Second Chance Resumes Low-cost Spay/Neuter Program

NORTH BROOKFIELD — Second Chance Animal Services is taking on many challenges in resuming low-cost spay/neuter services at its three nonprofit veterinary hospitals. The popular program that offers pet owners an affordable option to have their pet fixed was put on hold as the COVID-19 pandemic began affecting the region in March, postponing hundreds of appointments indefinitely. As critical supplies became more readily available, Second Chance focused efforts on carefully resuming the program.

The Springfield and Worcester spay/neuter programs fully resumed in late May, while the North Brookfield program remains limited to accommodate the increased need for emergency surgeries at this time. With some veterinary hospitals still closed or limiting services, Second Chance continues to see twice its normal caseload of emergencies.

“We really, really hated to suspend several of our programs like spay/neuter because we know just how much pet owners rely on them, and how important they are to the health of pets in our community,” Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato said. “There are currently hundreds of applications awaiting scheduling on top of rescheduling postponed appointments. We regret the unavoidably long wait. We’re doing everything we can to get caught up as quickly as possible.”