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!
Every year, our limited edition, special color hoodies sell out fast—and now’s your chance to be first in line! By ordering your hoodie, you’re not just getting cozy apparel—you’re making a difference. A portion of every sale directly supports Second Chance’s mission to help pets in need across Massachusetts and beyond.
Two colors to choose from:
At Second Chance Animal Services, we believe every pet deserves a healthy, happy life. From providing life-saving medical care to offering affordable services that keep pets in their homes, we work tirelessly to support pets and the people who love them. What started as a small rescue has grown into a comprehensive organization that’s transforming the lives of thousands of animals each year. Your support through Hoodies that Help will change the lives of pets in need.
Second Chance Animal Services is proud to announce the expansion of its veterinary team and the addition of new programs aimed at tackling the root causes of animal suffering and surrender. This strategic move underscores Second Chance’s commitment to saving more lives by addressing issues before they lead to surrender or abandonment.
As part of this expansion, Second Chance is adding more veterinarians to its team, enabling the organization to offer increased access to affordable veterinary care, preventive services, and essential resources like pet food pantries. These efforts are designed to keep pets healthy and in their homes, reducing the need for them to be surrendered to shelters.
“While adoptions are a critical aspect of animal welfare, they address the problem after it has occurred,” said Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services. “Our focus is on prevention—keeping pets out of shelters in the first place by addressing the root causes of their suffering and surrender.”
Key Benefits of the Root Cause Approach:
– Prevention Over Reaction: By offering affordable veterinary care and essential resources, Second Chance prevents issues that often lead to surrender, such as financial hardship or lack of access to medical care. This proactive approach saves more lives by reducing the number of animals that end up in shelters.
– Keeping Families Together: Financial constraints are a leading cause of pet surrender. Second Chance’s expanded services help families maintain their pets, preventing the emotional trauma of separation and ensuring pets remain in loving homes.
– Reducing Shelter Overcrowding: Addressing the root causes of surrender helps reduce the number of animals entering shelters, alleviating overcrowding and improving the chances of successful adoptions for those animals that do need new homes.
– Comprehensive Care for Lifelong Well-being: The addition of more veterinarians allows Second Chance to provide continuous care, ensuring that pets remain healthy throughout their lives, which in turn reduces the likelihood of surrender.
– Community Outreach Impact and Education: Second Chance’s programs providing services directly in the community such as vaccine clinics help to prevent disease. Second Chance’s educational program in schools help to teach children about safety around pets and responsible pet ownership, the importance of preventive care, and the resources available. This education is also provided at community outreach events to give pet owner this knowledge which empowers the community to make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of future surrenders and promoting a culture of care and compassion.
– Breaking the Cycle of Surrender: By addressing financial and health challenges at their source, Second Chance is breaking the cycle of surrender, ensuring that pets stay in stable, loving homes where they can thrive.
– Long-Term Cost Savings: Preventing surrenders through affordable care is more cost-effective than rehoming surrendered animals, allowing Second Chance to allocate more resources toward expanding these life-saving programs.
– Holistic Animal Welfare: This expanded approach reflects a holistic model of animal welfare, focusing not just on rescuing and rehoming animals but also on ensuring that pets in homes stay healthy and cared for.
Transforming Lives, One Pet at a Time
The expansion of services and the addition of veterinary staff are central to Second Chance’s new “Transforming Lives: One Pet at a Time” campaign. This initiative is designed to raise awareness and funds to support the organization’s efforts to tackle the root causes of animal suffering. Through this campaign, Second Chance aims to engage donors and the community in creating a sustainable model of animal welfare that ensures more pets live long, healthy, and happy lives with their families.
“We’re excited to be at the forefront of innovative animal welfare solutions,” added Blancato. “Our expanded programs and services are a testament to our commitment to saving lives in a more effective and compassionate way.”
Second Chance Animal Services, 111 Young Road, East Brookfield, MA 01515
We are pleased to announce that 23 small dogs rescued earlier this month from an overwhelmed owner have all found their forever homes. Seven of these dogs are in foster-to-adopt arrangements as they complete ongoing veterinary care. However, the work is far from over, as the nonprofit has just taken 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. All but one dog have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and treated for other medical issues. These once-neglected dogs are now on the path to healthier, brighter futures.
We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from our community. 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. Donations ensure we can continue providing life-saving medical care, shelter, and hope for pets in crisis, like Esmeralda and like Moana, who is awaiting specialized surgery for cherry eye.
Your donation today will help us be ready for the next emergency, ensuring every pet in crisis gets the second chance they deserve. Your gift will support the animals still in our care and help prepare for future rescues.
As you may have seen in the news, Second Chance recently stepped in to assist an overwhelmed pet owner, taking in 23 small dogs in need of urgent care. We are currently assessing and treating these pups, and are preparing them for adoption.
The dogs, all under four years of age and weighing 10 pounds or less, are a mix of Maltese, Poodle, Yorkie, and Shih Tzu breeds. The dogs, 14 males and 9 females, are currently receiving the care they need, including spay/neuter surgeries, treatment for fleas, vaccines, testing, and other medical needs. With so many animals needing care, your support is more crucial than ever.
They’re settling in, becoming more social, and finally receiving the love and attention they deserve. Some dogs, like Moana, need extra care, including dental procedures, treatment for ear infections, and surgery for conditions like cherry eye. Your generosity will help Moana and others like her get the treatments they need to thrive.
After another round of baths, they’re looking extra cute, and their fur is beginning to regrow. Some are still a little shy, but they’re blossoming under the care of our team.
These pups are getting healthier every day, and we expect some to be ready for adoption by as early as Friday. We estimate the total cost of care for these dogs to be around $15,000, which includes spay/neuter surgeries, vaccines, and any medical treatments they may need. With your help, these dogs will have a bright future, full of love and companionship.
Your generosity, no matter the amount, will make a lasting difference in their lives. Thank you for being a part of their journey to health and happiness!
Mass. animal shelter needs help after 23 dogs surrendered all at once – Boston.com
Funds needed to support 23 dogs surrendered to local animal shelter – WWLP
Not all cats are the cuddly type—some just prefer a good space where they can enjoy their freedom and do their own thing. If you’ve got a barn, workshop, or warehouse in need of a little rodent control, we’ve got a few fabulous, independent cats who would be perfect for the job. These low-maintenance ladies aren’t your typical house cats—they thrive in bigger spaces where they can live on their terms. And during September, their adoption fees are only $50! Here’s the lineup:
Lauren : Think of Lauren as the strong, silent type. She’s not big on affection but will tolerate a head scratch every now and then. Mostly, she just likes her space.
Mittens : Mittens is a bit like Lauren—she’ll let you know when she’s in the mood for a head scratch, but she’s just as happy doing her own thing.
Prada : Prada’s more on the shy side. She’s not a fan of physical touch, but if you’ve got a large, safe space, she’ll find her groove and be right at home.
These cats are perfect for anyone who understands that not every feline is a lap cat. They’re independent, low-key, and ready to take on rodent patrol in exchange for a safe place to live. If you’ve got the room and the right environment, these girls would love a shot at living their best lives with you.
Ready to give one of them a forever home? Reach out to us at adoptions@secondchanceanimals.org to learn more!
We are excited l to announce that supporter Tito’s Handmade Vodka – the Vodka for Dog People – has stepped up after hearing our urgent plea for help during an unprecedented week, when we found ourselves caring for four shelter pets needing critical surgeries to end their suffering. Tito’s issued a $5,000 challenge match for the month of September to assist with the care of these and other shelter pets in need of urgent medical attention.
The match comes at a critical time, as late last week, another shelter pet was surrendered by local animal control in need of extensive medical care. Johnny, a one-year-old cat, is suffering from a fractured leg and a suspected fractured tooth.
Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Together, with Tito’s support, we can make a real difference for these pets and many more.
This week has been incredibly challenging for us at Second Chance. We’ve had an unprecedented influx of animals with urgent medical needs, and we need your help to give them the best care possible.
Rocky: This 14-week-old sweet and playful kitten needs a right front leg amputation. Rocky came to us in pain from an old, non-healing fracture that won’t get better on its own. Amputation will bring him the relief he desperately needs.
KJ: A 13-week-old Husky full of energy and love, KJ needs a left front leg amputation. Despite being a happy pup, KJ is in significant pain from an elbow fracture. Amputation is the best option to get him back to playing without pain.
Iris: A 1-year-old domestic short hair cat, Iris is a bit shy but incredibly sweet. She’s been limping on her right rear leg due to a complex, old fracture. Amputating her leg will finally end her long-term pain and give her a chance at a happy, pain-free life.
Laura: An energetic 8.5-year-old Pug, Laura is facing several challenges. She needs her painful, enlarged eye removed due to glaucoma and a cataract, and she’ll be spayed at the same time. Once she heals, Laura also needs extensive dental work. Despite her medical needs, she’s still full of love and energy.
This week has truly been a test of our resources, both emotionally and financially. We want to give Rocky, KJ, Iris, and Laura the care they deserve, but we can’t do it alone. Your donations will directly support their surgeries, medications, and aftercare.
We are keeping them as comfortable as possible and hope to perform their much-needed surgeries within the next week.
Please consider donating today to help us provide the life-saving surgeries these animals need. Any amount makes a difference in their journey to a pain-free life. Thank you for your support and compassion!
We’re excited to share the latest edition of our Second Chance Newsletter! It’s packed with heartwarming stories of the animals we’ve helped, along with details on upcoming events you won’t want to miss.
Thank you for being a part of the Second Chance family. Together, we’re making a real difference!
READ NOW
Together, we help over 49,000 pets a year to live better lives.
Get ready to rev your engines because the highly anticipated Cruise for Critters is returning to Westview Farms Creamery on Saturday, September 21st! Now in its 12th year, this beloved car show, proudly presented by Al Widlan, owner of Service Connection, is set to make another meaningful impact on the lives of pets in need at Second Chance Animal Services.
For over a decade, Al Widlan has been the driving force behind this remarkable event, rallying car enthusiasts and compassionate hearts alike to come together for a worthy cause. Cruise for Critters has become a beacon of hope for furry companions across Massachusetts, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever.
This year’s Cruise for Critters is packed with fall-themed activities for attendees of all ages. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a pet lover, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, there’s something for everyone.
Car Show: Car enthusiasts, don’t miss the chance to showcase your vehicles at this great end of season show and contribute to a cause that truly makes a difference.The car entry fee is just $20 per vehicle, with every dollar going directly to the betterment of pets’ lives.
Vendor Fair: Explore a captivating vendor fair filled with unique items of all kinds. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local businesses.
Halloween Barktacular: Back by popular demand, the Halloween Barktacular kids’ games are sure to delight the little ones. Thanks to our dedicated Second Chance volunteers, this event will be an unforgettable experience for children and families alike.
Autumn Adventures: From pumpkin picking to navigating through a corn maze, Westview Farms Creamery offers a delightful autumn adventure for all guests. Enjoy great food, ice cream, and live music by the Barberic Band, who will provide the perfect soundtrack for the day.
This event is made possible by the generous support of sponsors and vendors. We need your help to make this year’s Cruise for Critters the best one yet! We’re calling on local businesses and vendors to join us in supporting pets in need. Becoming a sponsor or a vendor at this event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business while contributing to a great cause.
The festivities kick off at 10 am and continue until 3 pm, and spectators are welcome free of charge. And don’t worry about the weather—if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, we’ve got a rain date set for Saturday, September 28, 2024. So, mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us for a day of fun, community, and support for a great cause. We can’t wait to see you there!
