Adoption Options
Local, vetted options to consider when looking to adopt a new pet.
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” — Gandhi
There is nothing quite like the experience of adopting a pet. Whether it's a dog, cat, guinea pig, bird, or lizard, it is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have. As someone with two adopted dogs, I can tell you that not only is it rewarding, but my dogs have taught me more than I have ever taught them. They teach me patience, resilience, how to give and accept unconditional love, as well as many other things every single day.
That being said; never rush into adopting a pet. Have the entire household meet them, including other pets, if possible. Make sure you are going to be able to meet their individual needs and that you're not forcing anything to work because they're just so cute. It's better to do your homework and wait for a rescue animal that fits your lifestyle and expectations than to adopt in a rush and have to bring them back!
Having worked and volunteered here, I am openly-biased about WARL. I adopted one of my three dogs there as well. WARL is open 7 days per week by appointment and has no space or time limit on any adoptable animal. Open for over 100 years, they are a huge support for the Worcester community - adopting out animals, as well as reuniting lost animals with their families. They update their list of adoptable animals almost daily, so if you're looking to adopt, WARL is your place!
Brown Dog Coalition is a volunteer-run foster-based dog and cat rescue located in Hopkinton, MA. They specialize in rescuing dogs from down south and fostering and adopting them out to wonderful families in Massachusetts. They do wonderful work and they are an excellent place to adopt your newest family member!
Sterling Animal Shelter is located in Sterling, MA and are a no-kill animal shelter with no time or age limit on their animals. They provide medical care and humane shelter for stray, unwanted, abused and neglected animals. They also offer low-cost vaccine clinics and on-sit vet clinics. Check them out next time you're looking to give a great dog a new home!