animal, Author at Second Chance Animals

The Importance of End-of-Year Giving

When it comes to donations and volunteers, every little bit helps, especially during the holiday season. In fact, nearly 40 percent of donations to charities and other organizations happen in the months of November and December.

As the year comes to a close, we’d like to remind you just how important end-of-year giving is to a nonprofit like Second Chance Animal Services.

With your help, Second Chance Animal Services is able to provide shelter and care to over 55,000 pets a year. Your donations help sheltered pets get the medical care they need so they are ready for adoption. You also help our hospitals provide subsized rates to ensure that those who qualify have access to the full-service veterinary care. Without you, we wouldn’t be able to support so many animals in the ways that we do.

Many donations made at the end of the year are matched by employers or other participating companies. Check with your employer to see if they are offering donation matches in support of end-of-year giving – this way, you could double your impact!

End-of-year giving is a great way to set us and other nonprofits up for success in the new year. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and support causes and organizations that you deeply care about. If you’re interested in giving to Second Chance Animal Services, click here. In addition to donations, you can also help local animals through fostering, volunteering, sponsorship, physical item donations, planned giving, and more.

End-of-year giving doesn’t just benefit us – it can also help you! Not only are you making a difference in the lives of precious animals, but your donations may be tax-deductible for the 2024 tax year if made prior to December 31st, 2024.

Any contribution, big or small, makes a huge difference in the lives of animals looking for their second chance. Donate today!

An Update on Our Worcester Hospital: A Call for Patience and Support

Our Worcester hospital has been impacted by fire damage caused by an issue originating outside of our building. For the safety of our staff, clients, and their beloved pets, this location is closed today and will remain closed while necessary repairs and inspections are completed.

We are deeply committed to ensuring uninterrupted care for our Worcester clients. During this time, we are welcoming them to our Southbridge and North Brookfield hospitals, where we are working tirelessly to accommodate appointments and ensure continuity of care. The external issue is being addressed by National Grid and other agencies, and we are collaborating closely to resolve the situation. However, the timeline for reopening remains uncertain, and we want to proactively make arrangements for our patients in the interim.

While insurance will cover some of the damages, we’ve been informed that not all expenses will be reimbursed. We are reaching out to our community for help in getting this location back on its feet. Your support will allow us to reopen stronger than ever, continuing to serve pets and their families with the care they deserve.

If you need assistance or wish to reschedule an appointment, please call one of our locations. We are also monitoring our Worcester phone lines, emails, and texts from these locations to provide ongoing support.

Thank you for standing with us during this challenging time. Together, we can ensure that our Worcester hospital returns better than ever, ready to provide exceptional care for the pets who rely on us.

12 Days of Second Chances 2024

Welcome to our “12 Days of Second Chances,” where we’ll look back at heartwarming stories of pets we’ve helped this year, thanks to your incredible support. Each day, we’ll highlight a story showcasing how your generosity transforms lives. Check back daily for updates!

Day 1 – Bella

Bella, a young Shih Tzu mix, arrived at Second Chance in late December, suffering from unbearable pain. One of her hind legs was severely injured, and X-rays revealed the other was fractured. To relieve her pain, she underwent emergency surgery to amputate the more damaged leg. Thankfully, our veterinarians were optimistic that her other leg would heal completely. With the devoted care of our team and her foster family, Bella made an incredible recovery and found her forever home by the end of January. Your generosity made Bella’s second chance possible—thank you for transforming her life!

Bella’s adoption photo.

Storm

Day 2 – Storm and Houston

Storm, a 7-year-old pit bull, was diagnosed with pyometra when she fell seriously ill. Her owners couldn’t afford the $8,000 estimate they were given elsewhere and drove from New York to Second Chance for help. We provided the life-saving surgery she needed just before a snowstorm hit. Her owner was beyond grateful and reported that Storm is back to her old self, thanks to your support.

There wasn’t a dry eye in the shelter as we sent Houston off to start his new life. This 8-year-old lab mix spent over a year in the shelter awaiting his forever home and had become like family. Watching him finally get his second chance was a moment we’ll never forget. Thank you for making his big day possible.

Day 3 – Clarissa & Charlie

Clarissa and Charlie, two kittens born with severe eye defects, came to us in pain and discomfort. With your help, we treated their infections and provided surgery to remove their small, abnormal eyes, improving their quality of life. They found a loving home together and their family sends us update from time to time including this great Halloween photo. Thank you for helping these sweet kittens find their second chance.

Day 4 – Community Outreach

As the weather warmed up, we kicked off our community vaccine clinics and Homebound to the Rescue visits. We traveled across central and western Massachusetts, bringing life-saving vaccines, microchips, and veterinary services to seniors and low-income pet owners.

Your support helps us keep pets healthy and at home with the families who love them.

Day 5 – Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly, a brave young shelter kitten, arrived at Second Chance with multiple injuries, including a fractured pelvis, tail, and femur. After undergoing surgery and weeks of rehabilitation, Grace found her forever home.

Her new family reports she’s a cuddle bug who hasn’t stopped purring since arriving. Thank you for giving Grace Kelly her second chance.

Grace has found love in her new home.

Day 6 – 13 Malinois Puppies

Thirteen adorable Malinois puppies came to us after their pregnant mother was rescued by a kind pet owner. With your help, we provided care until they were ready for adoption and helped them find homes to meet their unique needs. Today, all 13 puppies, including Pancake, the last to find a home, are thriving with their new families. Thank you for helping these puppies start their new lives.

Day 7: Sophie

Sophie, a 9-year-old Shih Tzu, came to us with a large abdominal mass. Surgery confirmed it was cancer. Despite this diagnosis, Sophie’s sweet spirit hasn’t wavered. She’s now in a hospice home, surrounded by love and comfort. Her new family is grateful to have her, and we’re thankful for your support, which made her second chance possible.

Day 8 – Tsunami

Tsunami, a sweet but shy 6-year-old domestic short hair, came to us after being hit by a car. Tsunami had abrasions on all four paws, deep bruising, and a severely injured tail caused by nerve damage. The injury was so bad that his tail had to be amputated, but this resilient boy never gave up.

With time, love, and expert care, Tsunami began to heal—and something beautiful happened. As his body recovered, so did his spirit. Though shy at first, Tsunami slowly came out of his shell, discovering the comfort of cozy cat beds and gentle affection from his human friends.

Tsunami found the loving home he always deserved. His new family shared, “Tsunami, now known as Bob, came home with me on November 1st. I wanted to let you know that he has settled in so well! He is very sociable now, and very affectionate. He’s the perfect gentleman and already has made this house his home. He’s also showing a bit of a goofy side, which makes me smile all the time I know he had a tough time this summer, so it’s even more heartwarming that he seems so happy and laid back in such a short time.”

Tsunami’s story is a testament to resilience—and the transformative power of your support. Thank you for giving him his second chance!

Day 9 – Rocky, KJ, Iris & Laura

The end of the summer brought us four incredible pets in urgent need of medical care in a single week. Rocky, a playful 14-week-old kitten, needed a right front leg amputation due to a painful, non-healing fracture. KJ, a 13-week-old Husky full of energy, also required a left front leg amputation for similar reasons. Iris, a shy but sweet 1-year-old cat, had been limping from an old, complex fracture. Surgery to amputate her leg has brought her relief and the chance at a pain-free life. Finally, Laura, an energetic 8.5-year-old Pug, faced multiple medical challenges, including a painful, enlarged eye requiring removal and extensive dental work. Her resilience has been inspiring, and she continues to spread love wherever she goes.

It was a busy time for our surgery team, but thanks to your support, these four pets got the care they needed to start their journey toward brighter futures.

Day 10 – Esmeralda & Friends

In early October, we rescued 23 small dogs from an overwhelmed owner. Several were in foster-to-adopt arrangements as they completed ongoing veterinary care. Late in the month, we took in four additional dogs from the same case that were initially thought to have placements, including one with significant medical needs.

Among the new arrivals is 8-year-old Esmeralda, a timid dachshund mix. She came to Second Chance under-socialized and fearful, but her gentle nature is starting to emerge. Esmeralda required surgery to repair a large hernia during her spay, and pre-surgical bloodwork revealed she is heartworm positive. Her treatment for heartworm, which can take 9–12 months, will be followed by a dental procedure. Her care alone is expected to total nearly $2,500.

The rescued dogs, a mix of Maltese, Poodle, Yorkie, and Shih Tzu breeds, were brought in under urgent circumstances. Thanks to the generous support of the community, they quickly received the medical attention they needed.

These once-neglected dogs are are so grateful for their second chances and we are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from our community that made this all possible. Because of your generosity, the original group of dogs are settling into new homes. Your donations made this possible, and we truly can’t thank you enough. The total cost to care for these dogs exceeded $15,000. This case reminds us just how critical ongoing support is to our mission.

Day 11 – Ribbet

Ribbet’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and the incredible power of community. This tiny Labrador Retriever puppy suffered unimaginable injuries after being rehomed outside of our adoption process, but thanks to the care of our veterinary team and the generosity of our supporters, Ribbet has made an amazing recovery.

When Ribbet returned to us, he faced life-threatening injuries that required emergency surgery. Despite losing both eyes and enduring a fractured skull, this brave pup showed an incredible will to live. With your support, Ribbet received the lifesaving care he needed, including follow-up surgeries and the loving guidance of his foster family.

Today, Ribbet is thriving! His foster family has officially become his forever family, and he’s learning how to navigate the world – including playing fetch with his jingle ball. His playful, loving spirit shines through, proving that even in the face of hardship, pets can heal with the right care and love.

His journey reminds us of the importance of every dollar donated—it’s because of you that Ribbet got his second chance.

Day 12 – Tim

Meet Tim, a sweet 3-year-old bulldog mix who found his way to Second Chance Animal Services after being surrendered. Little is known about his past, but Tim urgently needed our help.

Tim came to us with a lame hind leg, and after examining him, we found he requires surgery to correct the issue and relieve his pain. He was also underweight, had a skin infection, and was battling Lyme disease. These conditions had to be treated before he could safely undergo the knee surgery.

We’ve been able to keep Tim comfortable during his recovery process and his new foster sister is happy to help! He’s already put on weight, and his skin infection is improving. Tim’s upcoming surgery requires specialty plates to help him regain a healthy, active life.

Your generosity is giving Tim the second chance he so desperately deserves, and we can’t wait to see him running and playing again soon. Thank you for being a part of his journey to healing.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the 12 Days of Second Chances. Your generosity makes stories like these possible. Together, we’re transforming lives, one pet at a time.

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Second Chance, 111 Young Road, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515

Should You Give a Pet as a Gift?

Second Chance Offers a Better Way Welcome a Pet into Your Family this Holiday Season

In the heartwarming videos circulating every holiday season, the joy of receiving a surprise puppy or kitten is undeniable. The excitement is infectious, and you might be tempted to create a similar moment for a loved one this year. Second Chance Animal Services suggests a thoughtful alternative: consider a shelter visit as the gift of a lifetime.

While those viral videos capture the immediate happiness, Second Chance founder and CEO Sheryl Blancato emphasizes the unseen aftermath of pets surrendered to shelters shortly after festivities. The decision to bring a pet into your family is immensely gratifying, but it’s also a substantial commitment. Extensive research and careful consideration of your family’s lifestyle are critical. Owning a pet is a considerable responsibility, both when they’re young and as they age. Adopting a pet is a pledge for life.

Blancato advocates against surprising someone entirely with a pet. Of course, we hope all our pets will spend the holidays in their new homes, but we want them to find homes with committed, loving families ready to take on the responsibility of caring for their new, furry family member. Being surrendered back to a shelter takes a serious toll on animals. Witnessing them wait for their owner’s return is truly heartbreaking.

To encourage responsible pet adoption, Second Chance recommends gifting a pet bed or bowls accompanied by a note expressing your intent to explore pet ownership responsibly. A handmade gift certificate for a local shelter visit, paired with an informative book on pet care, can be an excellent present for young children. This approach ensures that the decision to welcome a pet is a well-informed and creates a memorable experience of the joy of going to the shelter together to choose the pet.

Join the Pack: How PetPal Champions Save Lives All Year Long

Our mission is to provide life-saving and life-changing services for pets in need. From providing affordable veterinary care to providing shelter for homeless animals, we work tirelessly to help pets live better lives. This would be possible without the generous support of our donors. Among them, our PetPal Champions hold a special place in our hearts.

What Is a PetPal Champion?

PetPal Champions are an extraordinary group of supporters who commit to recurring donations, whether monthly, quarterly, or at a frequency that suits their budget and goals. Their consistent gifts provide reliable funding that allows us to act quickly and effectively whenever pets need us most. Whether it’s providing medical care for a pet recovering from illness or assisting a domestic violence survivor through Project Keep Me, the impact of these recurring gifts cannot be overstated.

The Power of Recurring Giving

Predictable Funding for Vital Programs
Recurring gifts allow us to plan ahead. When we know support is coming in regularly, we can allocate resources where they’re needed most, ensuring pets receive the care they deserve without delay.
Immediate Action in Emergencies
Emergencies don’t wait, and neither do we. With a foundation of steady funding from PetPal Champions, we’re ready to step in when pets are in crisis, whether it’s due to natural disasters, medical emergencies, or unexpected surrenders.
A Greater Collective Impact
When you become a PetPal Champion, your recurring gift combines with others to create a powerful force for good. Together, these contributions transform lives, one pet at a time.

More Than Just a Donation

When you join the PetPal Champions, you become part of a compassionate community dedicated to making a difference. Every recurring gift, no matter the frequency, directly supports:

Affordable veterinary care for pets in underserved communities
Temporary housing and medical care for pets in crisis
Life-saving surgeries and treatments for pets in need
Community outreach and education programs to prevent pet homelessness

Why Now?

The need for support has never been greater. With rising costs and an increasing number of pets requiring assistance, your recurring gift can help ensure Second Chance can continue to meet the growing demand for our services. As a PetPal Champion, you’ll play a key role in helping us tackle the root causes of animal homelessness and keep pets where they belong – in loving homes.

Become a PetPal Champion Today

Joining is easy, and your impact is immediate. Whether it’s $10 a month, $50 quarterly, or another amount that works for your budget, every dollar makes a difference. Plus, recurring giving is convenient and flexible. You can set it and forget it, knowing you’re making a meaningful contribution to a mission you care about.

Let’s transform lives together. Sign up today and join a movement of dedicated animal lovers committed to creating a better future for pets and their families. Together, we can make sure every pet gets a second chance.

Give Love, Give Hope, Give the Gift of a Second Chance

The holiday season is here. As you deck the halls and prepare to gather with your loved ones in celebrations, remember the pets at Second Chance. The need is so great this year. Your gift can provide love and hope to a pet in crisis – giving them the gift of a second chance.

Give a meaningful gift in the name of someone you cherish. A donation in their honor is a unique and heartfelt way to celebrate the spirit of giving.

The need is great. Your contribution, big or small, will directly impact our ability to provide vital care, prevent unnecessary suffering, and keep families together.

What is GivingTuesday?

As the holiday season begins, you may know that Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday are coming up, but did you know that GivingTuesday is also right around the corner?

GivingTuesday began in 2012 with a simple goal: encourage others to do something good. Now, it’s an independent nonprofit and has turned into a global movement celebrated each year the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

Many businesses and nonprofits participate in GivingTuesday, urging participants to give back to their local communities through fundraisers or food drives. The day and movement are all about helping one another and promoting generosity.

This year, GivingTuesday falls on December 3rd. If you want to participate, consider finding a cause, nonprofit, or small business that you’re passionate about and researching what they need; whether that be monetary donations, physical donations, organizers, or volunteers.

There are no wrong ways to participate in GivingTuesday – random acts of kindness and helping a stranger are great ways to give back and inspire others. Learn more about how you can get involved this year by visiting: GivingTuesday.org.

If you’d like to include Second Chance Animal Services in your GivingTuesday plans, we’d be so grateful for your generosity and support. Consider making a donation by visiting our GivingTuesday page here.

Creating a Safe and Joyful Holiday Season for Pets

As Thanksgiving and the winter holidays approach, Second Chance Animal Services reminds pet owners to keep their pets’ safety in mind amid the festive cheer. While holiday meals, decorations, and gatherings bring joy to our homes, they can also pose unexpected hazards to our furry friends. A few simple precautions can ensure a safe, happy holiday season for pets and people alike.

Pets are part of the family, and it’s important to consider their safety during holiday celebrations. A little planning can prevent unexpected pet emergencies. Here are some tips to help you create a pet-friendly holiday environment.

Mindful Holiday Meals

Holiday treats can be tempting for pets, but many common ingredients can harm them. Foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, and bones are dangerous, and even rich, fatty, or spicy foods may cause stomach upset. To let your pet safely join in the festivities, opt for pet-safe treats or offer a small portion of their usual food, helping them feel included without the risk.

Pet-Safe Decorations

Holiday decor adds to the magic of the season, but some items can be risky for pets. Tinsel, ribbons, and ornaments may look like toys but can lead to serious health issues if swallowed. Consider pet-safe decorations and keep them out of reach of curious pets. If you’re decorating with candles, remember that open flames can be easily knocked over by a pet, increasing the risk of burns or fires.

Awareness of Seasonal Plants

Popular holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are beautiful but can be toxic to pets. Keep these plants out of reach, or choose pet-safe alternatives to prevent accidental ingestion. For those using artificial plants or trees, note that some contain chemicals that could be harmful if chewed.

Creating a Calm Space for Pets

The excitement of holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets, especially with new sounds, smells, and unfamiliar guests. Set up a quiet, comfortable space where your pet can retreat when they need a break. Remind guests to respect pets’ boundaries and avoid offering them table scraps. If your pet feels stress during gatherings, Second Chance veterinarians can help with advice on keeping them calm.

Identification and Microchipping

The increased activity around the holidays may raise the risk of pets slipping out the door and going missing. Make sure your pet’s collar has an up-to-date ID tag. For added security, consider microchipping them—it’s a simple and effective way to increase the chance of reuniting if they wander off.

Holiday Travel Prep for Pets

If holiday plans involve travel with pets, some extra preparation will help ensure a smooth journey. Confirm that your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date, and contact your veterinarian to schedule any needed boosters in advance. Pack essentials like food, water, medications, and a favorite toy to reduce travel stress. If you’re staying in hotels or with family, confirm that your accommodations are pet-friendly and secure.

By taking these simple, thoughtful steps, pet owners can enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season with their furry family members. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping pets happy, healthy, and comfortable during the festivities.

Second Chance Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester are currently accepting new patients and offer weekly low-cost vaccine clinics. See our Vet Care page to schedule a holiday check-up or register for a vaccine clinic.

Let’s make this holiday season safe and enjoyable for all family members, two- and four-legged alike!

Poorly Drawn Pets

Poorly Drawn Pets is back!

This fundraiser was so much fun, our volunteers are bringing it back again for a limited number of “Portraits.” For a $30 Facebook donation, one of our Second Chance volunteers will create a portrait from a pet photo you provide. Just remember, our volunteers are known for taking care of pets in need, so you never know what you’re going to get!

STEP 1: Make a donation here on the fundraiser

STEP 2: Email your pet photo to donations@secondchanceanimals.org.

Our volunteers will get to work and we’ll post your portrait along with the original here so you can share online.

We’ll drop you an email when your artwork is available for pick-up from our Community Engagement Center located behind our Southbridge hospital – 700 Worcester Street.

Exciting news to share!!

Thursday night at the DCU Center, we received both Best Veterinary Clinic and Best Pet Grooming Company in the 2024 Best of Central Mass Community Choice Awards.

Friday we were honored at the MassMutual Center as a recipient of the Springfield Regional Chamber’s 2024 Super 60 list in the Non-Profit category!

Thank you to everyone who cast your vote for Second Chance. We share these honors with our amazing staff, volunteers and supporters!

Together, we are Transforming Lives – One Pet at a Time.

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