A Guilford, Connecticut dog (Simon) who has been in animal control lockup for nearly two years (and was set to be euthanized) has finally been released. This comes after prolonged legal and public relations efforts which saw frequent protests outside local government offices.
Dr. David Young, who adopted Simon in 2011, said Simon was seized by Guilford Animal Control after biting a boy (who was trespassing in his backyard) in 2017. Simon was set to be euthanized however, Young refused to accept the grim fate.
“Simon is a huge part of my family and he is the embodiment of unconditional love. I promised Simon from day one that I would never stop fighting for him,” said Young.
Young hired New York based public relations firm, Goldman McCormick PR. GMPR wasted no time in getting Simon’s story to the local community and national media. Young frequently appeared on television and radio programs pleading Simon’s case. There were protests, fundraisers, rallies, prayer circles, and even a large billboard (which cost thousands of dollars) erected on interstate 95 in East Haven saying: “Help Save Simon & Your Beloved Dogs From Guilford Politicians.”
“Goldman McCormick PR was relentless in getting our message out. Each week the pro-Simon protests grew larger in size and pretty soon I was getting support letters from people across the country,” said Young. “As public outcry about Simon’s plight grew and pressure on local officials continued to mount, we sensed that it would only be a matter of time before Simon was free. We were right. I’m very thankful for what this firm did for us.”
Young said his attorney and the town’s attorney came to an agreement that would allow Simon to be released if he was sent out of state. Simon’s new home is on a farm Michigan and David says he’ll be visiting frequently.
“We are so happy for Simon and the Young family. Our agency is very passionate about animal rights and helping animals that are in need. Knowing that Simon is out of a bleak situation and is now warming hearts again is an amazing feeling.” said Mark Goldman, Co-Founder of Goldman McCormick PR.
“Simon and I are as inseparable as peanut butter and jelly. I don’t think either of us can imagine life without the other. This was a hard-fought battle and it was worth every penny,” said Young.