Event Comes as Increase in Local Dog Intake Pushes Capacity to the Brink
BOSTON, April 18, 2025 – The MSPCA-Angell and several MASS coalition partners are holding a special fee-waived adoptathon for all dogs aged one and older, the organizations announced today.
The event—called Big Dog Energy—begins Monday, April 21 and runs through Sunday, April 27 at 10 shelters across the state.
“We’ve been saying for a long time that adoptions of larger dogs have slowed down over the past couple of years, and it’s causing a capacity problem for us and many other shelters, including those in the coalition,” explained Project Manager of the MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division, Jamie Garabedian.
“Now, we’re also seeing an increase in local dog intake, which includes strays, surrenders, and seizures related to Law Enforcement cases,” she elaborated, noting that local intake of dogs at the MSPCA-Angell has increased 11% this year compared to the same period in 2024.
“We want to continue to be there for all the animals who need to come into our care for various reasons, but if we aren’t able to free up space, that might not be possible,” added Garabedian.
The groups collectively hope to rehome at least 100 dogs during the event.
Big Dog Energy!
All four MSPCA-Angell Adoption Centers—in Boston, Methuen, Salem, and Centerville on Cape Cod—are participating in the event, as well as Lowell Humane Society and MASS coalition partners Berkshire Humane Society, Worcester Animal Rescue League, Boston Animal Control, Dakin Humane Society, and Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center.
“Since the start of the coalition last July, we’ve adopted out more than 500 dogs during these collaborative fee-waived events, which is really great, but we still need help,” said Garabedian.
“We have strong momentum and support from the community, so we’re hoping that they hear our call and come out to adopt!”
Hours vary by location, with Dakin Humane participating only on April 25 and April 26. More information may be found at mspca.org/dogs.
