Dog Adoption Near Northampton (Springfield, Barre: apartment, lease, homes)

[waxwolf]

Hi all,

My partner and I will be moving to Northampton in a couple weeks, and since our jobs won't be starting until mid-July we figured it would be a good time to finally get a dog. We have been looking on Petfinder and the ASPCA website, but a lot of the dogs listed as within 100 miles seem to actually be living much farther away and unavailable for transport until the adoption process is completed. We would prefer to just go to a few adoption centers and find a dog locally.

Does anyone have any recommendations for dog shelters in the Pioneer Valley area? We'd be willing to travel a couple hours to meet the dogs. We're looking for a mid-sized dog, preferably already house-trained with a medium level of energy (likes long walks but won't stress out living in an apartment)

We've found a couple on Google, of course, but I'd hate to miss out on any, plus we value your recommendations.

[DawnMTL]

You might also want to check Craigslist in the area. There are many people who, when re-homing their dogs, go the Craigslist route.

[goldenage1]

I have had good luck with Petsmart stores. The closest one is in Enfield, Connecticut. The usually don't keep dogs at the store, as they are in foster homes. They may have pet adoption fairs. I would call when you get settled, and they may want to do a home visit. You will at least have to show proof that your lease allows dogs.

[waxwolf]

Thanks guys :-)

[brightdoglover]

There's a big no-kill shelter in Barre. It started out as one woman's little backyard effort and grew and is quite well regarded. I am drawing a blank on the name but it's her name. Look around for shelters in Barre and it should come up. Thank you for adopting!

[brightdoglover]

Barre Animal Shelters | Pet Shelters in Barre, MA

Lists several in the area around Northampton. I didn't see the woman's name I remembered (or didn't remember) but maybe the name changed. Best wishes on adopting your new best friend!

[theh]

Check out the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society. I have a couple of friends who have adopted from them before. They have shelters in Springfield and Leverett. Good luck!

[brightdoglover]

Elayne Bosler Animal Society in Barre. The name came to me, but it wasn't on the list above- maybe it merged or gotten taken over or something. It was very well rated.