Community rallies to adopt the animals

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The announced closure of the Springfield MSPCA in March tugs at the heartstrings of many local pet lovers.

Every year nearly 7,000 animals call the Springfield MSPCA their home. Due to a struggling economy these animals are forced to relocate.

"I'm just so worries about what they are going to do," said Debbie Dion of Westfield.

The MSPCA is hoping their furry friends will soon call your house...their home.

After Thursdays devastating news, the Shelter on Union Street has been packed with families looking to adopt.

Friday alone, 21 animals were taken home.

MSPCA Spokesperson Candy Lash told 22News the response from the community has been overwhelming.

The Dion family heard about the closure on 22News and decided to step in.

"We were sad...We don't have a cat so we wanted to come adopt one," said Debbie.

Lash said they will be rescuing stray animals up until they close March 31st.

Starting in April, the animals will be transferred to MSPCA centers in the eastern part of the state.

"It's a lot of stress on them moving from home to home. They don't really know who is their owner. It can end in a lot of behavior issues. Destructive behavior; because they are stressed," explained Lyndsey Sherman, a dog trainer.

Sherman told 22News it's important that a pet has stability in their environment so they can bond their owner.

"Recently we had to put down a dog. The house is empty and now we have to fill it up...We miss the energy," said Mike Donahue of West Springfield.