animal, Author at Second Chance Animals

Booms and Bustle: Summer Fireworks and Travel Safety Tips for Your Pets

Summer is a wonderful time for outdoor fun, family vacations, and celebrating holidays like the Fourth of July. But while we may enjoy the fireworks and road trips, these seasonal traditions can be stressful or even dangerous for our pets. I want to share some important reminders to help keep your furry family members safe and as comfortable as possible through the busy summer months.

Fireworks and Noise Anxiety

Loud noises like fireworks and thunderstorms can be overwhelming for pets. Their hearing is much more sensitive than ours, and many experience real panic when they hear those unexpected booms. Pets can injure themselves trying to escape crates, jumping through windows, or even running across the street. Frightened pets may even run away from home.

Some signs your pet might be struggling with noise anxiety include trembling, hiding, panting, pacing, vocalizing, and trying to escape. It’s heartbreaking to see them so afraid, but there are things you can do to help.

Start by creating a quiet, safe space in your home where your pet can feel secure. Close windows and curtains and turn on the TV or a fan to help mask the noise. Stay calm and be reassuring but avoid overreacting to their fear. Sometimes we mean well and end up reinforcing the behavior.

If your pet has a history of noise phobia, please talk to us ahead of time. There are calming wraps, supplements, and medications that can make a real difference. We can help you find the right solution for your pet.

And most importantly, never bring your pet to a fireworks display, and make sure they are indoors well before dusk. If your pet is not microchipped or their contact info isn’t current, now is the time to get that taken care of. We see too many lost pets each summer who don’t make it home because they aren’t chipped or their registration isn’t up to date.

Traveling With Your Pet

If you’re planning a summer getaway and want to bring your pet along, a little preparation goes a long way.

Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccines and parasite preventives and ask us for a copy of their medical records if you’re traveling across state lines or boarding them during your trip. Pack a travel kit that includes food, water, medications, a leash, waste bags, and familiar items like their bed or favorite toy.

Always use a secure carrier or travel harness when in the car and take frequent breaks for water and bathroom needs. Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside can climb to deadly levels quickly, even if the windows are cracked.

If you’re flying, be sure to check airline regulations well in advance, and make sure your pet is healthy enough for travel. Most destinations and airlines will require a health certificate for entry. And if your pet is staying home, plan ahead for a trusted pet sitter or boarding facility.

Local Resident Surrenders 52 Cats to Second Chance

Last Friday, we took in 52 cats from a single local home—one of the largest intakes in in recent history. The cats were surrendered by a well-meaning resident who had been rescuing homeless cats over time but was no longer able to care for them due to medical issues.

Though none of the cats were spayed, neutered, or vaccinated, they were clearly loved and cared for.

Delta arrived with her seven kittens. This family will live with one of our amazing fosters until they are old enough for adoption.

These cats are remarkably well-socialized according Danielle Bowes, our foster coordinator & adoption counselor. Many of them came right to the front of the cage for head boops and attention. Among the group is a mother cat with seven kittens who have already been placed in a foster home.

The cats received exams from Second Chance Shelter Veterinarian Dr. Jackie Celmer and her team, who began the process of updating vaccinations and identifying those in need of further medical treatment. Two underweight kittens and a pregnant mom will also be heading into foster care, while twelve cats are being treated for upper respiratory infections. The rest will soon be scheduled for spay and neuter surgeries.

With this many cats, the medical care quickly adds up. these cats require hundreds of vaccines, two weeks of medication for upper respiratory infections, and specialized care for underweight and pregnant cats. They also need foster care, food, litter, and daily staff support. Based on initial examinations, the total cost is expected to exceed $18,000.

We’re asking for the community’s support to defray this large expense and also, once they are ready for adoption, to adopt these wonderful cats.

Puddles, one of the tiniest of the rescue weighing in at just 1.5 lbs, is being treated for a painful abscess.

Contributions can also be made through the Second Chance Facebook page, or by mail to Second Chance, 111 Young Road, East Brookfield, MA 01515.

We know this pet owner truly cared for these animals but sometimes compassion alone isn’t enough. That’s when we step up, thanks to the support of people who believe in giving every pet the chance they deserve.

If you’re hoping to adopt one of these rescued cats, keep an eye on our adoptable cat page where they will be listed as they become available, alongside many other wonderful pets still waiting for homes.

JUNE 19th UPDATE:

One of the first cats to arrive at the adoption center

Duck was one of the first of the group to be adopted

The flurry of activity continues, caring for this special group of cats and kittens. The first group arrived at the Adoption Center in East Brookfield where some of them have already found homes. Sadly, we learned that the cat that was initially thought to be expecting was found to be carrying a non-viable litter.

Yesterday 7 from the group traveled to our satellite adoption center at the Northborough PetSmart where 5 lucky felines quickly found their new families. River and Lobster are looking forward to finding their forever homes at Northborough PetSmart Saturday with adoption hours from 10am to 1pm. We’ll also be bringing some of this group to the Framingham PetSmart satellite tomorrow ahead of Saturday’s 2-5pm adoption hours.

To see all the available cats, visit our adoptable cats page.

River, 4-month-old male Currently at Northborough PetSmart

Lobster, 1.5-year-old male Currently at Northborough PetSmart

JUNE 26th UPDATE:

Amazing sews! Over 30 of this group of special cats have found homes. The cats that were being treated for URI have recovered. One cat still has an eye ulcer that is not quite healed yet but much improved. The others are doing great and underwent spay and neuter surgery. We are so grateful for your support for this special group of cats.

Here we have Ocean, now called Nyx. His momma says he’s super cuddly with her. He’s such a love and he never stops purring!

MEET SOME OF THE CATS WAITING FOR HOME

Love Heals: Bacio’s Inspiring Journey

Seeing Bacio today, it’s hard to imagine the pain he once endured. His days are filled with sunshine, snuggles with his cat siblings, and the joys of living with a loving family. But his journey to this happy ending started with heartbreak.

Bacio, then known as Pogo, came to us with a devastating injury. This sweet, gentle cat had been shot. We may never know how or why, but we knew one thing: He needed urgent care. Our medical team acted fast to relieve his pain. Second Chance surgeons were not able to save his injured leg. But we could save him. And through it all–through surgery, recovery and rehab–this resilient cat never stopped being sweet and trusting. His spirit carried him through.

Once he had healed, the next step was finding him a home. It didn’t take long. His new family saw the same spark in him that we did. They gave him a new name: Bacio, the Italian word for kiss, in honor of the kisses he likes to give. And most importantly, they gave him a new life filled with affection, companionship, and second chances.

Today, Bacio is thriving with his new family. He’s a reminder of why we do what we do.

Every year, Second Chance helps thousands of pets just like Bacio—animals with stories that didn’t begin happily, but can still have a joyful ending.

Watch Bacio’s journey in this short video:

We need your help to feed more pets!

Did you know that donating pet food to food pantries is one of the simplest ways to keep pets OUT of shelters?!

Right now, more of our neighbors are skipping meals, cutting medications in half, or turning off their heat so they can afford to take care of their dogs or cats. For many, it won’t be enough & they’ll still have to say goodbye to a pet they love. YOUR donations today could help us change that.

Last year, Second Chance Animal Services gave enough pet food to local food pantries to feed 16,000 dogs & cats, helping keep them out of shelters & with those who love them the most. Now, we have a chance to double the number food we donate to local pantries each year.

Each week volunteers come to our tiny, overcrowded building to prepare pet food to distribute to 20 Massachusetts food pantries. With just a little more space, we could store much more donated food. We could host more food prep volunteers, more often. In short, we could feed thousands more dogs & cats each year. We’ve got the plans in hand, and we’ve already raised close to $50,000 of the $250,000 we’ll need. Now we just need you!

Together we can help keep more pets hungry and happy….and at home with the people who love them. Now is the time to give. Can you help?

Please watch the video for details. We know times are tough for many and if you aren’t able to give, we’d ask that you consider instead sharing this email with friends and family. Every bit helps.

We—and innocent pets like Kyla—are so grateful for your help and your support. Thanks!

Double the Love, Double the Joy

Why Bonded Pairs Make the Best Companions

When you adopt a bonded pair, you’re not just giving two pets a loving home—you’re preserving a lifelong friendship. These duos have already formed a deep emotional connection, providing each other with comfort, confidence, and companionship through every step of life. That bond can help them transition more easily into a new home, reducing stress and offering them a built-in best friend as they settle in. For adopters, it means twice the love and half the guilt when life gets busy—they’ll always have each other when you’re away.

Bonded pairs also bring a beautiful balance into your home. Whether it’s a high-energy pet matched with a more reserved buddy, or two snugglers who prefer life on the quiet side, their personalities often complement each other in the best ways. Watching their unique dynamic unfold is both heartwarming and endlessly entertaining. And best of all? We’re offering special adoption discounts on all our bonded pairs to help these inseparable friends find the forever homes they deserve.

Scroll down to meet the wonderful pairs currently waiting for their second chance:

They’ve already found their best friend—now they’re waiting to find you!

Zeus (8) & Princess (11) – Adoption Fee $200 (Princess has cancer with average survival time of 19 months)

Meet Zeus & Princess! These adorable petite seniors are searching for their forever home — together! Zeus and Princess have done well with other dogs, cats, and older kiddos in the past (with proper introductions, of course). Zeus is a playful guy who LOVES a good game of fetch and will be your best alert system for new visitors. Princess is a little more independent but oh-so-sweet — a true gentle soul. She does have a few medical needs, so please call the shelter to learn more. These two are ready to fill someone’s home with love, loyalty, and snuggles during their golden years. Could it be yours?

Bentley (5) & Roxie (7) – Adoption Fee $450 ($100 Discount)

Say hello to Roxie and Bentley, two best friends looking for their forever home – together! These adorable pups are a perfect mix of cuddles, charm, and playful fun.

Roxie, a 7-year-old Shih Tzu mix, is the sweet, nurturing one. She’s recently had a dental and is feeling better than ever. Roxie loves gentle attention, soft blankets, and being close to her humans. She’s a mellow girl with a heart of gold.

Bentley, a 5-year-old Yorkie mix, brings the playful energy! He loves a good game of tug-of-war and has a joyful, fun-loving personality that lights up every room. Bentley is outgoing, affectionate, and always up for an adventure – or a lap to curl up on afterward.

These two were lovingly surrendered by their elderly owners who could no longer care for them due to their own health issues. Roxie and Bentley have always had each other, and they must be adopted together to keep that special bond strong.

Pee pad trained ~ Playful but easygoing ~ Lovers of laps, naps, and together time

If you’re ready to open your heart to two sweet companions who are full of love and ready for a fresh start, Roxie & Bentley are waiting! Apply to adopt this adorable duo today – double the love, double the joy

Ranger (9) & Roxie (11) – Adoption Fee $300 ($100 Discount)

Roxy and Ranger are a heartwarming bonded pair who are looking for a forever home together. These two beautiful Shelties complement each other perfectly – Roxy is a gentle, quiet soul who blossoms with patience and love, while Ranger is an outgoing, friendly guy who lights up every room he walks into.

Ranger (9 years) is full of charm and loves meeting new people. He’s affectionate, curious, and always ready for a stroll or some playtime. His joyful personality makes him a favorite everywhere he goes.

Roxy (11 years) is the quieter half of the duo. She can be a bit shy at first, but once she feels safe, she enjoys quiet companionship and gentle affection. She’s looking for someone who will give her the time and space to come out of her shell.

Both pups are currently at the shelter and will be adopted through our Foster-to-Adopt program while we address their medical needs. We’ll cover their care and keep you informed every step of the way as we get them feeling their best.

They’re house-trained and walk beautifully on leash, they do not have much cat experience or with young children. We think they would be ok with older kids. They’re happiest together and we are committed to keeping them that way.

Ideal Home:

A calm, loving environment
Fenced yard or regular walks, the love rolling in the grass and sniffing everything
A family or individual willing to adopt both Roxy and Ranger
Patience to let Roxy adjust at her own pace

These two are a perfect blend of sweetness, companionship, and classic Sheltie charm. If you have room in your heart and home for a bonded pair, Roxy and Ranger would love to meet you!

Two Years, Six Days

An open letter to my dog, Roxie.

by Second Chance volunteer Mike

It was 2 years and 6 days that you spent in the shelter. And you eventually adjusted to shelter life, you finally let more and more people into your social circle. Two years filled with stress and anxiety; I hope the 2-3 days a week that I visited and took you out were the best parts of your week because they were the best part of mine. It was two years of doing the best you could with what you were given. We didn’t know what your future was going to look like, but we knew it was going to take a specific person to take you home, someone to put in the time, to earn your trust, to give you freedom and let you make choices on your own. You needed to feel safe. We knew the person that gave you your second chance was going to have to understand a dog like you with big feelings and be able to love you for who you are and not what they wanted you to be.

I remember Bethany, Second Chance’s adoption councilor and staff trainer, telling me about you and I just knew I had to meet you. You’re my kind of dog. Folks at Second Chance know the dogs I gravitate towards. I like the dogs that bark and growl and snap. I’ve spent a lot of time learning about dogs like you and learning from you. I know most dogs like you are just scared and confused and trying to fit into a world that is ever changing around them and just trying to make sense of it all. Once upon a time you would have been the dog so many people wanted in their home, loyal and protective and vigilant and vocal. Once upon a time we wanted dogs like you, for security, for protection. But now we punish dogs like you for exact instincts we selected for them.

I remember meeting you and bringing a peanut butter Barkpouch and you licked it and growled at me and barked and then licked some more peanut butter and you kept your eyes on me the whole time. I realized that you were more comfortable in an open space where you had freedom of choice so we spent time in the grassy yard. I realized you loved squeaky stuffies and loved to play. I remember how goofy you looked dancing around the stuffed animal. I remember how afraid you were of me just putting the leash on you or touching you around your head so we worked on all your fears, slowly and carefully, and with a bit of patience we overcame so much together.

Do you remember the first time we got into the car and the first time we tried to take a walk. Do you remember the woods you wouldn’t walk in, the trails you froze up on. The time after time I sat on the ground waiting for you to feel safe so we could move forward or head back to the car.

I remember being so proud the first time you walked the trails with your nose on the ground and not a care in the world. You walked with so much pride and intent and purpose. I remember that day like it was yesterday. Just to be part of that day gave me so much peace and I saw the real special individual you so desperately needed to be. To watch you grow and blossom and come out of your shell. I knew then we had something to work with and maybe your future wasn’t so bleak. But there aren’t a lot of people out there for a dog like you. And I know that.

When we first met, I didn’t have a house, I was living in an apartment that did not allow dogs. When we first met, I had just said goodbye to one of my favorite shelter dogs as she went home with her new family and I lost some very important people in my life during those times. I needed you then as much as you needed me. I saw you become a better version of yourself and you helped me become a better version of myself. So, I had a mission, I decided to buy us a house. I know there are not a lot of people out there that would do this for a shelter dog and I know that it seems crazy to buy a house for a dog. It wasn’t that I needed to buy you a house; you made me realize that I needed a house to give you a home.

And I know, you’ll never be that friendly neighborhood dog, you’re not going to be a dog park dog and I’m ok with that. You’re not the dog the greets strangers with a big grin and a wagging tail and I’m ok with that. But you’re a smart dog and you arehappy in my world and I am happy to have you in it. You’re goofy dog and silly dog and you’re a loving dog to the people you let in. And for 2 years and 6 days you were a shelter dog. But now as I write this and you sleep by my feet in a house that you made a home, I feel like you are now the dog you were meant to be. My dog.

Welcome home. Roxie.

Just a personal note to anyone reading this….

To all the people out there that say they don’t have time for a dog, that it wouldn’t be fair to take a dog home and be at work half the day. If you have the space, and a soft bed, or a comfy blanket and the means to fill a food bowl and water dish. There is a dog out there for you. A senior dog that doesn’t need a lot of time and even appreciates alone time. A nervous dog that just needs a little love and attention. Even though the shelter staff love and care for these amazing pups, they would still do better in a home even if it’s just a good meal and soft pets and some chill time in front of the TV. You don’t need a big home, or a big car, or big bed. You just need a big heart.

The shelter staff is well equipped to help you find that rare gem or that senior dog that you just might need just as much as the need you. Please consider adoption.

Roxie enjoying the cat bed

Discussing some ground rules with her new sibling

Shelters Are Full—Now More Than Ever, Preparation and Patience Are Key

As shelters and rescues across the country continue to operate under immense strain, Second Chance is calling on the public to take a thoughtful, long-term approach to pet adoption. The organization is using this moment to raise awareness of the daily realities facing shelters—and to emphasize that preparation, patience, and commitment are essential to making adoption truly forever.

Right now, shelters are full — dealing with a flood of emergency cases, owner surrenders, and pets with medical or behavioral challenges. Our teams are working around the clock, and one of the best ways the public can help is by making informed, committed decisions when bringing a pet home.

What Shelters Are Facing Behind the Scenes
While the public sees the happy faces of adopted pets, they may not realize the complexity of what happens behind the scenes. Every day, shelters like Second Chance are treating pets with life-threatening injuries, managing behavioral rehabilitation, responding to cruelty cases, and supporting families in crisis who don’t want to give up their beloved pets but feel they have no other choice. Space is limited, resources are stretched, and the need is constant.

Why Preparation Matters
Adopting a pet is a wonderful act of compassion, but it also comes with responsibility. Second Chance encourages prospective adopters to take the time to understand what a pet truly needs—not just in the first week, but for years to come. Considerations should include time for training, cost of veterinary care, lifestyle compatibility, and willingness to provide patience during the pet’s transition into their new home.

Adjustment Takes Time
Many adopted pets need a period of decompression. A new environment, unfamiliar people, and changes in routine can be overwhelming. Some pets may hide, act out, or show signs of stress. This is normal. Second Chance emphasizes that patience, consistent routines, and gentle reassurance can go a long way in helping pets settle in and thrive.

Ask for Help Early
One of the most important things adopters can do is reach out for help at the first sign of trouble. “So often, issues that lead to a return could have been resolved with early support,” said Blancato. “Whether it’s a training need, anxiety, or just an overwhelmed pet parent, we’re here to help. But we need people to ask for that help before it becomes a crisis.”

Returns Are Sometimes Necessary—But Space Is Limited
Second Chance remains committed to being a no-kill shelter. That means no pet is euthanized for time or space—but that also means every kennel is a lifeline, and space must be managed carefully. The shelter does accept returns, when necessary, but urges adopters to exhaust all support options first. Pets who pose safety concerns, such as those with a history of unprovoked aggression, may not be eligible for rehoming—making early intervention even more critical.

Before surrendering to any shelter, be sure that you understand the policies of that shelter. Open admission shelters accept every animal brought to them, regardless of age, health, behavior, or space availability. While this ensures pets in need have a place to go, it can lead to difficult decisions, including euthanasia when space or resources run out. In contrast, no-kill shelters like Second Chance commit to saving every adoptable and treatable animal, only considering euthanasia in cases of severe illness or aggression that cannot be safely managed. Because no-kill shelters do not euthanize for space, they often operate at or near capacity and must manage admissions carefully to ensure they can continue providing high-quality care and support for every animal they take in.

Supporting Pets and Their People, For Life
Adoption is just the beginning. Second Chance provides affordable veterinary care through its Community Veterinary Hospitals, as well as access to behavioral support and community outreach programs. The organization stands beside its adopters, offering guidance every step of the way.

We believe in second chances—for pets and people alike. If you’re thinking about adoption, we encourage you to take that step. Just make sure you’re ready for the commitment and know that we’re here to support you.

Some Heroes Have Four Legs, But They Need a Human to Believe in Them

It’s been six months since Second Chance Animal Services rescued 27 small dogs from a heartbreaking situation with an overwhelmed owner. While many of these dogs have found loving homes, a few are still waiting—for someone special who understands that healing takes time.

These dogs didn’t grow up like most. They missed out on early socialization, and everyday things like walking on a leash, greeting strangers, or even understanding the concept of a couch are completely new. They’re learning what it means to feel safe, to trust, and to be loved.

They’re not broken. They’re just discovering the world for the first time.

They’re adorable and people fall in love with their photos, but it takes more than love to help them thrive. They need time, patience, and consistency. These dogs didn’t get to live normal lives before, and now they’re making up for lost time.

Some of the dogs have been returned due to behavioral challenges, not because they were “bad” dogs, but because they weren’t ready for environments that expected them to know things they’ve never learned.

Take Dash, for example. He bonded deeply with his new owner—so deeply that he began guarding her from everyone else. He wasn’t trying to be difficult; he was scared and doing what he thought he needed to do to stay safe. Dash is now back with Second Chance, learning to feel secure in a world that once overwhelmed him.

Dash is a great example of how trauma can affect behavior. He’s not a bad dog—he’s scared and trying to protect the only thing he knew. He’s now learning that he’s safe, and that there’s a bigger world out there where he can feel secure.

These dogs are not for everyone. But for the right person, they will be everything.

They need experienced, patient adopters who understand that progress may come in inches, not miles—but who also know the deep joy that comes from watching a frightened dog grow into their confidence.

Lily’s new home is filled with big toys and even bigger love. Every day, she shows us what a little patience and a lot of heart can do.

This journey is one that some at Second Chance know firsthand. One of these dogs, Lily, was adopted with full awareness of the challenges she faced. It took four months just to get Lily to understand housebreaking rules, but now she’s doing great. She loves her human and her canine and feline siblings, and she’s getting better every day.

She’s still frightened of strangers but typically seeks the safety of her humans or canine family. She slowly gets curious, and as long as people give her space, she’ll eventually come forward out of curiosity. In time, she’s expected to be more accepting of strangers in the house. She is the sweetest.

Once she discovered the doggie toy box, it was like a whole new world opened up. Now, she’s obsessed with carrying around stuffed animals twice her size and chewing on toys meant for much bigger dogs. She brings laughter with her antics every day, and it’s heartwarming to see her discovering joy in things she never had before. Being part of her new world is a true honor.

These dogs may not come housebroken. They may not know how to greet you with a wagging tail. But with the right person, they’ll give something far more rewarding: the transformation that comes from trust, built one gentle moment at a time.

If you’re the kind of person who believes in second chances—and you’re ready to be the steady presence these dogs need—we’d love to hear from you!

Adopt. Foster. Donate.

Help us write the next chapter in their story.

Those interested in adopting or fostering can learn more on our Adoptable Dogs page.

Donations are also welcome to support continued behavioral training and care for dogs like Dash who are still on their path to a forever home.

A Crisis in Animal Welfare: Why Adoption Rates Are Falling—And How Second Chance Is Leading the Way Forward

In communities across the country, animal shelters and rescues are sounding the alarm: adoptions are down, intakes are up, and the system is buckling under the weight. It’s a crisis unlike anything we’ve seen in years—and it’s not just about numbers. It’s about people, priorities, and the hard questions facing animal welfare today.

Fewer people are stepping forward to adopt pets, and the reasons are as complex as they are concerning. Many families are hesitant to take on the commitment of a pet in uncertain times. Rising costs of living, concerns about long-term responsibilities, and the fear of unexpected veterinary expenses are leading more would-be adopters to walk away—and more families to make the heartbreaking decision to surrender a beloved pet.

At Second Chance Animal Services, we believe that simply asking people to adopt more isn’t enough. We need to change the landscape of animal welfare to address the root causes of the crisis. That’s why we’ve chosen the road less traveled—an approach that doesn’t just focus on finding homes, but on keeping pets in their homes in the first place.

Through our Access to Care initiative, Second Chance provides affordable veterinary care, vaccine clinics, and pet food support to help families weather tough times. We know that the number one reason people surrender pets is lack of resources. By removing barriers to care, we’re tackling one of the biggest drivers of shelter overpopulation head-on.

While some larger groups have turned to free adoption promotions in an effort to increase placements, we approach this trend with thoughtful caution. While well-intentioned, these campaigns can strain smaller shelters and rescues that depend on modest adoption fees to fund lifesaving work. These smaller organizations are often on the frontlines in their communities, offering individualized care, local support, and flexible adoption options that national campaigns may overlook.

Free adoption promotions can be helpful when used thoughtfully—for example, when a donor steps up to cover the fees as a way to inspire more adoptions. That kind of support allows us to remove barriers for adopters while still ensuring we can provide quality care for every animal.

We believe every pet deserves a loving home—but we also believe that home should be ready, informed, and supported. Adoption fees, while modest, help cover the cost of medical care, spay/neuter surgeries, and vaccinations. More importantly, they symbolize a commitment—a small but meaningful investment that shows an adopter is ready to take the journey with their new companion.

At Second Chance, we’re not waiting for a national solution. We’re creating one right here in Massachusetts and beyond. Our model is built on prevention, access, and community. It’s not the easiest path, but it’s one that’s changing lives—both human and animal—every single day.

We invite our community, our supporters, and anyone who believes in the power of the human-animal bond to stand with us. The future of animal welfare isn’t just about getting pets adopted. It’s about building a world where fewer pets end up in shelters to begin with.

Second Chance Animal Services: Taking Action. Changing Lives. Leading the Way.

Celebrating our No-Kill Status and Commitment to Every Life

Second Chance is celebrating another year as a no-kill shelter, maintaining a 99% save rate and helping 56,000 pets in the past year to live better lives. Every day, with your help we are making a profound difference—giving homeless, sick, and injured pets a second chance at happiness and ensuring families can stay together through lifesaving care and support. We are committed to every animal life through our innovative programs, including a compassionate approach for pregnant pets.

At Second Chance, we believe that every life matters. Every pet deserves love, care, and a chance to thrive. We will never stop fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves.

Second Chance safeguards animal lives through several key initiatives. First, our robust spay/neuter program helps prevent overpopulation by providing accessible services for pets to get these services. We also offer a compassionate program specifically for pet owners who discover their pet is already pregnant. This program focuses on saving both the mother and her unborn offspring, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. By guiding pet owners through the process and offering vital resources, Second Chance’s adoption center ensures that every life is given a chance from the very beginning. While Second Chance does not spay a pet known to be pregnant, the organization offers innovative options to help save all lives, ensuring that both the mother and her offspring receive the necessary care and find responsible homes. Once the puppies or kittens are of age, Second Chance will spay the mother to prevent future litters and further reduce pet overpopulation.

Beyond spay/neuter services, Second Chance operates a variety of programs aimed at keeping pets and families together. From affordable veterinary care and vaccine clinics to a pet food pantry program and emergency medical assistance, the organization is committed to addressing the root causes of pet homelessness and suffering. These efforts reduce the number of animals at risk and reinforce Second Chance’s promise to protect and advocate for every life.

Second Chance Animal Services is very proud to have a 99% no-kill status, reflecting its dedication to saving as many lives as possible. The organization is committed to transparency and encourages the public to learn more about no-kill status in Massachusetts by visiting the Best Friends website at https://bestfriends.org/no-kill-2025/animal-shelter-statistics/massachusetts. Second Chance openly shares its statistics and celebrates the incredible work being done to ensure every pet has a chance at a loving home.

Our mission goes beyond just sheltering animals. It’s about changing lives—saving those in need, preventing unnecessary suffering, and giving every pet a fighting chance. Every pet we save, every family we help stay together, and every life we touch brings us closer to a world where no pet is left behind.

Second Chance Animal Services invites the community to join in their life-saving mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every effort helps ensure that every pet has a chance at a loving home.

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