BOSTON and Salem, Mass., Aug. 2, 2022 – On the heels of the launch of a successful program to help solve pet overpopulation challenges in South Carolina, the MSPCA-Angell and Northeast Animal Shelter (NEAS) in Salem announced today that they’re establishing a “Southern Hub” in Florida to help ease shelter overcrowding there.
The two organizations will bring 150 cats and kittens to Massachusetts on Tuesday, August 2 from several shelters in Florida – Humane Society of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach, Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County in Vero Beach, and Humane Society of the Treasure Coast in Palm City.
Targeting Shelters—and Pets—Most in Need
MSPCA-Angell Director of Adoption Centers and Programs, Mike Keiley, says the August 2 flight will be the first of several transports planned for 2022.
“Our goal is to help shelters in the Southern part of Florida that are overwhelmed,” he explained. “We move cats out of well-resourced shelters in the area and bring them to Massachusetts, where people are eager to adopt. Doing so allows those facilities to take in cats from the shelters that are struggling with high intake during peak summer months. It’s a comprehensive strategy that would not be possible without our partner organizations.”
Blazing the Trail for Animal Protection
The news marks another step forward for the MSPCA’s commitment to improving the lives of animals no matter where they live.
“Our primary motivation is to help as many animals and the people that care for them, regardless of whether they live in Massachusetts or another state,” said Keiley. “All states require different approaches, but our success in South Carolina has shown that we have the resources and ability to help handle pet overpopulation outside our region. We’re excited for this partnership in Florida as we share our resources to help other shelters in need of assistance with the cats in their community.”
How to Adopt
The MSPCA and NEAS are holding special adoption events for the newly arrived cats on Saturday, August 6 and Sunday, August 7. Interested adopters can register for the event at www.mspca.org/kittens and neas.org/kittens. Advance appointments are required.