MA Shelters Extend Fee-Free Adoptions After Nor'easter Weekend Washout

SALEM, MA — The MSPCA-Angell and three shelter partners in Massachusetts are extending their fee-free adoptions for certain dogs to this weekend after last week's nor'easter washed out the event designed to open shelter space across the state.

The MSPCA-Angell and three shelter partners — Boston Animal Control, Lowell Humane Society, and Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center — are waiving adoption fees for all dogs that weigh at least 40 pounds from Friday through Sunday.

"Considering how unpredictable and wild the weather in this area can be, it’s almost shocking that we've never had this kind of impact from a storm before," said MSPCA-Angell Project Manager Jamie Garabedian. "We were able to adopt out 56 dogs across the 10 participating shelters, which is great, but it's a far cry from our goal of 100.

"We believe that a lot of people who were considering adopting may have been unable to come in due to the high winds and seemingly endless rain last weekend, so we’re rebooting it."

Hill's Pet Nutrition is sponsoring the redux fee-free event as part of its Home Sweet Homecoming adoption campaign.

"Our adoption fees cover so much beyond basic care," Garabedian said. "All our dogs work with behavior staff to help ensure they'll be successful in their new homes. The fees also cover spay/neuter and vaccines, and more advanced care for dogs that need it, like those who need dental work.

"All in all, waiving fees is no easy feat, so we're really fortunate to have a partner like Hill's to help make it possible."

Adoption fees will be waived for all dogs that weigh at least 40 pounds, including any larger puppies.

"We're focusing on our larger dogs because they face unique challenges in getting adopted," Garabedian said. "First, there's a huge problem with breed and size restrictions in rental housing, which is something that we're working incredibly hard to change through our Action for Pet-Inclusive Housing initiative.

"Plus, there's often a misconception among potential adopters that all larger dogs have the same needs, which are several long walks a day and constant play time. While it's true that some larger dogs — and smaller dogs are like that — some are actually couch potatoes. Dogs, like people, are unique, so we're hoping that people are inspired by this event to consider all the dogs in our care."

Fees will be waived at all four MSPCA-Angell adoption centers (in Boston, Salem, Methuen, and Centerville on Cape Cod), plus Boston Animal Control, Lowell Humane Society, and Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center.

Hours vary by location. More information can be found here.