Vet Services Archives - Second Chance Animals

Behind the Paw: A Behind the Scenes Career Experience

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/

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

Help Your Fluffy Friend Stay Warm This Winter with a Pre-Season Grooming

Winter is on its way, and for many double-coated dogs, that means one thing: their fur is about to work overtime. Before the cold settles in, a simple grooming appointment can make a world of difference in helping your pet stay comfortable, healthy, and truly winter-ready.

Our groomers see it every year – thick undercoats, early mats, and pups who start collecting snow like little four-legged magnets. While all that fluff may look cozy, tangled or impacted fur can actually prevent a dog’s coat from insulating the way nature intended.

Why Pre-Winter Grooming Matters

A seasonal grooming helps your dog:

Remove excess undercoat that can trap moisture or cause discomfort
Prevent mats that tighten in winter weather and may hide skin irritation
Maintain proper insulation (a clean, untangled coat keeps warmth in and cold out!)
Stay cleaner indoors, with less shedding and fewer “snowballs” stuck to their legs and belly

There’s a common myth that skipping grooming keeps double-coated breeds warmer. In truth, a well-maintained coat is far better for temperature regulation. When the fur is clean and brushed through, it creates the natural barrier your pet needs in cold weather.

A Little Care Now Makes the Whole Season Easier

A pre-winter grooming session is an easy way to help your pet feel their best before the snow starts flying. Our groomers take a gentle, health-focused approach to every appointment—because keeping pets comfortable is part of how we support families and the community.

Ready to Book?

Winter grooming appointments tend to fill quickly. You can schedule online at:
https://www.secondchanceanimals.org/grooming/

Or book by phone.

North Brookfield: 508-637-1333

Southbridge: 774-318-1101

Springfield: 413-739-2343

Give your fluffy friend a comfortable start to the season—because even the warmest hearts need a little help staying warm on the outside.

The Secret to a Happier Cat: Why Enrichment Matters More Than You Think

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.

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

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

Fireworks and Noise Anxiety

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

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

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

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

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

Traveling With Your Pet

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

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

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

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

Celebrating our No-Kill Status and Commitment to Every Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Turning Animal Welfare Upside Down

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.

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.

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!

Cold Laser Therapy at Second Chance

Our Southbridge and North Brookfield Community Veterinary Hospitals offer laser therapy. Laser therapy is an alternative therapy to medicine which offers many benefits. This therapy uses light waves to activate cells and promote growth, proliferation, migration and repair of tissue. This is a pain free treatment that can help with many conditions which include but are not limited to: arthritis, ear infections, ligament injuries, muscle injury, and aiding in post-operative healing. The main benefits include decreased inflammation, decreased pain, and improved tissue healing.

We are happy to offer individual treatments as well as therapy packages for long term therapy. Please call your preferred hospital location if you are interested in this service.