We are open for adoptions Tuesday - Saturday from 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

No appointment is necessary to visit the adoption center!

The fastest way to find a new animal friend is to visit us during open hours. If you are looking for more information about a pet before coming to visit, email us at springfield@dakinhumane.org or call 413-781-4000 x 1. Phone calls will be returned within approximately 24 hours.

All available animals are listed on our website, which updates in real-time as animals become available and get adopted.

Animals who are listed as in foster care on our website are not available to meet at the shelter.

Visit our website to view listings of all animals currently looking for homes.

• You’ll find information on each pet’s history and preferences (when known) on their profile.

Items you’ll need at the time of your adoption (available for purchase at Dakin):

• A secure carrier if adopting a cat, kitten, or small pet
• A collar and leash if adopting a dog/puppy

Putting an animal on hold

You can place a hold on an animal for a nonrefundable $25 fee. This is recommended if you are driving from a long distance and want to make sure a particular pet is available when you arrive, or if there is one pet you are especially interested in. If you would like to inquire about putting a pet on hold, call us at 413-781-4000 x1. Animals can only be held for 24 hours.

Holds are NOT available during adoption promotions and/or events. We appreciate your understanding.

Housing requirements for small animals

Most of our small pets are being cared for in foster homes. If you see a small animal on our website that you’re interested in who is in foster care, please email or call us!

Most small animal housing sold in pet stores is too small for them. Please carefully review our housing requirements based on small animal species. Measure your housing to make sure it meets or exceeds the requirements. A photo of your small animal housing is required.

More Information

• Adoption fees are due at the time of adoption. We are unable to offer payment plans or accept checks.
• What's included in the adoption fee?

Our animal population changes very frequently. Please visit our website often to view all animals currently available for adoption. Our website updates in real-time as animals become available and get adopted.

Looking for a specific breed?

If you are looking for a puppy or a specific dog breed, it’s okay to work with a responsible breeder!

It will take work and time to get the dog you’re dreaming of. Working with a responsible breeder eliminates the risk of unknowingly supporting puppy mills, where dogs live in cruel and inhumane conditions. Puppies from these mills often suffer from severe medical and/or behavioral issues. Follow these tips -

• Never buy a puppy unless you personally meet the puppy’s mom.
• Never buy a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old.
• Never buy a puppy that needs to be shipped to you, or from a pet store. These are from puppy mills and their mom and dad will live their lives in terrible conditions. Buying those pups supports puppy mills.
• Never buy a puppy unless you can visit where the puppies are being raised. If the seller wants to meet you elsewhere, that’s a red flag.

Click here for information about why working with a responsible breeder may be right for you, and what to look for in an excellent breeder.