We strongly encourage you to find your pet’s new home and not bring them to a shelter. Bringing a pet to the shelter should be a last resort when you have no other options. All shelter environments are stressful for animals. No matter how well-maintained a shelter is, most animals must be housed in kennels and will hear, smell, and see many other animals at all times. Dakin’s staff and volunteers provide loving care for them, but stress is unavoidable and can cause issues including anxiety, aggression, and illnesses.

Appointments to surrender a pet to Dakin are required so we can have space and staff ready for them. Please do not bring your animal to the shelter without an appointment.

If this is an emergency (e.g., a person or animal is in danger, or you are unhoused/homeless), call us at 413-781-4000.

Dakin has resources to help with common issues that may help you keep your pet. If that's not possible, we also have resources to help you rehome your pet.

Surrendering Your Pet To Dakin

At this time, Dakin is accepting surrendered animals from residents of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties only.

A surrender form and an appointment is required. Click on your pet’s species to access the form.