Dakin Humane Society Sells Leverett Property to Better Together Dog Rescue

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society announced the sale of its property located at 163 Montague Road in Leverett to Better Together Dog Rescue, an organization based in Western Mass. and Northern Conn.

The 3,480-square-foot building in Leverett is located on five acres of land. It had been operated by Dakin Humane Society until March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck and the organization consolidated its operations in its Springfield location to operate at maximum efficiency.

According to Meg Talbert, executive director of Dakin Humane Society, “before the pandemic, more and more animals were being placed in foster homes, since they simulate a home environment, are less stressful for animals, and can accommodate those pets who have additional needs. Thanks to so many dedicated foster caregivers, we reduced our need for the additional shelter space that the Leverett property provided. We are pleased to see that the property will be owned by another nonprofit organization. The building’s structure and surroundings are especially ideal for an animal-welfare organization.

“Dakin remains committed to providing much-needed services in Hampshire and Franklin counties, like supplying pet food to the Northampton and Amherst Survival Centers, assisting pet owners and animal-control units by taking in cats and dogs when hoarding or other pet emergencies arise, and arranging ‘snip trip’ rides to our community spay/neuter clinic for pets whose people cannot make the drive to Springfield,” Talbert added. “We are eager to explore additional partnerships and opportunities to provide Dakin’s services and resources to Upper Valley pets and their people in the future.”

Jenny Franz, founder of Better Together Dog Rescue, said the organization “is thrilled to finally have a home. Our mission to support dogs and the people who love them will continue to grow within the facility. We cannot wait to open our doors to the public.”