Donate Archives - Second Chance Animals

We need your help to feed more pets!

Did you know that donating pet food to food pantries is one of the simplest ways to keep pets OUT of shelters?!

Right now, more of our neighbors are skipping meals, cutting medications in half, or turning off their heat so they can afford to take care of their dogs or cats. For many, it won’t be enough & they’ll still have to say goodbye to a pet they love. YOUR donations today could help us change that.

Last year, Second Chance Animal Services gave enough pet food to local food pantries to feed 16,000 dogs & cats, helping keep them out of shelters & with those who love them the most. Now, we have a chance to double the number food we donate to local pantries each year.

Each week volunteers come to our tiny, overcrowded building to prepare pet food to distribute to 20 Massachusetts food pantries. With just a little more space, we could store much more donated food. We could host more food prep volunteers, more often. In short, we could feed thousands more dogs & cats each year. We’ve got the plans in hand, and we’ve already raised close to $50,000 of the $250,000 we’ll need. Now we just need you!

Together we can help keep more pets hungry and happy….and at home with the people who love them. Now is the time to give. Can you help?

Please watch the video for details. We know times are tough for many and if you aren’t able to give, we’d ask that you consider instead sharing this email with friends and family. Every bit helps.

We—and innocent pets like Kyla—are so grateful for your help and your support. Thanks!

Some Heroes Have Four Legs, But They Need a Human to Believe in Them

It’s been six months since Second Chance Animal Services rescued 27 small dogs from a heartbreaking situation with an overwhelmed owner. While many of these dogs have found loving homes, a few are still waiting—for someone special who understands that healing takes time.

These dogs didn’t grow up like most. They missed out on early socialization, and everyday things like walking on a leash, greeting strangers, or even understanding the concept of a couch are completely new. They’re learning what it means to feel safe, to trust, and to be loved.

They’re not broken. They’re just discovering the world for the first time.

They’re adorable and people fall in love with their photos, but it takes more than love to help them thrive. They need time, patience, and consistency. These dogs didn’t get to live normal lives before, and now they’re making up for lost time.

Some of the dogs have been returned due to behavioral challenges, not because they were “bad” dogs, but because they weren’t ready for environments that expected them to know things they’ve never learned.

Take Dash, for example. He bonded deeply with his new owner—so deeply that he began guarding her from everyone else. He wasn’t trying to be difficult; he was scared and doing what he thought he needed to do to stay safe. Dash is now back with Second Chance, learning to feel secure in a world that once overwhelmed him.

Dash is a great example of how trauma can affect behavior. He’s not a bad dog—he’s scared and trying to protect the only thing he knew. He’s now learning that he’s safe, and that there’s a bigger world out there where he can feel secure.

These dogs are not for everyone. But for the right person, they will be everything.

They need experienced, patient adopters who understand that progress may come in inches, not miles—but who also know the deep joy that comes from watching a frightened dog grow into their confidence.

Lily’s new home is filled with big toys and even bigger love. Every day, she shows us what a little patience and a lot of heart can do.

This journey is one that some at Second Chance know firsthand. One of these dogs, Lily, was adopted with full awareness of the challenges she faced. It took four months just to get Lily to understand housebreaking rules, but now she’s doing great. She loves her human and her canine and feline siblings, and she’s getting better every day.

She’s still frightened of strangers but typically seeks the safety of her humans or canine family. She slowly gets curious, and as long as people give her space, she’ll eventually come forward out of curiosity. In time, she’s expected to be more accepting of strangers in the house. She is the sweetest.

Once she discovered the doggie toy box, it was like a whole new world opened up. Now, she’s obsessed with carrying around stuffed animals twice her size and chewing on toys meant for much bigger dogs. She brings laughter with her antics every day, and it’s heartwarming to see her discovering joy in things she never had before. Being part of her new world is a true honor.

These dogs may not come housebroken. They may not know how to greet you with a wagging tail. But with the right person, they’ll give something far more rewarding: the transformation that comes from trust, built one gentle moment at a time.

If you’re the kind of person who believes in second chances—and you’re ready to be the steady presence these dogs need—we’d love to hear from you!

Adopt. Foster. Donate.

Help us write the next chapter in their story.

Those interested in adopting or fostering can learn more on our Adoptable Dogs page.

Donations are also welcome to support continued behavioral training and care for dogs like Dash who are still on their path to a forever home.

A Crisis in Animal Welfare: Why Adoption Rates Are Falling—And How Second Chance Is Leading the Way Forward

In communities across the country, animal shelters and rescues are sounding the alarm: adoptions are down, intakes are up, and the system is buckling under the weight. It’s a crisis unlike anything we’ve seen in years—and it’s not just about numbers. It’s about people, priorities, and the hard questions facing animal welfare today.

Fewer people are stepping forward to adopt pets, and the reasons are as complex as they are concerning. Many families are hesitant to take on the commitment of a pet in uncertain times. Rising costs of living, concerns about long-term responsibilities, and the fear of unexpected veterinary expenses are leading more would-be adopters to walk away—and more families to make the heartbreaking decision to surrender a beloved pet.

At Second Chance Animal Services, we believe that simply asking people to adopt more isn’t enough. We need to change the landscape of animal welfare to address the root causes of the crisis. That’s why we’ve chosen the road less traveled—an approach that doesn’t just focus on finding homes, but on keeping pets in their homes in the first place.

Through our Access to Care initiative, Second Chance provides affordable veterinary care, vaccine clinics, and pet food support to help families weather tough times. We know that the number one reason people surrender pets is lack of resources. By removing barriers to care, we’re tackling one of the biggest drivers of shelter overpopulation head-on.

While some larger groups have turned to free adoption promotions in an effort to increase placements, we approach this trend with thoughtful caution. While well-intentioned, these campaigns can strain smaller shelters and rescues that depend on modest adoption fees to fund lifesaving work. These smaller organizations are often on the frontlines in their communities, offering individualized care, local support, and flexible adoption options that national campaigns may overlook.

Free adoption promotions can be helpful when used thoughtfully—for example, when a donor steps up to cover the fees as a way to inspire more adoptions. That kind of support allows us to remove barriers for adopters while still ensuring we can provide quality care for every animal.

We believe every pet deserves a loving home—but we also believe that home should be ready, informed, and supported. Adoption fees, while modest, help cover the cost of medical care, spay/neuter surgeries, and vaccinations. More importantly, they symbolize a commitment—a small but meaningful investment that shows an adopter is ready to take the journey with their new companion.

At Second Chance, we’re not waiting for a national solution. We’re creating one right here in Massachusetts and beyond. Our model is built on prevention, access, and community. It’s not the easiest path, but it’s one that’s changing lives—both human and animal—every single day.

We invite our community, our supporters, and anyone who believes in the power of the human-animal bond to stand with us. The future of animal welfare isn’t just about getting pets adopted. It’s about building a world where fewer pets end up in shelters to begin with.

Second Chance Animal Services: Taking Action. Changing Lives. Leading the Way.

An Update on 13 Adorable Malinois Puppies

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.”

Proceeds from our annual Auction Gala ensure that pets like these magnificent pups can get the care they need so that they get the second chance they deserve.

Buddy Needs Your Help to Beat Heartworm!

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!

Donate today to help Buddy beat heartworm!

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!

The Importance of End-of-Year Giving

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12 Days of Second Chances 2024

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

Day 1 – Bella

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

Bella’s adoption photo.

Storm

Day 2 – Storm and Houston

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

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

Day 3 – Clarissa & Charlie

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

Day 4 – Community Outreach

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

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

Day 5 – Grace Kelly

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

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

Grace has found love in her new home.

Day 6 – 13 Malinois Puppies

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

Day 7: Sophie

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

Day 8 – Tsunami

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Rocky, KJ, Iris & Laura

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

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

Day 10 – Esmeralda & Friends

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

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

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

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

Day 11 – Ribbet

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

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

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

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

Day 12 – Tim

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is a PetPal Champion?

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

The Power of Recurring Giving

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

More Than Just a Donation

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

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

Why Now?

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

Become a PetPal Champion Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is GivingTuesday?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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