Statement from Barbara Vollero: Titan, an active volunteer in North Branford and Branford, left this world 11/14/2013. While his passing has been incredibly sad, I want people to remember his vibrant life.

Born in December 1999, Titan was the only surviving puppy in his litter.  This spirited determination would prove to be a hallmark of Titan’s character.  We brought him home from the breeder in February 2000.  Titan filled our hearts with so much love and joy, we had to give some back. After seeing a documentary on Vietnam war dogs left behind by the US Army, helping animals became our mission.

Titan was the inspiration for the North Branford Animal Angels, founded in December 2000.  It all started with building a fenced-in yard for the dogs at the North Branford Animal Shelter.  Titan was the first “poster boy,” and he inspired an entire community—bottle drives, penny drives, dime drives, collection boxes all over town, even bell ringing in front of Stop & Shop.  By spring 2001, the dogs were enjoying their new yard. So many people participated, there was a money surplus. This helped pay vet bills for animals at the shelter.

Titan was great with children.  In 2002, we visited Jerome Harrison School and spoke to the students how kindness to animals builds character.  In the same year, Titan made a TV commercial called, “Meet the Breeder.” Its focus was to educate people about puppy mills and the importance of meeting the breeder whenever you buy a puppy.

In 2003, we met with Brownie Troop 141 and he inspired them to help with the bottle drive. We also were invited to wrap gifts at Barnes & Noble at holiday time and collect donations.  Both these traditions continued for several years and were very helpful in replenishing the bank account. Titan never missed a photo shoot!

In 2006, Titan became a pet therapist at Branford Hills.  He worked there for three years and despite developing some health problems, he always cheered up the residents, their families and the staff.  He retired in May of 2009.

Under the guidance of Dr. Osorio, Titan exceeded his expected life span. He was just 3 weeks shy of his 14th birthday.  Because of Titan’s inspiration, the North Branford Animal Angels raised over $15,000 and paid out over $14,000.  Titan helped children, adults, the elderly, the sick and other animals. He was not just a pretty face.  Titan lived up to his name. Our community was truly blessed to have such a vibrant dog.  Thank you, Titan, for all you have done.  We will always love you and treasure the time we shared.