MSPCA shuts down, where will pets go?

(WWLP) - The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is closing its Animal Care and Adoption Center on Union Street in Springfield effective March 31st.

The closing is blamed on the recession, collapsing financial markets, and endowment losses. MSPCA facilities in Brockton and Martha's Vineyard will be closing their doors as well.

The combined closures and Boston offices downsizing will eliminate 46 positions, affecting 38 people.

In May of 2007 the MSPCA closed its hospital in Springfield because of financial losses.

The Animal Care and Adoption Center used a portion of that building. The MSPCA tried without success to rent or sell the property.

According to a news release from the MSPCA, expenses in Springfield were almost a million dollars a year greater than the revenue from services and contributions.

MSPCA Animal Care and Adoption Centers in Boston, Centerville, Methuen, and Nantucket will stay open as well as hospitals in Boston and Nantucket.