Second Chance's spay/neuter program curbs pet overpopulation

Nonprofit has performed over 95,000 surgeries since 2005 to improve pet health and reduce homeless animals

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Second Chance Animal Services, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit, is highlighting the impact of its spay and neuter program during Spay and Neuter Awareness Month. Since the program began in 2005, Second Chance has performed more than 95,000 surgeries to improve pet health and reduce overpopulation. In 2025, the organization performed 8,747 spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats.

Why it matters

Spaying and neutering pets helps reduce the number of homeless animals entering shelters and decreases the risk of life-threatening diseases. Beyond population control, these procedures offer medical and behavioral advantages for pets.

The details

Second Chance's capacity has expanded significantly since the program launched 21 years ago. The team originally operated a once-a-week clinic and handled approximately 15 surgeries per day. Today, expanded facilities and medical training allow the team to perform up to 40 procedures daily. The surgeries reduce procedure time and enhance safety by keeping pets under anesthesia for shorter periods.

  • Second Chance Animal Services launched its spay and neuter program in 2005.
  • In 2025, the organization performed 8,747 spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats.

The players

Second Chance Animal Services

A Massachusetts-based nonprofit that provides low-cost spay and neuter services and operates veterinary hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester.

Sheryl Blancato

The founder and CEO of Second Chance Animal Services.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A lot has changed over the years to get us to this many surgeries. Today, we have veterinarians trained in advanced techniques that allow us to perform a higher volume of surgeries in a single day without compromising care. These techniques reduce procedure time, which enhances safety by keeping pets under anesthesia for shorter periods. We have created a finely tuned process that allows us to offer affordable pricing while maintaining the highest standards of care. Our staff treats every patient like their own pet, and I am so proud of the work they do.”

— Sheryl Blancato, Founder and CEO, Second Chance Animal Services (wwlp.com)

The takeaway

Second Chance Animal Services' spay and neuter program has made a significant impact on reducing pet overpopulation and improving the health and well-being of animals in the local community. The organization's commitment to affordable and accessible veterinary services, as well as its focus on advanced medical techniques and staff dedication, have allowed it to expand its reach and perform thousands of life-saving surgeries each year.