The new pet resource center in Wilton is open! It’s already serving as a hub for Fairfield County residents — a place where veterinary care, behavior support, community education, and crisis resources come together to keep pets healthy and with the people who love them. The first veterinary appointments have taken place, and the staff even celebrated its first pet adoption.
Located at 863 Danbury Road, the new Wilton site replaces the former Westport location, which has permanently closed and has already been sold. CHS chose the new property for its central location near Bridgeport, Danbury, Stamford, Norwalk, and other neighboring cities, and for its potential to expand programs that address systemic barriers to pet well-being — including limited access to affordable veterinary care, pet-friendly housing options, and coordinated support for families in crisis. The property allows CHS to bring its statewide programs directly to the community, reducing barriers and creating a welcoming, accessible space for pet families.
Design for the space comes from architects experienced in community-focused animal welfare projects. The building prioritizes natural light, low-stress spaces, and a layout that minimizes noise and traffic. Flexible, multi-use rooms can adapt for training, workshops, or other activities. Sustainable materials and accessible entrances reflect the center’s commitment to environmental responsibility and inclusivity. Every design element is intentional — calming for pets, practical for staff, and welcoming for the public.
Inside, the pet resource center serves as both an adoption location and a hub for statewide programs that strengthen the bond between people and pets. The space includes modern housing for pets awaiting adoption, supported by dedicated behavior and medical programs that meet each pet’s unique needs. The on-site behavior team creates enrichment and training plans to prepare pets for life at home, while CHS veterinarians provide exams, surgeries, and specialized medical care to ensure every pet is ready to thrive.
Beyond adoption, CHS operates a variety of programs — now strengthened by this new location — designed to keep pets in homes with the people who love them. These include the CHS Veterinary Clinic in Wilton and the Fox Memorial Clinic in Newington, both low-fee public veterinary clinics making essential care more affordable. CHS also offers veterinary assistance and networking statewide to connect at-risk pets with wellness exams, vaccinations, and lifesaving treatment.
When families face crisis situations, the Safe and Sheltered Pets Program provides temporary housing for pets until they can safely reunite with their families. The Pet Food Pantry ensures no pet goes hungry when resources run low. Education and outreach programs — including classes, workshops, and webinars — reach pet lovers of all ages across the state, while recent adopters can access free behavior consultations that promote safe, positive training methods. Free online resources like webinars and downloadable guides make trusted information available to anyone, anytime. CHS also works with state legislators to advocate for laws and policies that protect pets and strengthen communities statewide.
The pet resource center in Wilton is open Tuesday through Saturday, 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. It’s a space designed to support every stage of the human-animal bond — from adoption to long-term care — and to keep pets and people together. Visit CThumane.org/Wilton to explore programs, services, and ways to get involved.