Crime & Safety

Highway Bandit: Dusya Has Been Spotted Running Free on I-95

Dusya, a shy Australian Cattle Dog from Darien, has been spotted running along I-95 and has been difficult to catch.

Laurie Hollywood, Animal Control rockstar, warns that this time of year brings a lot of interesting animal activity with it.

  • Snapping turtles can be observed much more frequently crossing roads this time of year. Sometimes, patience will remedy backed up traffic as the turtle will continue trucking along and be out of the way soon. Calling Animal Control rarely has and effect as the turtle is usually gone by the time they arrive on scene. Motorists getting out of their cars and looming over the turtles will only scare the turtle and make it sit where it is, possibly in hiding. She warns against trying to pick the turtle up as they can be very heavy and capable of biting.
  • Raccoons are incredibly visible this time of year. They are very active and will be spotted even during daytime hours. Hollywood says people will call thinking they are sick because they aren't hiding during the day. She said usually this is not the case, but gives signs to check for: Is the animal lethargic? Is it dragging its back legs? Is the animal moving slowly in circles? If so, call animal control immediately at 203-977-4437.
  • Squirrels are known to become quite agressive this time of year, and will act outwardly aggressive towards people if they believe their nest—and babies—are under attack. If you do not want a squirrel trying to claw your face, it's best to stay away.

***

A 3-year-old Australian Cattle Dog has been keeping motorists on I-95 around exits 9 and 10 pretty nervous the last couple days as she runs free after escaping last week, darting around on the highway.

Find out what's happening in Stamfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Going by the name Dusya, she's been an elusive presence to motorists due to an extremely shy personality. This has made it difficult for Stamford's Animal Control officers to catch her.

She's also made her way inland on occassion, and has been spotted near Boston Post Rd. and near Norwalk Hospital 2 days ago.

Find out what's happening in Stamfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Animal Control Office is hoping they'll be able to contact the owners of the dog as quickly as possible the next time the dog is spotted and get them to the scene in hopes that Dusya will be easier to round up. 

***

A Rabies Clinic will be held on June 9th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rippowam Middle School at 381 High Ridge Road and will offer a trifecta of opportunities for people to get their pets some necessary care and attention.

Rabies shots will be available for around $20 during this time and free microchipping will also be offered should your pet ever be lost. Both of these services will be rendered by Dr. Gary Lazarus of the Rippowam Animal Hospital.

You will also be able to register your pet properly with the city at the event. The fee is $8 to register a spayed or neutered pet, and $19 for an intact animal.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.