Second Chance Founder & CEO Sheryl Blancato was honored as a member of the Class of 2025 Difference Makers by BusinessWest on April 9, 2025. Listen as she explains how Second Chance turned animal welfare upside down to make a real difference in the lives of pets.
On Saturday, March 29th, animal lovers came together at the AC Marriott in Worcester for the 26th Annual Auction Gala to support pets in need—and what a night it was!
Guests enjoyed an evening of community, compassion, and celebration. Hundreds of auction items found new homes through generous bidding, and the event featured a very special four-legged guest, Ribbet, who stole the show while making his way around the ballroom to greet supporters.
One of the biggest highlights of the night was the announcement of our pet food pantry building expansion—a vital project to meet the growing need in our community. We were thrilled to share that Tito’s Handmade Vodka generously matched the first $5,000 in donations, and an anonymous supporter has offered a $25,000 matching gift to help make this dream a reality. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the attendees, we’re on our way—but $14,000 remains to meet the match.
Help us reach our goal with a gift today
This inspiring video, premiered at our 26th Annual Auction Gala, shares real stories of pets whose lives have been forever changed—from lifesaving surgeries to second chances in loving homes. These transformations are possible because of your continued support.Together, we are breaking down barriers to veterinary care and keeping pets where they belong—with the families who love them.
We’re deeply grateful to our generous sponsors—including Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Embie Industries, and longtime Second Chance friend Joe Campisi—as well as the many local businesses and dedicated volunteers who helped make the event a success. And of course, a big thank you to everyone who attended or took part in the online auction.
Whether you joined us at the Gala, placed a bid in the auction, or support Second Chance in other meaningful ways throughout the year—thank you. Your compassion makes it possible for us to provide veterinary care, shelter, and vital programs to over 56,000 pets last year alone.
Every act of kindness brings us closer to a world where every pet gets the second chance they deserve.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Second Chance Animal Services Team
P.S. There’s still time to double your impact! Make a gift today and help us reach the match.
Last year, thirteen adorable Malinois puppies came to us after their pregnant mother was rescued by a kind pet owner. Thanks to your support, we provided the care they needed until they were ready for adoption, ensuring each found a home suited to their unique needs. Today, all 13 puppies—including Pancake, the last to be adopted—are thriving with their loving families.
As they approach their first birthday in April, some of their adopters have shared heartwarming updates and photos.
“He’s a great dog! Great markings, personality and very intelligent”
“We are so thankful to have adopted Pancake, now known as Watson! He LOVES to learn new skills, has mastered giving us the “puppy eyes” to get whatever he wants, and is always keeping us laughing at his very silly, yet very serious personality. Some of his favorite things are going to work with me, hanging out with us while we do barn chores, and trying to get away with some sort of trouble! He’s our best boy!”
“Forest (formerly Toast) is doing amazing!!! Getting big!”
“We adopted Oatmeal, who has been renamed to Jasper. We love him so much, and he loves us too, especially his brother dog, Milo. :)”
“My pleasure to give you an update on Loki ( a.k.a. Waffle). He is doing great! We keep him very active and attend Obedience and other dog training activities. He is doing good with other dogs and people and is very good with my pack at home. He is a big puppy now! We absolutely love and adore him. So pleased. I am so pleased with Second Chance Adoptions as well as Second Chance Vet Hospital in NB. You have all been the best!”
“Coco is doing very well! He is 82 pounds and loves to chew his beds and his brothers toys lol. He loves to go for long walks, run around the yard, drink water from the faucet and play with his human brother. He brought lots of happiness to our family.”
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
Transforming Lives: One Pet at a Time
Buddy is a sweet but timid 10-month-old Mini Australian Shepherd who recently arrived at Second Chance. He’s had a tough start—testing positive for heartworm, a completely preventable disease that will now require months of difficult treatment before he can find his forever home.
Heartworm treatment is expensive, and Buddy’s medical care alone will cost around $900. We’re asking for your help to give him the second chance he deserves. Buddy has a potential adopter waiting for him, but his heartworm diagnosis stands in the way of his happily-ever-after! Every donation, big or small, will go directly toward his treatment and recovery.
Let’s come together to help him heal so he can finally have the loving family he’s been waiting for!
Second Chance Community Veterinary Hospitals offer affordable care in North Brookfield, Worcester, Springfield, and Southbridge. Talk to your vet about heartworm prevention—it can save lives!
When we first introduced Ribbet’s story on November 11, we couldn’t predict the incredible journey ahead for this brave puppy. In the time since, thousands of you have shown your love and support, helping Ribbet overcome unimaginable challenges. You’ve cheered for every milestone, shared his story far and wide, and embraced him as part of the Second Chance family. Thanks to your kindness, Ribbet’s story became one of resilience, hope, and healing. We are forever grateful for the role you’ve played in giving him a second chance, and we look forward to keeping you updated as he begins his new life with his forever family.
Ribbet is doing amazing and getting SO BIG!
We received these adorable photos of Ribbet’s holiday visit to the groomer.
A note from Ribbet’s FOREVER FAMILY ❤️
“Thank YOU! He is such a special little guy and we love him so much. He slept a lot last week and it feels like he grew over night! He’s getting so big already. I have attached some pictures of him being goofy. Thank you all again!”
Following his latest X-rays, our veterinary team has confirmed that Ribbet’s skull fracture has healed properly, the swelling has resolved, and he is thriving. We are overjoyed to announce that with a clean bill of health, Ribbet has officially been cleared for adoption!
Ribbet’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. After suffering life-threatening injuries that required emergency surgery to remove both eyes, he has made a stunning recovery in the loving care of his foster family, who has now become his forever family. His new family has been teaching him how to play fetch with a jingle ball.
https://youtube.com/shorts/KA8Jutr18rw?feature=share
This is a testament to the resilience of animals and the incredible power of community support. Ribbet has shown us all that, with the right care and love, even the most challenging odds can be overcome. Thank you to everyone who made Ribbet’s second chance possible.
Stan Grossfeld of The Boston Globe takes you behind the scenes at Second Chance as we care for Ribbet.
AS I SEE IT
Exciting news! Ribbet got his stitches out and he’s headed to his foster-to-adopt home, where he’ll be showered with love and care as he continues his recovery journey. Thank you to all the incredible people who offered to welcome Ribbet into your lives. Choosing a home for him was no easy decision, especially with so many wonderful people ready to give him a fresh start.
In about 2.5 weeks, he’ll be back for a recheck to see how his skull fracture is healing. If everything looks good, he could be cleared for adoption soon! Many of you have asked about his long-term outlook, and we’re happy to report that, so far, there doesn’t appear to be any lasting damage. Follow-up X-rays will give us more information, but for now, we’re celebrating each milestone. Thank you all for being there for Ribbet every step of the way!
https://youtube.com/shorts/KA8Jutr18rw?feature=share
A sweet moment of Ribbet just being a puppy! Despite everything he’s been through, here he is playing with his foster siblings. Later this week, he has his surgery recheck and, paws crossed, he will get his stitches out!
Watching him play like this is a healing moment for all of us. Thank you for standing by Ribbet and cheering him on every step of the way! You have no idea how much your support means to all of us at Second Chance.
Ribbet has been busy exploring his foster home, and he’s proving to be one smart little pup. He’s already learned his way around despite his blindness. His playful spirit is shining through as he becomes more comfortable, and he’s even playing with his foster siblings like a true puppy!
Ribbet now has a new collar identifying him as blind, which will help others understand his special needs and approach him with care. Thank you for being part of his journey and for your support. Your gift is providing for Ribbet’s ongoing care, and donations exceeding the cost of his treatment will help other pets in need of medical support.
We are happy to report that Ribbet continues to make progress. Despite all he’s been through, he’s finding great comfort being in the company of the other dogs in his foster’s home. These older dogs have been so loving and super gentle with him. Here they are cuddling together.
Thank you all for your incredible support for Ribbet! We’re thrilled to share that, thanks to your generosity, we’ve fully unlocked the match offered by yesterday’s anonymous supporter. Every dollar raised will go directly toward Ribbet’s care, and donations exceeding the cost of his treatment will help other pets in need of medical support.
We’re monitoring Ribbet closely and are cautiously optimistic about his progress. He’s eating and drinking well, and some of the swelling has begun to subside. Thank you for keeping him in your thoughts as he continues his healing journey!
An anonymous supporter, moved by Ribbet’s story, generously offered to match the next $5,000 in donations.
Monday, November 11thWe are sharing this story for two reasons. First, we hope you’ll join us in supporting an innocent puppy, named Ribbet, on his long road to recovery. Second, we want to raise awareness of why shelters and rescues put essential safeguards in place to prevent tragedies and to highlight the risks of giving pets away without screening or proper introductions to other pets in the home.
A few weeks ago, a family adopted Ribbet, a tiny, two-month-old Labrador Retriever puppy, from Second Chance. Ribbet was meant to have a lifetime of love and security, but tragically, his life took a different turn. Against our adoption agreement, the family rehomed Ribbet on their own, placing him in a home with a much larger dog.
The outcome was devastating. The larger dog attacked Ribbet, delivering a bite so severe it crushed his tiny skull and damaged his eyes beyond repair. When Ribbet arrived at Second Chance, our dedicated veterinary team at our Second Chance Community Veterinary Hospital in Worcester, through their own tears upon seeing his injuries, leapt into action. They immediately performed emergency surgery to save his life, and while Ribbet’s injuries required the removal of both eyes, our team remains cautiously optimistic that he will recover from his fractured skull.
This tragedy underscores the vital importance of our adoption policies. Second Chance requires adopters to contact us if they can’t keep a pet, and we mandate meet-and-greet sessions with other pets in the household. These measures are in place to ensure that everything possible is done for each animal’s safety and well-being. When pets are rehomed without these safeguards, they face unnecessary risks that can lead to heartbreaking consequences.
Ribbet’s journey to recovery is far from over, and we have no clear idea of how long his care will be needed or what the total costs may be. We cannot share the initial pictures as they are too graphic but will share his journey and pictures as he recovers. We are committed to providing him with the best possible chance to heal and thrive, but we need your support. Every dollar raised will go directly toward Ribbet’s medical care. Should donations exceed the cost of his treatment, any additional funds will be used to help other shelter pets in need of medical care.
If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing Ribbet’s story and/or keeping him in your thoughts and prayers. Your kindness will give him, and others like him, a second chance at the safety, care, and love they deserve.
Donations can also be mailed to: Second Chance, 111 Young Road, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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 DecorationsHoliday 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.
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.
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.
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 PetsIf 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!
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.