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Visitors can an enjoy a petting zoo at Spring Appreciation Day. Photo from WMHO
Visitors can enjoy a car show during Spring Appreciation Day. Photo from WMHO
Visitors can an enjoy a petting zoo at Spring Appreciation Day. Photo from WMHO

Due to rain in the forecast for Saturday, the annual Spring Appreciation Day at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook has been rescheduled to Sunday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. offering a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family.  Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment and experiences during this free event, including:

  • Steppin’ Out Ponies & Petting Zoo (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in front of D.K. Brothers): Children can interact with a variety of friendly animals.
  • Mustang & Shelby Club of Long Island Car Show (10 a.m. to 3 p.m. behind the Post Office): A spectacular display of Mustangs from 1964 to today, including classic models like the Shelby GT500, GT350, and the Boss 302. This event will also celebrate National Mustang Day, as MSCLI kicks off the season with up to 70 Mustangs on display. (MSCLI members must pre-register to participate; for more information, contact[email protected].)
  • Live Music by Brenda & Burke (noon to 4 p.m. at the Stony Brook Post Office): Enjoy an eclectic mix of R&B, Roots, Blues, and Contemporary Acoustic performances.
  • The Ward Melville Heritage Organization Youth Corps (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Inner Court): Family-friendly scavenger hunt for all to enjoy. One lucky winner will win a Stony Brook Village gift certificate. Other prizes are available for each participant.
  • Stony Brook Fire Department (noon to 3 p.m. behind the Post Office): Meet local firefighters, explore a fire truck up close, and learn about volunteer opportunities. Giveaway items will be available for children and adults.

While enjoying the festivities, visitors can shop the latest spring styles with special deals at participating Stony Brook Village shops and dine at one of seven delicious restaurants in the open-air village center.

Spring Appreciation Day is sponsored by News 12 Long Island, Goldfish Swim School, and Renewal by Andersen. For more information, visit stonybrookvillage.com

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Kai
Kai
Kai

Adopt the extraordinary Kai!

Meet this week’s Shelter Pet of the Week, the world’s most original looking pup, adorable Kai, up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

Kai is a three-year-old, playful little boy. While not positive, this one-of-a-kind, handsome and distinctive-looking gentleman’s features is believed to stem from a combination of poodle/bully mix and possible plushie toy.

Kai has a playful, fun-loving, puppy-like mentality and is very eager to please. He arrived at the shelter lacking proper training and socialization. However, now he enjoys playing with his four-legged buddies, and his humans at the shelter. Kai has really come out of his shell. He would thrive in a home that will teach him how to “doggo” and give him the memories he was once denied as a puppy. This incredibly sweet boy is a diamond in the ruff, who will bring a lifetime of joy, adventure, and companionship to one lucky family’s heart and home.

Kai would do best in a home with older children and is likely to get along with cats and other dogs. Interested adopters are welcome to schedule a time to get acquainted with this very special boy.

If you are interested in meeting Kai please fill out an application and schedule a date/time to properly interact in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

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Cola. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Animal Shelter

Detectives from the Suffolk County SPCA have charged a Kings Park woman with alleged animal cruelty and abandonment charges.  

Roy Gross, Chief of the Suffolk SPCA, said that its detectives charged Hanchao Zhang, 37, on misdemeanor animal cruelty alleging that she abandoned her male one year old labrador mix puppy named Cola at Sunken Meadow State Park on April 14.

New York State Park Rangers who discovered the dog after being abandoned without food, water, or shelter in a semi wooded area of the park. The dog was transported to the Smithtown Animal Shelter and is now up for adoption. Read more about Cola here.

To report animal cruelty 24/7 call 631-382-7722.

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Stark

Welcome to the 40th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home.

 

Simon

Meet Simon

“Simon says, only do what Simon says.” Full of demands, this bossy little seven -year-old Chihuahua mix at Little Shelter in Huntington is confident he’ll soon have you in the palm of his hand, or paw, as the case may be! Looking for someone to do his bidding while taking care of his every need, he promises to be a true blue friend in return, making himself indispensable. Typical of his breed, he is small in stature, big on spicy personality, somewhat judgmental, and loyal to a fault. Reported to love toys, he’s first in line for playtime, doubling down on the fun factor. Then, ready for a power nap, he’ll burrow into his blankets and disappear, only to awake refreshed and ready for round two. Time for a “pup-grade”?  Simon says, stop by to meet me today! 631-368-8770

Norman Rockwell

Meet Norman Rockwell

Handsome Rockwell was found as a stray and never claimed at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. Approximately two years old and weighing 55 pounds, this guy is fun all of the time! He needs a little help focusing on his training, but he wants to please you and he wants to play all day long. Norman would do best in a home without cats and that can provide an active life with lots of walks. 631-360-7575

Spunky

Meet Spunky

Fitting the definition of energetic, courageous, and determined, meet Spunky, a three -year-old Terrier mix available for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. In the prime of his life, this active fellow loves walks, toys, pets, and scratches. Very fond of the pack of pups he arrived with, he would also love to have (though not required) a “sibling” in his new home. Undeniably handsome with his lush, flowing coat, he nevertheless knows that it’s what’s inside that truly matters. Dogs don’t need words to teach us loyalty, love, or forgiveness…they carry it in their wagging tails and warm eyes. Add some Spunk(y) to your day by day…stop by to meet this fellow soon!

“My heart just grew four paws.”

*Spunky is fully grown and mostly housebroken*

Meet Stark

This handsome boy is Stark, a 13-year-old domestic long-haired Ragdoll mix with a heart as soft as his fur. Stark came to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter from a difficult situation, but his resilience and loving personality have truly shone through. Stark is a diabetic, but don’t let that scare you—his condition is well-managed with a simple once-daily oral glucose-regulating medication and a prescription diet. Despite his medical needs, Stark is a happy, affectionate, and easygoing guy who just wants a family to call his own. He is also good with other cats! If you’re ready to give Stark the forever home he deserves, come meet him today. Let’s show this sweet boy what love and stability truly feels like! 631-451-6955

Meet Finn

Kent Animal Shelter in Calverton has many cats available for adoption including Finn, a sweet 8-month-old tabby cat who likes baskets and stuffed animals! Come meet him today! 631-727-5731

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Free rabies vaccination clinic

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services in conjunction with the Town of Brookhaven will offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven. Although the clinic is available to all county residents, the quantity of vaccine is limited and available only while supplies last. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats and ferrets must be in carriers.

New York State and Suffolk County laws require that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinating pets not only provides protection for the animals but also acts as a barrier to keep the rabies virus from spreading between wild animals and people.

“Take the time to protect your beloved pets against rabies. They give us so much joy and love and deserve to be kept safe,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. For more information, call 631-451-6950.

Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of May 15.

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

 

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METRO photo

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services in conjunction with the Town of Brookhaven will offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven.

Although the clinic is available to all Suffolk County residents, the quantity of vaccine is limited and available only while supplies last. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats and ferrets must be in carriers. No reservations required.

Can’t make it that day? The shelter will also hold free rabies vaccination clinics on May 31, June 28, July 26 and Aug. 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Take the time to protect your beloved pets against rabies. They give us so much joy and love and deserve to be kept safe, ” said County Executive Ed Romaine.

Rabies, a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system, is most often seen among wild animals such as raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes, but any mammal can be infected with rabies. Pets and livestock can get rabies if they are not vaccinated to protect them against infection.

New York State and Suffolk County laws require that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinating pets not only provides protection for the animals but also acts as a barrier to keep the rabies virus from spreading between wild animals and people as three to six percent of the bats that are tested annually are positive for rabies.

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services recommends the following precautions to protect your pets and your family from possible exposure to rabies:

  • Do not feed, touch, or approach wild animals, or stray dogs or cats.
  • Be sure your pet dogs, cats, and ferrets as well as horses and other livestock animals are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
  • Pets too young to be vaccinated should be kept indoors and allowed outside only under direct observation.
  • Keep family pets indoors at night. Do not leave them outside unattended or let them roam free.
  • Do not attract wild animals to your home or yard. Keep your property free of stored bird seed or other foods that may attract wild animals. Feed pets indoors. Tightly cover or put away garbage cans. Board up any openings to your attic, basement, porch, or garage. Cap your chimney with screens.
  • Do not transport or relocate any wild animals.
  • Teach children not to touch any animal they do not know and to tell an adult immediately if they are bitten by any animal.

To keep bats from getting into buildings, bat-proofing techniques should include:

  • Not leaving unscreened doors open to the outside
  • Not leaving unscreened windows open to the outside
  • Making sure windows have screens, chimneys are capped, and electrical and plumbing openings are plugged
  • Sealing all openings that are larger than 1/2 inch
  • Using materials such as expanding spray-on foam, caulk, wire mesh, wood that fits tightly, steel wool (around pipes that enter buildings), or polypropylene bird netting, to seal or cover gaps and holes.

Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services at (631) 854-0333 weekdays, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Animal bites or contact with wild animals can be reported to the Department at (631) 852-4820 outside normal business hours. If possible, try to contain the animal so that it can be tested.

For more information on rabies, follow the links below:

For information about the rabies vaccination clinic, call the Brookhaven Animal Shelter at (631) 451-6950 or visit www.brookhavenny.gov/AnimalShelter.

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Trinity
Trinity
Trinity

ADOPT TRINITY!

Step into a world of love, loyalty, and husky charm with Trinity, this week’s featured Shelter Pet available for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. This extraordinary young lady is ready to fill your life with joy, adventure, and unconditional affection.

Trinity is a stunning female Husky, estimated to be just under a year old. With her shimmering white coat delicately outlined in black, she looks as if she stepped straight out of a snow-covered fairytale. Found wandering as a stray, Trinity was brought to the shelter in the hope that her family would come forward—but no one ever did. Now, this beautiful spirit is patiently waiting for a new chapter to begin.

Beneath Trinity’s striking appearance is a heart as warm as sunshine. She adores every person she meets, greeting everyone with a wagging tail and bright, expressive eyes. Her sweet, affectionate nature and gentle demeanor make her instantly beloved by staff and visitors alike. One moment with Trinity, and you’ll understand why she’s impossible to forget.

Like any young Husky, Trinity is smart, energetic, and playful—a pup with a zest for life and an endless supply of curiosity. She thrives on interaction and would flourish in a home that offers an active lifestyle and plenty of mental stimulation. Whether it’s a family hike, a playful romp in the backyard, or a cuddle on the couch, Trinity is ready for it all.

Trinity is showing promising signs of compatibility with other dogs, cats, and children, making her a wonderful fit for many types of households. She’s healthy, vibrant, and brimming with potential—just waiting for the right family to help her shine.

Shelter staff and volunteers agree; Trinity is the kind of dog that leaves paw prints on your heart… She’s affectionate, lively, and endlessly loving. Any family would be lucky to have her.

If you think your home might be the fairytale ending Trinity deserves, we invite you to fill out an application and schedule a Meet & Greet. Spend time with her in the shelter’s cozy domestic spaces, the dog runs, or take a stroll on their Dog Walk Trail—you’ll fall in love before you reach the halfway point.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

 

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Photo of the Week by Heidi Sutton
Photo of the Week by Heidi Sutton

PEACE AND QUIET

This healthy flock of wild turkeys was spotted at a local cemetery this week enjoying solitude among the gravestones.  Photo by Heidi Sutton

Send your Photo of the Week to [email protected]

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METRO photo

Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R – 18th L.D.) sponsored a resolution titled “Adopting Local Law No. -2025, A Local Law to Further Protect Animals from Persons Convicted of an Animal Abuse Crime.” The resolution was unanimously passed at the Legislature’s General Meeting on April 8th at the Legislature.

This local law amends the Suffolk County Code to establish a misdemeanor penalty for individuals on the convicted animal abuser registry who are found to be owning animals in violation of Suffolk County Code Sec. 229-28(F). 

In 2010, the Suffolk County Legislature enacted legislation to create the animal abuse registry, one of the first of its kind in the United States. Any Suffolk County resident aged 18 or older who is convicted of animal abuse is required to register their name, address, and photo with the registry. The registry is maintained on the Suffolk County Police website. Individuals must remain on the registry for 10 years and are prohibited from owning animals during this period.

The Suffolk County SPCA approached Legislator Bontempi to request this code amendment, highlighting a loophole in the current County code. The code did not impose any penalties on individuals listed on the Animal Abuse Registry, who were found to possess animals in violation of the County code. By passing this local law to strengthen the code, any individual who is required to register and is found to possess an animal in violation of section 229-28(F) will be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor and will face penalties associated with that class of crime.

“We often hear about cases of animal abuse in the news, and it’s sickening to witness. Animals cannot advocate for themselves, so our elected officials must speak up on their behalf. In Suffolk County, we will not tolerate the abuse or neglect of animals. By closing this loophole, we will ensure that those who disregard the law face consequences,” said Leg. Bontempi.

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Kellie Wehrheim of Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve. Photo from Town of Smithtown
A bat house. Photo from Town of Smithtown
An owl house. Photo from Town of Smithtown
A bird house. Photo from Town of Smithtown

Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve in Commack has launched an inspiring new project to support local wildlife and ecosystem health throughout the Town of Smithtown’s parks and beaches.

With a deep commitment to conservation and environmental education, the preserve has introduced 26 handcrafted wooden homes for bluebirds, wrens, bats, and Eastern screech owls, all designed and built by Hoyt Farm Groundskeeper, Kellie Wehrheim.

“Kellie has always had a deep love for birds and wildlife, and her fearless nature when it comes to caring for and protecting them is truly inspiring. From a young age, she’s never hesitated to lend a hand to an animal in need, and today, that same tenacity and work ethic shines through in her work at Hoyt Farm. Her commitment to conservation and stewardship—especially in creating safe habitats for native birds and bats that play a crucial role in our ecosystem—makes me incredibly proud. Smithtown is lucky to have her making such a meaningful impact, and as her dad, I couldn’t be prouder.,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

The initiative aims to provide safe nesting habitats while also encouraging public engagement with nature. The newly constructed homes include six bluebird boxes, six wren boxes, six screech owl boxes, and eight bat houses. These boxes will be installed at optimal locations and heights within Smithtown’s parks and beaches, ensuring they benefit local wildlife populations.

“This project is not only about providing a safe habitat for our native wildlife but also about promoting education and environmental awareness… Each box will be clearly labeled to identify which species it was designed for. We hope this initiative inspires the residents of Smithtown to get outdoors, explore nature, and share in our mission to protect the wildlife that lives among us,” added Hoyt Farm Preserve Manager Jeff Gurmin and Park Interpretive Specialist Sheryl Brook.

The Importance of Supporting Native Wildlife

Providing safe, dedicated spaces for these species has a lasting environmental impact:

  • Birdhouses help birds thrive by offering protection and nesting opportunities. In return, birds contribute to weed and insect control, pollination, soil fertilization, seed dispersal, and biodiversity.
  • Bat houses provide critical roosting and breeding sites, helping declining bat populations while offering natural mosquito and pest control, reducing the need for pesticides.
  • Screech owl boxes provide safe nesting spots for these nocturnal predators, supporting natural rodent and insect control and encouraging local biodiversity.

Beyond their ecological benefits, these bird and bat houses serve as an educational tool—offering a unique opportunity for residents, students, and nature enthusiasts to observe and learn about native wildlife up close.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to keep an eye out for these beautifully crafted homes at Smithtown parks and beaches. Whether taking a stroll at Hoyt Farm, Paul T. Given Park, or the Nissequogue River Headwaters, nature lovers will soon spot these new additions, offering shelter to local birds, bats, and owls.

This initiative reflects the Town of Smithtown’s continued dedication to environmental stewardship, ensuring that our wildlife, parks, and natural habitats thrive for generations to come.

Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve is located at 200 New Highway, Commack.

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Sugar

ADOPT SUGAR!

She’s Sugar, spice and everything nice! Sugar is a delightfully sweet, and petite, chocolate-colored Min-Pin (Miniature Pinscher and Boston Terrier) Mix up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

This six-year-old girl’s journey began under some very unfortunate circumstances, originally rescued by the Shelter from a terrible breeding situation where she was used, neglected, and discarded. After medical care for being malnourished and dehydrated, this tiny survivor was later adopted… only to be returned to the shelter two years later due to her fears when it comes to meeting new people. This little survivor has been let down far too many times… but we know the right family is out there to give her the love she truly deserves.

Because of her difficult past, Sugar can be a little shy when meeting new people — but with patience, kindness, and a few treats, you’ll quickly earn her trust and see her wonderful personality shine. Sugar is smart, energetic, and eager to please. She loves to learn and will thrive in a quiet, compassionate home where she can finally feel safe, loved, and part of the family. If you’re ready to show Sugar that not all humans disappoint, she’s ready to fill your life with joy, loyalty, and unconditional love.

Sugar can become protective of her people, however she will listen when corrected. Sugar would be best suited in a quiet home with no other pets or children. Let’s get her story out to the world far and wide… if you’re not the right person for Sugar, you can still help by sharing her story on Social Media and with friends, neighbors and family.

If you are interested in meeting Sugar please fill out an application and schedule a date/time to properly interact in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

For more information regarding more rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 
URGENT – Foster Opportunity:
If you have no other pets or young children at home, and are looking for a way to serve your community, please consider signing up to be a foster. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens, and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for extended periods of time.
Download the Foster Application at:
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