Dakin shelter opens at fmr. MSPCA site

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Animals and animal lovers, rejoice! The Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society held it's grand opening on Saturday at the former site of the Springfield MSPCA.

A ribbon cutting ceremony on the grounds ushered in a new era of animal care and adoption in Springfield.

Hundreds of supporters, employees and would-be adoptee's attended Saturday's grand opening.

The Dakin Pionner Valley Humane Society has been well known in Hampshire and Franklin Counties for their services.

They purchased the building soon after the Springfield MSPCA closed down in March of last year.

"I was very sad, I adopted my cat that I have at home now from here 15 years ago. I also volunteer so it was very sad when it closed," said Denise Gonzalves of Ludlow.

Candy Lash of the Dakin Pionner Valley Humane Society appears every Monday on 22News, she told us she was thrilled to be back in her old home with a fresh start.

"It's just a wonderful day, It's unbelievable wonderful. Four months ago I didn't think we'd be here today. And here we are, so this is the beginning of a bright future for animals and those who care about them in the pioneer valley."

Bringing more evidence that animals really do have a sixth sense was the fact that the animals of Dakin seemed to put their best paw forward on a day where so many had the opportunity to find a new loving home.