Suffield Animal Control Officer Wins Award

Information via Town of Suffield

SUFFIELD, CT – The Town of Suffield and Suffield Police Department announce that Animal Control Officer (ACO) Ryan Selig was recently named Connecticut ACO of the Year. The honor comes on the heels of a multi-pronged initiative to improve the ACO program beginning with Selig’s hire in 2017. Suffield First Selectwoman Melissa M. Mack and Police Chief Richard Brown spearheaded the effort in collaboration with East Granby First Selectman Jim Hayden. Selig also serves as East Granby’s ACO as a component of the initiative which seeks to reduce costs through shared services with neighboring towns.

Following the announcement Mack said, “We knew Officer Selig’s professionalism, dedication and expertise would serve both towns well and bring the ACO program to the next level. He was also instrumental in assisting with the Town’s transition from its aged dog pound to a state-of-the-art facility leased through River Valley Animal Center. Suffield and East Granby are both lucky to have him.”

The Connecticut Municipal ACO Association (www.ctaco.org) makes the selection based on an open nomination process in which Selig received several submissions, including from his peers. His tenure includes representing the Town of Suffield on a number of high profile cases related to animal cruelty and a human fatality from a canine attack. Selig is perhaps best known for saving Brooks, an abandoned and abused pup, that became infamous on social media. A wildlife advocate, Selig prioritizes public education while responding to numerous bear sightings. “Suffield is a town that cares deeply about its animals, natural amenities and public safety,” said Brown, “ACO Selig’s work is truly appreciated and valued by the community.”