Massachusetts animal shelter waives dog adoption fees to free up shelter space

BOSTON (WWLP) – The MSPCA-Angell is hosting an impromptu fee-waived adoption event for all dogs six months and older to free up kennel space in its shelters, as stray intake often surges after Memorial Day.

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Stray intake for both dogs and cats peaks the day after Memorial Day, according to data collected throughout 2025 by Shelter Animals Count. Adoption fees will be waived for all dogs aged six months and older during the event, which takes place from May 29 through May 31.

Kiro’s adoption fee will be waived May 29-31 (credit MSPCA-Angell)
Tinskey’s adoption fee will be waived May 29-31 (credit MSPCA-Angell)
The MSPCA-Angell is hosting an urgent fee-waived adoption event for dogs (credit MSPCA-Angell)

Animal shelters across Massachusetts are already operating at or near capacity, particularly for dogs, which tend to stay longer, according to Jamie Garabedian, a project manager with MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division.

Garabedian said the organization is working to address overcrowding before the busy summer months, especially following Memorial Day, when shelters often see an increase in stray animals.

In addition to caring for strays, MSPCA-Angell anticipates a seasonal rise in animals arriving through law enforcement cases, owner surrenders and regular transport programs with out-of-state partners.

“The flow of animals coming to us isn’t going to slow down,” Garabedian said, noting the urgency of finding adopters to help ease the strain on shelter capacity.

The organization is placing a special focus on dogs, as adoption rates for them have declined in recent years. Garabedian attributed the trend to several factors, including rising veterinary costs, a higher cost of living, housing challenges and lifestyle shifts following the pandemic.

“We’re spotlighting dogs through this event because their adoption numbers have consistently declined over the years. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including the rising cost of veterinary care, increased cost of living, housing instability and restrictions, and lifestyle changes following the pandemic.”

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While those challenges remain, Garabedian said the MSPCA hopes people who are able and have been considering adoption will step forward.

The organization is planning additional efforts in the coming weeks to boost adoptions and free up kennel space so staff can continue taking in animals in need. The adoption centers in Boston, Methuen, Salem, and Centerville on Cape Cod. For more information, visit mspca.org/feewaived.