Ghost Of Christmas Present?: MSPCA Holds Fee-Free Dog Adoptions

SALEM, MA — A statewide coalition of animal shelters is looking to adopt out 100 or more dogs over the next few days as part of a special "Home for the Holidays" adoptathon for all dogs ages 1 and older.

The MSPCA locations in Boston, Methuen, Cape Cod, the Northeast Animal Shelter of Salem and the Worcester Animal Rescue League, Berkshire Humane Society, Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center, as well as the Lowell Humane Society and Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton, are looking to clear shelters for additional rescues with the fee-free event Dec. 5 through Dec. 8.

"This time of year often elicits feelings of love, joy, and warmth for people — all things we really want the animals in our shelters to experience as well," MSPCA-Angell Vice President of Animal Protection Mike Keiley said. "People often only consider puppies when thinking about getting a dog, but there are a ton of benefits to adopting older dogs as well.

"We're hoping that this adoptathon helps shine the spotlight on them, and finds them the loving homes they deserve — just in time for the holidays."

All dogs adopted out are spayed or neutered with adoption counselors available to talk with applicants about the expense and responsibility of adding a new pet to their home, as well as to help find the best dog available for their lifestyle.

While dogs are generally not considered ideal for "surprise" holiday presents, the event is being held early in the month to allow applicants to make an informed decision about adding a new furry friend to their homes and to allow for some acclimation before holiday visitors and added commotion.

Waiving the fees is designed to lessen the initial expense of rehoming the dogs so the new owners can dedicate that money to initial care and necessary supplies.

Those interested in adopting are asked to visit a participating shelter during open hours, which vary by location. Fees are being subsidized by the Bissell Pet Foundation and Best Friends Animal Society.

More information may be found here.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)