Tucked away on a historic 70-acre former potato farm on Sound Avenue, Critterville has quickly established itself as one of the most dedicated non-profit animal sanctuaries on the North Fork. The 501(c)(3) refuge is spearheaded by 20-year-old Claire DiMenna, a full-time animal science student at the University of Connecticut who balances her rigorous academic schedule with managing the intake, financials, and operations of the expanding safe haven.
What began as a childhood passion blossomed into an official rescue operation in 2018. Originally operating out of a smaller five-acre family plot in Water Mill, the sanctuary relocated to Riverhead to access the expansive acreage and infrastructure required to provide high-quality, long-term care. Today, the heavily secured former sod farm serves as a permanent, specialized home for roughly 90 animals, including horses, mini donkeys, cows, pigs, goats, and a highly vocal population of rescued waterfowl and turkeys.
Critterville distinguishes itself from a traditional farm or petting zoo by operating strictly as a high-intervention rehabilitation facility. The converted main equipment barn features climate-controlled wooden pens tailored to animals with severe medical constraints, such as geriatric pigs managing osteoarthritis and special-needs birds resting on custom foam bedding. A core team of 15 dedicated volunteers handles meticulous daily tasks, from chopping farm-stand produce into bird-safe sizes to executing specialized veterinary menus that align with each animal’s distinct medical chart.
The infrastructure continues to expand to meet the needs of the region’s displaced and rescued fauna. A brand-new, multi-stall horse barn was completed on the property, which currently houses five rescued horses with room for future intakes. The sanctuary also coordinates closely with local law enforcement, occasionally acting as a secure foster site for animals tied up in ongoing legal disputes until permanent custody or rehabilitation paths can be established.
While Critterville maintains a strict policy of remaining closed to the general public to protect the peace and healing of its residents, the organization actively connects with the East End community through digital platforms and curated private tours. Backed by local agricultural partnerships and a passionate board of directors, DiMenna’s lifelong commitment ensures that some of the region’s most vulnerable creatures find a tranquil, permanent place to call home.
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