there was very caring, and the animals were well cared for and loved during there stay there. If we still lived in New Fairfield, I would be still be a volunteer.

When our 18 year old cat died we were devastated but realized we needed to get back on the bike so immediately went to NFSAW. We asked to see two feral pairs that were in a foster home. After spending time with them we (sorry!) split the pair and took the two liveliest. The other two were very companiable (with each other ) but did a lot of sleeping. Well, 2 years later we're still getting these two (one male, one female) acclimated to indoor living but they really love to race around, cuddle at night --not during the day!--and eat!. Thanks NFSAW

I started volunteering as a dog socializer at NFSAW shortly after moving to Connecticut in 2004. I quickly saw what a great organization it is, and wanted to become more involved. Fortunately, I was invited to join the Board, so with the help of the other 11 Board Members, I have been able to help guide the organization over the last several years. We have a nearly 100% adoption rate, which is a testament to our great Shelter Manager who is able to promote our pets effectively. We also are able to save a lot of dogs from Tennessee where the euthanasia rate at shelters is very high. We have been lucky in the last few years to receive grants to make some much-needed improvements at the shelter, including new dog kennels and a new sump pump system to stop our incessant flooding in the basement! These grants allow us to use our donors' dollars for direct animal care. NFSAW is a wonderful organization and we hope to continue our success.