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Vote Team Second Chance to Help Us Win Up to $20,000

Support Team Second Chance in the Pet Lover’s Choice Awards! Cast your vote to help our rescue pets win up to $20,000 for Second Chance Animal Services and their lifesaving programs.

A Dozen “Second Chance Alums” Rank Top 10 in National Contest

Huge potential prize for Second Chance Animal Services

A large-scale, nationwide contest could give some locally rescued dogs and cats a chance at TV stardom, while offering Second Chance Animal Services a shot at national recognition and donations of up to $20,000 to help fund the animal welfare programs that help 64,000+ New England animals each year.

The Pet Lover’s Choice awards, sponsored by national animal charity Best Friends Animal Society, was designed as the “pet version” of the very popular Teen Choice Awards, which ran from 1999-2019. Voting is open to the public and began in November 2025.  Two separate rounds of voting have been slated, with the first having concluded in late February. A star-studded, televised ceremony revealing the winners is slated to air nationally in Spring, 2026.

The contest allows for public voting. Many pets affiliated with Second Chance made it through the very competitive first round, with a dozen currently ranked in the top ten nationally in their respective groups.  Each pet contestant could win his or her family huge prizes, including $10,000 cash and a free all-expenses trip to the ceremony in Los Angeles.  Winning pets are even invited to the ceremony itself, if they are crowd-tolerant and up for the red-carpet experience.

Pets currently in the running include Roxie, a dog who spent 2+ years in the Second Chance adoption center before being adopted by the volunteer who’d fallen in love with her years prior.  Due to his rental apartment’s ban on pets, the smitten volunteer was unable to adopt Roxie until he could purchase a house “for her.” When he was finally able to purchase a home, he adopted her on the very day he closed. The happy story was featured in People Magazine in 2025 and as of press time, the 9-year-old mutt has been alternating between the #1 and #2 spots in the contest’s ultra-competitive  Best Rescue Pet category.  The public can vote for Roxie here

Adorable Lola is currently ranked #1 in the Cutest Dog category.  Lola was one of 26 purebred golden retrievers rescued by Second Chance in late summer of 2025 from an unscrupulous “backyard breeder” who later faced criminal charges for neglectful treatment of the puppies and parent dogs. The story was widely publicized, leading to an immense outpouring of interest from the community and the very quick adoption of all of the dogs.  The public can vote for Lola here

In the Athletic Champion category is 5-year-old Sid, a mini 9-lb. terrier mix who lost a leg to a car accident.  Close to death, she was abandoned at a vet clinic in rural Tennessee, and adopted in 2020.  A video showing Sid at a Boston dog park, racing to fetch a squeaky ball, helped to propel her to the current #1 spot in the category.   The public can vote for Sid here

Additional contestants include Phoebe, a 7-lb. mutt found as a stray dog on the streets of Boston in 2018. Today, she has a huge wardrobe of coats, dresses and even hats, as demonstrated by her contest photos. Described as a “born supermodel,” she is currently ranked #1 in the Most Fashionable category. The public can vote for Phoebe here

Additional dogs in the contest’s top 10 include Spencer, a certified emotional support animal and proud “mama’s boy” who is ranked at #3 in the popular Best Rescue Pet category. Adorably scruffy little Zulu is #7 in the Senior Sweetheart category and sports the grey whiskers you might expect for a lady of her age.

Performing well in the Cutest Dog category are pint-sized fashionista Gracie, currently #3, and dignified Duke, well known in his adopted hometown of Southbridge, MA, where he’s been named Duke of Southbridge. Duke is currently ranked at #5.  The public can vote for Spencer here, Zulu here, Gracie here and Duke here

But it’s not just rescue dogs who are performing in the top ten in the national contest.  Jovi, a stunning blue-eyed Persian cat who loves to chase paper balls, is currently ranked #5 in the Best Rescue Pet category. In the popular Cutest Cat category is Shadow, an adorable and cuddly grey and white cat currently ranked #4, Dahlia, a champion purrer who lives happily with another Second Chance rescue cat, ranked #5, and Habanero, a “spicy” kitten who loves to chase birds and follow her people around the house.  The public can vote for Jovi here, Shadow here, Dahlia here, and Habanero here

Second Chance is proud of all of its affiliated entrants into this well publicized national contest, and hopeful that the rescue pets featured could even help the charity garner enough votes to win some of the prize money offered (the charity with the most votes nationwide will receive $20,000, while 16 runners up will receive $5,000 each).  Friends and followers of both the individual pets and of the charity itself are encouraged to vote at the links above or below and are reminded that they may vote for as many pets as they wish, even in multiple categories, once a day, until the contest closes.   Additional votes can be “purchased” by making a donation to Best Friends Animal Society.

Second Chance Animal Services Development Director Lindsay Doray was happy to see so many Second Chance pets auditioning for a red carpet experience.  “It is amazing to see so many animals, with all they have been through, trying to raise money to help many more shelter pets get a new ‘leash’ on life,” she said.

It is worth noting that even if none of the Second Chance pets win, the contest is helping to publicize the types of wonderful, worthy animals up for adoption every single day at shelters around the country, including at Second Chance Animal Services’ busy adoption center in East Brookfield, MA. The adoption center is open to the public Mondays 10 – 3, Tuesdays 10 – 3, Wednesdays 10 – 3, Thursdays 10 – 3 and 5 – 7, Fridays 10 – 3, and Saturdays 10 – 4. The adoption center is closed to the public on Sundays.

Aside from its adoption center, which finds homes for an average 1,500 pets each year, the organization, founded in 2004, offers initiatives aimed at keeping animals out of shelters, including four nonprofit animal hospitals in central Massachusetts which offer low or no cost veterinary care to pet owners facing financial need.  It supplies 25 food pantries with pet food, and runs programs that aim to help seniors and military vets keep their beloved companion animals at home.  More information on the charity’s programs here.  Animals participating in the Pet Lover’s Choice Awards can be viewed at the following links:

Dogs:

Roxie, Best Rescue Pet category

Lola, Cutest Dog category

Sid, Athletic Champion category

Phoebe, Most Fashionable category

Spencer, Best Rescue Pet category

Zulu, Senior Sweetheart category

Gracie, Cutest Dog category

Duke, Cutest Dog category

Jovi, Best Rescue Pet category

Cats:

Shadow, Cutest Cat category

Dahlia, Cutest Cat category

Habanero, Cutest Cat category

For more information on the contest itself, the public is encouraged to go to PetLoversChoiceAwards.com    While the contest is now closed to additional entrants, Best Friends Animal Society has stated publicly that it intends for the contest to be an annual event.

More: BestFriends.org

The Countdown Is On for Our Annual Auction Gala

Join Second Chance Animals for our Annual Auction Gala on March 28. Enjoy dinner, auctions, and raffles while supporting lifesaving veterinary care for pets in need.

At Second Chance, every day is about possibility. A frightened kitten gets the surgery she needs. A senior dog finds a loving home. A family facing hardship keeps their beloved companion because care was within reach.

Our Annual Auction Gala is a celebration of those moments and a powerful way to create many more. We invite you to join us on Saturday, March 28th at the AC Marriott in Worcester for an evening where compassion turns into action and generosity turns into lifesaving care.

Why This Night Matters

Second Chance provides advanced medical care, affordable veterinary services, spay and neuter programs, and rescue and adoption support across our community. We say yes to pets who need more time, more treatment, and more hope.

The Gala helps make those yeses possible. Your support does not just fund programs. It changes lives.

An Evening to Celebrate and Give Back

The Gala brings together friends old and new, supporters, businesses, and animal lovers for a meaningful and memorable evening. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, raffles, and an exciting array of silent and live auction items.

From thoughtfully curated gift baskets to unique experiences and special packages, every item represents the generosity of a community that believes in second chances.

How You Can Be Part of It

There are so many ways to join us:

Purchase Tickets
Spend the evening celebrating the lifesaving work you help make possible.

Become a Sponsor
Demonstrate your commitment to pets in need while gaining visibility and recognition in the community.

Donate Auction or Raffle Items
Experiences, gift certificates, services, and themed baskets all help us raise critical funds. Businesses often welcome the opportunity to support the causes their customers care about.

Share the Event
Invite friends and colleagues. Help us spread the word. The more support we gather, the more pets we can help.

Because Every Pet Deserves a Second Chance

Behind every bid placed and every ticket purchased is a pet waiting for care, comfort, and a brighter future.

We are proud of the lives we change together each year, and we are grateful for the compassion that makes it possible. Join us on March 28th and help write the next chapter of hope for pets in need.

Together, we can give more animals the second chance they deserve.

Behind the Paw: A Behind the Scenes Career Experience

Explore mission driven animal care careers through Behind the Paw, a behind the scenes program for qualified applicants at Second Chance Animal Services.

At Second Chance, our mission comes to life through the people who show up each day to care for pets, support families, and strengthen our community. It is about people coming together every day to make sure pets can stay healthy, stay with the families who love them, and find new beginnings when they need them most.  That shared purpose drives everything we do, and now we are inviting qualified job applicants to experience it firsthand through a new program called Behind the Paw.

Behind the Paw is an immersive, behind the scenes experience designed specifically for qualified job applicants who are interested in mission driven animal welfare careers. Participants spend a few hours or a full day alongside Second Chance team members, observing real work in action across departments including veterinary services, shelter and animal care, reception, development, and more. Along the way, participants learn how each role contributes to our mission of helping pets stay healthy, stay in their homes, and find new beginnings.

As one of the fastest growing nonprofit animal welfare organizations in Massachusetts, Second Chance helps more than 64,000 pets each year through affordable veterinary care, community programs, adoption services, and shelter support. As demand for these services continues to grow, we are expanding programs and developing innovative community initiatives, creating an ongoing need for skilled, values aligned professionals who want their work to truly matter.

Behind the Paw is designed for individuals who are qualified to work in roles such as veterinarian, veterinary technician or assistant, animal care technician, veterinary reception, and development or fundraising. Participants may explore both current openings and roles that may become available in the future. When no current openings exist, qualified applicants may be added to Second Chance’s talent priority list and considered first as new positions become available.

This program is not intended for students. Individuals currently enrolled in veterinary, vet tech, animal science, or related programs should explore Second Chance’s dedicated intern and externship opportunities, which are tailored to meet academic and hands on training requirements.

Second Chance is not just a workplace. It is a mission. Every person who joins our team helps expand access to affordable veterinary care and keeps pets with the families who love them. If you are a qualified professional looking to experience what mission driven animal care truly looks like, we invite you to step Behind the Paw.

Learn more and apply at
www.secondchanceanimals.org/behind-the-paw/

Thank you for helping us replace a our heating system

1/19/2026 UPDATE: We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming response from our community. Your generosity and the many kind messages you have shared have meant more to us than we can say. Work will begin on the installation of the new heating system on Wednesday when it arrives. Thank you for standing with Second Chance and the animals who depend on us. 

1/16/2026 UPDATE: This morning, we learned that additional custom ductwork will be required as part of the heating system installation. As a result, the total project cost will exceed the preliminary estimate. We are working with our contractors to finalize the revised cost which could be as high as $23,000 and have updated our fundraising goal to reflect this necessary work. The additional ductwork is essential to ensure the new system operates safely and reliably. 

This is not a story we ever hoped to share, but one we cannot avoid.

The heating system at the Second Chance Adoption Center has failed and must be completely replaced. We brought in professionals who explored every possible repair option, doing everything they could to save the existing system. Unfortunately, there is no safe or reliable way to salvage it.

This news comes at an especially difficult time. Cold weather is forecasted for the rest of the month, and heat is essential to the care of the animals who rely on our Adoption Center every day. Puppies, kittens, senior pets, and animals recovering from illness or surgery need a warm, stable environment to stay healthy and comfortable. Heat is not a luxury here. It is basic care.

The Adoption Center also serves as an emergency placement facility. When disasters displace pets, such as during the historic ice storm that knocked out power for weeks, this building becomes a safe haven. Without a functioning heating system, our ability to respond during emergencies is at risk.

Replacing a commercial heating system is a major, unexpected expense, but delaying is not an option. We are working to raise $23,000 to cover the cost of replacing the system as quickly as possible so we can continue to provide lifesaving care and remain ready when emergencies happen.

If you are able to donate, your support will go directly toward keeping the animals in our care warm, safe, and protected during the cold weeks ahead. If you are unable to give right now, sharing our fundraiser is an incredibly meaningful way to help.

Thank you for always standing with Second Chance and for caring so deeply about the animals who depend on us.

2025: A Record-Breaking Year for Pets and the People Who Love Them

Looking back on 2025, we are filled with gratitude and pride.

Last year, we helped a record breaking 64,143 pets. That makes 2025 one of the most impactful years in our history and reflects the growing need for accessible, compassionate care for pets and the people who love them.

Across all of our veterinary hospitals, we helped more animals than ever before. Some locations served thousands more pets than in prior years. By offering affordable veterinary care to everyone, with additional subsidies for those who qualify, we continue to break down barriers and ensure families can get the help they need when they need it.

Responding to Greater Need

The needs of shelter pets coming through our doors continue to change. In 2025, we cared for more pets with complex and long-term medical needs and responded to several large-scale rescue efforts, including the 52 cats taken in from a single home and the intake of 26 golden retriever moms and their puppies who were under two weeks old at the time of rescue. We supported an unusually high number of mothers with underage puppies and kittens who required extended foster care before becoming adoption ready.

These intensive cases require time, medical care, and patience. While we saw a slight decline in the number of pets adopted, it was because more pets needed longer stays and complex veterinary treatment. As a no kill shelter, we never euthanize pets for space and remain committed to every animal who needs our care.

Keeping Pets and Families Together

Demand for Project Keep Me more than doubled last year. Through this program, we provide temporary boarding and care for pets while domestic violence survivors secure safe housing and while veterans focus on in-patient treatment. By caring for pets during times of crisis, we help ensure families can stay together and reunite without the fear of losing a beloved companion.

We also saw a sharp increase in demand for our pet food pantry program, which now supplies pet food to 25 local human food pantries. As financial hardship continues to impact many families, this program helps keep pets fed, healthy, and at home. We expect to break ground early this year on an expansion that will allow us to feed even more pets in need.

Preventing Future Need

Prevention remains at the heart of our work. In 2025, our spay and neuter program reached a new record with 8,747 procedures performed. These services are essential to keeping pets healthy and reducing the number of animals entering shelters in the future.

Moving Forward Together

None of this work happens without the dedication of our staff and volunteers and the generosity of our supporters and community partners. Together, we are making a meaningful difference for tens of thousands of animals and the families who love them.

As we look to the year ahead, we remain committed to expanding access to care and being there for pets and people when they need us most.

Thank you for being part of that mission.

Donate
Second Chance Animal Services, Inc.
111 Young Road, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515

Twelve Stories of Hope and Healing in 2025

Celebrate the 12 Days of Second Chances with us. Throughout the year, your support has changed lives. Join us as we look back at amazing stories made possible by caring supporters like you.

DAY 1
Freckle’s Reunion

Freckles, a two-year-old cat, went missing in April of 2024, leaving his family devastated and searching for months with no answers. In January of this year, a quiet gray cat arrived at our Southbridge hospital for what was supposed to be a routine neuter appointment. To our surprise, he was already neutered. A quick microchip scan revealed the truth. It was Freckles.

From the moment we identified him, the entire team felt the excitement build. While he waited with us, Freckles was calm and quiet. Suddenly, he began meowing at the top of his lungs.

We soon learned why. His family had just walked through the door. He knew they were there before we did. There was not a dry eye in the building as Freckles leapt back into the arms of the people who never stopped loving him. Thanks to a simple microchip and a little luck, he is home again. Seeing this family reunited reminds us why we work so hard to keep pets out of shelters and with the families they love.

DAY 2
Buddy’s Second Chance

Buddy arrived at Second Chance as a timid ten month old Mini Australian Shepherd who had already faced more challenges than any young dog should. He tested positive for heartworm, a preventable disease that required months of treatment and gentle care. His future was uncertain, but our team, generous supporters and one very special foster refused to give up on him.

With patience, quiet days of recovery, and lots of love, Buddy began to trust the world again. Last week, he got the happy ending we had all been hoping for. His foster officially adopted him, giving this sweet pup the forever home he deserved. Buddy’s story reminds us why we do this work and how healing begins when a pet is surrounded by compassion and support.

DAY 3
Access to Care Saves Lives

Joey’s family faced a terrifying emergency. Their beloved pup had vomited up three rocks and was still very sick. Fearing another blockage, they rushed him to an emergency clinic—but the cost was out of reach. Desperate, they turned to Second Chance.

Within hours, Joey was in surgery at our hospital, where our team carefully removed a large rock lodged in his small intestine. Thanks to affordable, accessible veterinary care, Joey is now back home—safe, healthy, and loved. Stories like Joey’s are only possible because of supporters who make our mission a reality. Together, we keep pets and their people together.

DAY 4
Help for Toast

At just two-years-old, Toast had been through a lot in her young life. This sweet cat was surrendered to us on New Year’s Eve and was found to have a mass on her upper eyelid. Surgery was planned, but we soon discovered she was pregnant. Toast went into foster care to safely have her kitten, and once her baby was weaned, she was finally ready for the procedure.

Due to the mass’s location, Toast needed her eye removed to ensure her comfort. We were worried but the biopsy results brought wonderful news: the mass was benign! Toast was cleared for adoption and quickly found her forever home. Through it all, Toast remained the sweetest cat, and thanks to supporters like you, she now has a happy, pain-free life.

DAY 5
Gwinnie’s Happy Ending

Gwinnie is one of the sweetest souls you could ever meet, even after everything she has endured. This one year old American Staffordshire terrier mix was found by a Good Samaritan on the side of a remote road. She was weak, dangerously thin, and missing her ears due to a cruel act. It is a miracle she did not lose her hearing.

Despite her painful past, Gwinnie never lost her gentle spirit. She remained patient and affectionate through every exam and treatment, soaking up every bit of kindness she received. Gwinnie tested positive for heartworm, a preventable but life threatening disease, but thanks to timely treatment and compassionate care, she completed her recovery. Today, Gwinnie is healthy, loved, and happily adopted, a living reminder of how resilience and support can change a life.

DAY 6
Homebound to the Rescue

For many seniors, a beloved pet is a lifeline. Unfortunately, fixed incomes and limited transportation can make even basic veterinary care feel impossible. Without help, pets can suffer and families face heartbreaking choices they never expected to make.

Our Homebound to the Rescue program steps in before that happens. By working with community partners and property managers, we bring essential pet care directly to the doorsteps of seniors at no cost. From vaccines and wellness exams to preventive care, this program keeps pets healthy, safe, and right where they belong, at home with the people who love them.

DAY 7
A 52-Cat Rescue

Earlier this year, Second Chance stepped in to help 52 cats from a single local home, one of the largestrescues in our history. A kind hearted resident had been trying to save homeless cats but, due to medical issues, could no longer keep up. The cats were clearly loved, but they arrived unvaccinated, unfixed, and in urgent need of care.

Among them were a mother cat with seven kittens, two underweight kittens, a pregnant mom, and many cats suffering from upper respiratory infections. Over the following weeks, our team coordinated foster placements, medical treatment, vaccines, and spay and neuter surgeries. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, every one of these cats received the care they needed and has now found a loving home. This rescue is a powerful example of what happens when compassion and community come together.

DAY 8
Community Vaccine Clinics Keep Pets Healthy

Preventive care saves lives, but access can be a challenge for many families. That is why Second Chance brings low cost vaccine clinics directly into the communities that need them most. By meeting people where they are, we help protect pets who may not be able to reach one of our hospitals.

At a recent Community Vaccine Clinic in Holyoke, 99 pets received critical protection in just one day. Thirty nine cats and sixty dogs were vaccinated, and thirty nine pets were microchipped, giving them an extra layer of safety. From rabies to distemper and parvo prevention, these clinics are a powerful way to keep pets healthy, families together, and communities safer.

DAY 9
Scarlett’s Journey HOME!

Some journeys take longer than others, but every pet is worth the wait. Scarlett spent more than 500 days in our care as we searched for the right home for her. Through it all, our team and volunteers never gave up on her, because at Second Chance, we are committed to giving every pet the time and care they need.

We were so thrilled when Scarlett finally found a home and family of her very own. Her story reflects our promise to remain proudly no kill, with a 99 percent save rate, and to stand by every animal who comes through our doors. Scarlett’s happy ending is proof that patience, compassion, and unwavering commitment change lives.

DAY 10
The Future of Animal Welfare

The future of animal welfare is being shaped today.  At our Southbridge veterinary hospital, students from Bay Path Vocational Technical High School recently had a rare hands on opportunity to assist after an emergency C section brought seven newborn puppies into the world.

As the puppies stabilized, students helped keep them warm and comfortable, learning firsthand what compassionate care looks like in real world situations. Our Southbridge hospital is home to the Bay Path Veterinary Educational Center at Second Chance, where future veterinary professionals gain meaningful experience while helping animals in need. We are honors to be a part of building a stronger, more compassionate future for pets and the people who care for them.

DAY 11
A Second Chance IN PROGRESS for Loki

Not every second chance ends with an adoption right away. Some take time, patience, and a community that  keeps believing. Loki has been with us since December 2023 and is currently our longest resident. While his journey is still in progress, our hope for him has never faded.

Our staff and volunteers dote on our longterm residents, enriching their lives and their spirit while they wait. Loki needs to be the only pet in an adult only home, which can make finding the right match take longer. Stories like Loki’s remind us how grateful we are for the supporters who continue to share, advocate, and stand by pets until the right person comes along. With your help and support, Loki’s story will have the happy ending he deserves.

DAY 12
Ducky & Misty

Some second chances arrive quietly, and others arrive carrying years of pain. Duck and Misty remind us why this work matters so deeply.

Ducky, a three-year-old Bulldog, came to Second Chance after being passed from family to family. Beneath her wagging tail was serious pain caused by a ruptured eye and chronic discomfort she had likely endured for far too long. Surgery to remove her eye offered her relief and a fresh start. Despite everything, Ducky remains sweet, affectionate, and eager to love. Once she heals, she will be ready to find the forever home she has always deserved.

Misty arrived just this past weekend. This one-year-old French Bulldog is nervous but incredibly gentle. She is facing multiple medical needs, including the removal of her right eye like Ducky, a spay, airway surgery to help her breathe more easily, and treatment for a severe ear infection that may require additional care. Her journey is just beginning, but she is surrounded by a team committed to giving her comfort, healing, and hope.

Duck and Misty represent the heart of our mission. Whether a pet’s second chance ends in adoption or is still unfolding, we are here for every step, thanks to supporters like you.
 

None of these stories would be possible without of the generosity of compassionate supporters like you. 

The new year is almost here and we hope we can count on you to be by our side.

This holiday season, you can help a nonprofit that can help animals in a truly unique way. We are so much more than a shelter. It’s our mission to make it affordable to people to care for their pets so they never have to face the heartbreak of surrendering a pet.

Your gift fuels our pet food pantry, helps seniors keep their beloved pets fed, provides low-cost vet care, and livesaving shelter services. Donate now to jumpstart our holiday support and transform an injured pet’s life and get its tail wagging. Thanks to our supporters we have already helped more than 59,000 pets this year and hope to increase that number next year with your support.

Donate now and your money will go twice as far thanks to a generous match from a longtime supporter. 

More Than 59,000 Pets Already Helped in 2025

With one month still to go, we are humbled to share that Second Chance has already helped more than 59,000 pets this year. This milestone surpasses last year’s record of 56,000 pets helped and reflects both the growing reach of our programs and the increasing challenges facing pets, families and shelters across our region.

This year has brought an extraordinary number of pets through our doors. To have already helped over 59,000 pets is remarkable, but it is also deeply troubling how many families and shelters are struggling. We are privileged to make such an impact, but the challenges continue to grow as more pet owners face financial hardships and more shelters operate at capacity.

Our four community veterinary hospitals are experiencing unprecedented demand from pet owners who rely on affordable care to keep their companion animals healthy and at home. At the same time, our pet food pantry program has seen dramatic growth as well. Through this program, Second Chance distributes pet food to local human food pantries, so families do not have to choose between feeding themselves and feeding their pets. Even with this support and with all the programs Second Chance offers, some local pet owners still find themselves unable to keep their pets due to financial constraints. These situations are heartbreaking for families and for our staff who work to keep pets and their people together whenever possible.

Shelters across the country continue to face severe overcrowding. Second Chance is taking in as many pets as possible while also providing the resources and care that prevent unnecessary surrenders. The need, however, continues to outpace available resources.

This historic year has also brought significant recognition for Second Chance and its impact on pets and the community. We were once again honored with multiple Best of Central Mass awards in both the Pet Grooming and Veterinarian categories. Second Chance received the Super 60 Nonprofit Award from the Springfield Regional Chamber, earned the 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, was awarded a four-star rating from Charity Navigator and was also named a Top Nonprofit on greatnonprofits.com.

In addition, we are so proud of our very own Dr. Lisa Nowicki who was recognized with the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association Merit Award for her dedication to advancing veterinary care and improving the lives of pets in need.

These honors reflect the commitment of our entire team and the generosity of our supporters. They remind us that behind every award is a pet whose life was changed for the better.

As we expand programs to meet the rising demand, we are facing significant financial pressure. We are asking for your help to ensure that lifesaving services remain available to every pet that needs them.

Every gift makes a direct difference. Whether it keeps a beloved pet with their family or provides critical medical care for a pet in crisis, support from the community is the reason we can keep saying yes.

We welcome support of any kind. Many donors choose to become Monthly Pet Pal Champions, providing ongoing support that helps us respond to emergencies and plan for the future with confidence. Whether you give once or choose to give monthly, your generosity plays an essential role in helping pets in need.

Donate now and your donations will be matched up to $15,000 by a generous longtime supporter. Donations can also be made by mail to Second Chance, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515.

Thank you for standing with us during this extraordinary year. Together we will continue to change lives and create brighter futures for pets and the people who love them.

A Feast for Man & Beast

As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, savoring the delicious aromas and flavors of the season, it’s only natural to want to share the joy with our furry companions. It’s important to keep our pets’ safety in mind. Here’s some tips to make sure your pets enjoy a Thanksgiving feast that’s as safe as it is delicious.

Turkey Talk:

While turkey is a Thanksgiving staple, it’s essential to prepare it with your pets in mind. Avoid giving them the turkey bones, as they can splinter and cause serious internal injuries. Also, refrain from seasoning the meat with garlic, onions, or other spices that can be harmful to pets. If you want to share the joy of turkey with your pet, offer them a small, boneless, and well-cooked portion. Raw meat is not recommended to be fed to pets.

Sensible Sides:

Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and green beans often find their way to the Thanksgiving table. While these can be safe for pets in moderation, be cautious about added ingredients like butter, sour cream, or marshmallows. Stick to plain, cooked vegetables without additional seasonings to keep your pets’ tummies happy.

Hold the Dessert:

As tempting as it may be to share your pumpkin pie or other sweet treats with your pet, it’s best to resist the urge. Many desserts contain ingredients like chocolate, xylitol, or spices that can be harmful to animals. Instead, treat your pet to a small amount of plain, canned pumpkin—just make sure it’s not the sugary pie filling.

Say No to Onions and Garlic:

These aromatic additions to many Thanksgiving dishes can be toxic to pets, causing damage to their red blood cells and severe anemia. Keep stuffing and other dishes containing onions and garlic out of reach, and make sure your guests are aware not to share these with your pets.

Be Wary of Nuts:

Nuts, a common ingredient in stuffing and desserts, can be a choking hazard for pets. Some nuts, like macadamia nuts, are also toxic to dogs. Keep dishes containing nuts well out of reach, and remind guests not to share nut-filled snacks with your furry friends.

Mindful of Portions:

While it’s a joy to include your pets in the Thanksgiving festivities, be mindful of portion sizes. Too much rich or unfamiliar food can lead to upset stomachs, diarrhea, bloat,  or even more severe health issues. Stick to small, pet-friendly portions to avoid any post-feast regrets.

Knowing what foods are pet-friendly and keeping tempting but harmful treats out of reach, you can create a Thanksgiving feast that includes every member of the family, furry ones included.

Wishing you and your pets a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Help Your Fluffy Friend Stay Warm This Winter with a Pre-Season Grooming

Winter is coming—discover why pre-winter grooming keeps double-coated dogs healthy, comfortable, and insulated. Book your pet’s grooming appointment today.

Winter is on its way, and for many double-coated dogs, that means one thing: their fur is about to work overtime. Before the cold settles in, a simple grooming appointment can make a world of difference in helping your pet stay comfortable, healthy, and truly winter-ready.

Our groomers see it every year – thick undercoats, early mats, and pups who start collecting snow like little four-legged magnets. While all that fluff may look cozy, tangled or impacted fur can actually prevent a dog’s coat from insulating the way nature intended.

Why Pre-Winter Grooming Matters

A seasonal grooming helps your dog:

  • Remove excess undercoat that can trap moisture or cause discomfort
  • Prevent mats that tighten in winter weather and may hide skin irritation
  • Maintain proper insulation (a clean, untangled coat keeps warmth in and cold out!)
  • Stay cleaner indoors, with less shedding and fewer “snowballs” stuck to their legs and belly

There’s a common myth that skipping grooming keeps double-coated breeds warmer. In truth, a well-maintained coat is far better for temperature regulation. When the fur is clean and brushed through, it creates the natural barrier your pet needs in cold weather.

A Little Care Now Makes the Whole Season Easier

A pre-winter grooming session is an easy way to help your pet feel their best before the snow starts flying. Our groomers take a gentle, health-focused approach to every appointment—because keeping pets comfortable is part of how we support families and the community.

Ready to Book?

Winter grooming appointments tend to fill quickly. You can schedule online at:
https://www.secondchanceanimals.org/grooming/

Or book by phone.

North Brookfield: 508-637-1333

Southbridge: 774-318-1101

Springfield: 413-739-2343

Give your fluffy friend a comfortable start to the season—because even the warmest hearts need a little help staying warm on the outside.

The Secret to a Happier Cat: Why Enrichment Matters More Than You Think

Discover easy, effective cat enrichment ideas to keep your indoor cat mentally stimulated, physically active, and emotionally fulfilled every day.

Cats are curious, intelligent, and instinct-driven creatures who thrive in environments that engage their minds and bodies. Every stretch, pounce, and playful chase connects to their natural instincts, to hunt, climb, observe, and explore. When their daily lives encourage these behaviors, cats feel fulfilled, confident, and balanced.

Cat enrichment is the practice of supporting those instincts through thoughtful activities, play, and environmental design. It’s about more than toys, it’s the variety, interaction, and stimulation that keep a cat’s world interesting and rewarding. From a simple game of chase to a new perch by the window, enrichment invites cats to express who they are at heart: curious explorers with sharp senses and endless curiosity.

Enrichment isn’t a luxury or an occasional treat, it’s a cornerstone of feline well-being. Providing consistent mental, physical, and emotional stimulation helps reduce stress, prevent boredom, and support lifelong health. A cat who plays, climbs, and engages daily isn’t just entertained, they’re thriving.

Why Enrichment Matters for Indoor Cats

Indoor cats live safe, comfortable lives, but that safety also means their world depends entirely on what their humans create for them. Without the ever-changing sights, sounds, and challenges of the outdoors, it’s up to cat parents to bring variety and stimulation into their cats’ daily lives. Enrichment gives indoor cats the chance to express their natural instincts—to play, explore, climb, scratch, and observe—within the safety of home.

Regular enrichment keeps cats mentally sharp, physically active, and emotionally balanced. It turns routine into adventure, helping prevent stress and boredom while strengthening the bond between cat and caregiver. By rotating toys, adding new textures, or offering different play experiences, cat parents can keep their companions engaged and fulfilled every day.

When enrichment is missing, cats can experience:

  • Boredom and frustration that lead to destructive behaviors like scratching or overgrooming.
  • Emotional decline, including withdrawal, anxiety, or depression.
  • Physical health issues such as weight gain, stiffness, or other inactivity-related conditions.

Simple Ways to Enrich Your Cat’s Indoor Life

Enrichment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, it’s about keeping your cat’s world interesting, engaging, and full of healthy outlets for their natural instincts. A few small changes and mindful routines can make an enormous difference in your cat’s daily happiness and well-being.

Here are some simple, effective ways to add enrichment to your home:

  • Interactive Playtime: Set aside time each day to play together using wand toys, feather teasers, or small balls to mimic hunting behaviors. These sessions provide both exercise and bonding.
  • Vertical Space: Cats love to climb and observe their surroundings. Add cat trees, wall-mounted shelves, or safe furniture access points to give them places to jump, perch, and rest up high.
  • Scratching Opportunities: Offer multiple scratching options, like posts, cardboard pads, or sisal boards, to satisfy their instinct to stretch, mark territory, and maintain healthy claws.
  • Food Enrichment: Use puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or hide small portions of food around the home. Encouraging cats to “hunt” for meals keeps them mentally stimulated and engaged.
  • Sensory Variety: Introduce new textures and scents through cat-safe herbs like silvervine or valerian, soft blankets, or toys with different materials. Even something as simple as rearranging toys can renew interest.
  • Observation & Relaxation: Create cozy resting spots near windows where your cat can safely watch birds, squirrels, or passing people. Visual stimulation helps satisfy their curiosity and calm their mind.
  • Catios (Enclosed Outdoor Spaces): For an added layer of enrichment, a catio lets cats safely enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and the sights and sounds of nature, all within a secure, enclosed environment. Catios combine outdoor adventure with indoor safety, giving cats the best of both worlds. Don’t know where to start on your catio journey? Catios come in all shapes and sizes, from DIY kits to fully customized, professionally built catios designed to fit your home and your cat’s personality.

Recognizing When Your Cat Needs More Enrichment

Cats are excellent at adapting to their environment, but they’re also experts at hiding boredom or frustration until it starts showing through their behavior. Recognizing the early signs that your cat needs more stimulation can help prevent stress and keep their mind and body in balance.

Here are some common signals your cat may need more enrichment in their daily routine:

  • Increased sleeping or lethargy: While cats naturally sleep a lot, excessive rest or disinterest in playtime can be a sign of boredom rather than contentment.
  • Aggression toward people or other pets: Cats that feel understimulated may redirect their pent-up energy or frustration through biting, swatting, or chasing other animals in the home.
  • Attention-seeking or destructive behaviors: Scratching furniture, knocking things off tables, or vocalizing excessively can be ways your cat is asking for interaction or engagement.
  • Overgrooming or self-soothing habits: When cats groom excessively or lick certain areas raw, it can sometimes stem from stress or lack of stimulation.
  • Changes in appetite or eating from boredom: Some cats eat simply because there’s nothing else to do, while others may lose interest in food altogether when unstimulated.
  • Reduced curiosity or play drive: A cat that once explored, played, or watched the world but now seems withdrawn or disinterested may need fresh experiences and new challenges.

These behaviors aren’t signs of a “bad” or “lazy” cat, they’re forms of communication. By recognizing them early and adding new sources of enrichment, you can help restore balance, relieve stress, and bring back your cat’s natural spark.

However, while these behaviors often point to a lack of enrichment, they can also indicate an underlying medical issue. If your cat shows sudden changes in behavior, appetite, or energy, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian to rule out any health concerns before adjusting their routine.

A Fulfilled Cat Is a Healthy Cat

 

Enrichment isn’t just about keeping your cat busy, it’s an ongoing expression of love and care. Every play session, climbing space, and new scent you introduce helps your cat live a more vibrant, confident, and joyful life. It’s a way of saying, “I see who you are, and I want your world to be full.”

Small daily changes can make a big difference. Five minutes of interactive play, a new texture to explore, or a cozy perch with a view can turn an ordinary day into something exciting and meaningful for your cat. The key is consistency, offering new experiences, challenges, and affection that keep their body active and their mind curious.

When we enrich our cats’ worlds, we do more than entertain them, we nurture their instincts, protect their health, and strengthen the bond that makes them part of our family. A fulfilled cat isn’t just happier; they’re healthier, more confident, and truly thriving.



Veterinary Hospitals:

When dialing Second Chance Animals please be certain to dial the full number including the area code, thank you!

N. Brookfield Community Vet Hospital
372 N. Main St.
North Brookfield, MA 01535
(508) 637-1333
northbrookfield@secondchanceanimals.org

Springfield Community Vet Hospital
67 Mulberry Street
Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 739-2343
springfield@secondchanceanimals.org

Worcester Community Vet Hospital
831 Main Street
Worcester, MA  01610
(774) 243-1234
worcester@secondchanceanimals.org

Southbridge Community Vet Hospital
700 Worcester Street
Southbridge, MA  01550
(774) 318-1101
southbridge@secondchanceanimals.org

Adoption:

Adoption Center
111 Young Road
East Brookfield, MA 01515
(508) 867-5525
adoption@secondchanceanimals.org

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