Adopt Archives - Second Chance Animals

A Special Moment on ABC World News Tonight

We were honored to be included in a heartwarming moment on ABC World News Tonight with David Muir following our recent visit to New England Patriots Training Camp.

As the broadcast wrapped up, our own Lindsay McCormack shared how grateful Second Chance Animal Services is to the New England Patriots Foundation for inviting our adoptable dogs to Training Camp. It was an incredible opportunity to introduce these wonderful pups to football fans while helping shine a national spotlight on pet adoption.

We’re thankful to the Patriots Foundation for their support and for giving our dogs another chance to find the loving homes they deserve.

Watch the clip below, and if one of these pups captures your heart, we’d love to help you meet them.

Summer Vacation Foster Program Off to a Great Start, More Dogs Are Still Waiting

ADOPTION DAY: Zeus, our first Summer Vacation Foster dog was quickly adopted.

When we launched our Summer Vacation Foster Program, we hoped to give shelter dogs a chance to enjoy some time away from the shelter while helping us learn more about them in a home environment.

We’re thrilled to report that the program is making a difference. Several of the dogs who were ideal matches for our first round of foster applicants have already headed off to their summer homes. Better yet, four dogs who participated in the program – Zeus, Khaleesi, Cuddles, and Lisa – have already found forever homes of their own.

As successful as the program has been, there are still dogs hoping for a summer vacation.

The dogs still waiting need a more specific type of foster home, which means finding the right match. We’re hoping to hear from people who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• No children under 18 in the home
• No other pets in the home
• Open to fostering a dog over 40 pounds
• Have a fenced yard

Not every dog is the right fit for every home, and our goal is to make the best possible match for both the dog and the foster family. If you meet any of the criteria above, you may be exactly what one of our waiting dogs needs.

The Summer Vacation Foster Program offers short-term fostering opportunities, typically lasting 2 to 8 weeks. Second Chance provides support throughout the fostering experience, and foster families enjoy the rewarding experience of helping a shelter dog relax, learn, and prepare for a future home.

If you’d like to help give a shelter dog a summer vacation, we encourage you to complete an application today. The perfect match could be waiting for you.

What’s involved?

• Short-term fostering (2–8 weeks)
• Giving a dog time to decompress in a home environment
• Providing one-on-one attention and love
• Helping us learn more about their personality to find the perfect forever home

Foster Requirements:

• Live within 30 minutes of one of our Second Chance Vet Hospitals (Southbridge, North Brookfield, Worcester, or Springfield)
• If renting, have landlord approval and know any pet restrictions
• Be willing to share your foster dog on social media and/or attend adoption events or meet & greets when possible

Once you submit your form, we’ll try to match you with a dog that fits your home and schedule. You’ll have a chance to meet before committing—so you can feel confident bringing your temporary companion home.

Click HERE to get started

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

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.

10 Lucky Pups Heading to Foxborough for the Pawtriots “TailGate” Adoption Event October 19th

Join Second Chance at the Patriots Foundation Pawtriots “TailGate” Oct. 19 at Patriot Place — football, family fun, and adoptable dogs await!

Second Chance is teaming up with the New England Patriots Foundation and the Kraft family for the Pawtriots “TailGate” at Patriot Place on Sunday, October 19! Join us for a fun-filled day of football, family activities, and adoptable dogs looking for their forever homes.

We’re deeply grateful to the Patriots Foundation for shining a spotlight on shelter pets and helping more animals find the love and care they deserve. Events like this make such a difference, not just for the pets who find homes, but for the awareness they build around the importance of adoption and access to affordable veterinary care.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at Patriot Place on October 19 to support this incredible event — and congratulations to all who met your new best friend!

Second Chance is excited to join the New England Patriots Foundation and the Kraft family for the upcoming Pawtriots “TailGate” at Patriot Place in Foxborough on Sunday, October 19. This special event will celebrate pet adoption and give families the opportunity to meet some amazing dogs looking for forever homes — all while cheering on the Patriots!

The Pawtriots initiative was launched earlier this year by the Patriots Foundation to promote adoption and raise awareness about the growing need for loving homes for shelter pets. The kickoff event at Patriots Training Camp was an incredible success, with every featured dog finding a home. We’re thrilled to continue that momentum and bring ten Second Chance dogs to this next big adoption event.

The Pawtriots “TailGate” begins at 11:30 a.m., with the Patriots vs. Tennessee Titans game kicking off at 1:00 p.m.Fans are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the game on the big outdoor screen and make a day of it! The event will also include appearances by Patriots Alumni and Super Bowl Champions Brian Hoyer and David Andrews, Pat Patriot, and the Patriots Cheerleaders, along with music, face painting, airbrush tattoos, interactive games, and food trucks — something for the whole family to enjoy.

As part of the event, the Patriots Foundation invites fans to bring pet food, toys, collars, and leashes to donate in support of local shelters and animals in need.

A special meet and greet area will also be set up for families interested in meeting our adoptable dogs. If you already have a dog at home, we encourage you to bring them along for a meet and greet — these introductions help ensure that everyone, both two- and four-legged, is comfortable and compatible, setting the stage for a happy, lasting match.

Abandoned Cats Highlight Urgent Need for Fosters and the Crisis Facing Local Shelters

Last week, two cats were abandoned in a urine-filled crate left at our mailbox in broad daylight. Thankfully, they were discovered right away and are now safe in our care, but this heartbreaking act highlights a painful truth: animal shelters across Massachusetts are overwhelmed, and pets are paying the price.

Our hearts break knowing that someone felt they had no choice but to leave those cats behind. We understand how overwhelming it can feel when you’re struggling and don’t know where to turn. But leaving a pet alone is never safe. It puts them at great risk, and under the law, it is considered abandonment. Most importantly, it does not guarantee that your pet will get the help they need.

Right now, every shelter in the state is stretched beyond capacity. We have faced the agonizing reality of having to turn away young litters of kittens because no foster homes were available. Imagine being forced to say “no” to tiny, fragile lives simply because there was nowhere safe for them to go. That’s the crisis we are in.

The truth is, this isn’t just about shelters—it’s about our community. Every time a pet is left at our door, another pet waiting for help is delayed. We want to help every single animal, but without more foster homes, our hands are tied.

Foster families save lives. When you open your home temporarily, you create space for another pet to enter our shelter. Whether it’s a litter of kittens who need bottle feeding, a cat recovering from surgery, or a dog who just needs a safe place to rest, fosters give us the ability to say “yes” to a pet in need.

If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time. Our community needs you. The animals need you. And we will support you every step of the way with training, supplies, and a team ready to answer questions.

Learn more about becoming a foster and sign up here: www.secondchanceanimals.org/foster-care/

Together, we can make sure no pet is left without safety, care, and hope.

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!

July 16th UPDATE:

One month ago, 52 cats found hope when they came to Second Chance from a single home. Thanks to amazing adopters, 34 have already found their forever families!

A sweet mama and her 7 kittens are growing strong in foster care and will be ready next month, but 10 wonderful cats are still waiting for someone to open their heart and home.

Could that someone be you? Come meet them and see if your new best friend is one of them!

MEET SOME OF THE CATS WAITING FOR HOME

Visit soon to help complete their second chance story.
Second Chance Adoption Center – 111 Young Road, East Brookfield
MONDAY 10 am – 3 pm
TUESDAY 10 am – 3 pm
WEDNESDAY 10 am – 3 pm
THURSDAY 10 am -3 pm & 5-7 pm
FRIDAY 10 am – 3 pm
SATURDAY 10 am – 4 pm
CLOSED ON SUNDAY

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:

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