Local Resident Surrenders 52 Cats to Second Chance Animal Services
EAST BROOKFIELD — Second Chance Animal Services has taken in 52 cats surrendered by a well-intentioned local resident who had been rescuing homeless cats but is now facing medical issues. Although none of the cats were spayed, neutered, or vaccinated, they were loved and cared for.
“These cats are remarkably well-socialized. Many of them came right to the front of the cage for head boops,” said Danielle Bowes, foster coordinator and adoption counselor at Second Chance. Among the group is a mother cat with seven babies, who have already gone into a foster home.
The cats received exams from Second Chance shelter veterinarian Dr. Jackie Celmer and her team, who began the process of updating vaccinations and identifying those in need of further medical treatment. Two underweight kittens and a pregnant mom will also be going to foster homes, while 12 cats are being treated for upper respiratory issues. The remaining cats will be scheduled for spay and neuter surgery in the coming weeks.
“With this many cats, the medical care quickly adds up,” said Lindsay Doray, chief Development officer at Second Chance. “In addition to 52 spay and neuter surgeries, these cats require hundreds of vaccines, two weeks of medication for upper respiratory infections, and specialized care for underweight and pregnant cats. They also need foster care, food, litter, and daily staff support. Based on initial examinations, the total cost is expected to exceed $18,000. We’re asking for the community’s support to defray this large expense and also, once they are ready for adoption, to adopt these wonderful cats.”
Second Chance is accepting donations to help defray the cost of care. Contributions can be made online at secondchanceanimals.org, through the Second Chance Facebook page, or by mail to Second Chance, 111 Young Road, East Brookfield, MA 01515.
“We know this pet owner had the best of intentions,” Doray added. “Sometimes compassion alone isn’t enough to keep up with the needs of so many animals. That’s where Second Chance steps in, thanks to the generosity of our supporters.”
Second Chance asks those interested in adopting one of the rescued cats to watch the adoption page at secondchanceanimals.org/adopt, where they will be posted as they become available, alongside many other pets currently looking for homes.