BOSTON, Mass. (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.
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…