Pawtriots Tailgate: Finding Forever homes with the New England patriots & Second Chance Animal Services
(Updated October 26,2024)
are you a New England Patriots fan with a heart for animals? Or perhaps you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family? This Sunday,October 19th,Patriot Place in Foxborough will be the place to be! The New England Patriots Foundation,in partnership with the Kraft family,is hosting the Pawtriots Tailgate – a heartwarming event dedicated to connecting adoptable dogs with loving homes. and this year, ten deserving dogs from Second Chance Animal Services are taking center stage.
But this event is more than just a tailgate; it’s a powerful demonstration of how sports teams can leverage their platform for notable social good. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Pawtriots Tailgate, the amazing work of Second Chance Animal Services, and how you can participate in making a difference.
A Tailgate with a Purpose: The Pawtriots Initiative
The Pawtriots initiative isn’t new. Launched earlier this year at Patriots training camp, it quickly proved accomplished – every adoptable dog featured at the camp found a forever home. This speaks volumes about the initiative’s reach and the generosity of Patriots fans. According to a recent report by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year. Events like Pawtriots are crucial in reducing these numbers and providing deserving animals with a second chance. https://www.aspca.org/animal-homelessness
This Sunday’s event promises to be even bigger and better. Fans can enjoy watching the Patriots take on the Tennessee titans on a massive outdoor screen, all while meeting adorable, adoptable dogs from Second Chance animal Services and three other local shelters.
Here’s what you can expect:
* Event Time: 11:30 a.m.- Kickoff at 1:00 p.m.
* Location: Patriot Place,Foxborough,MA
* Special Guests: Patriots alumni Brian Hoyer and David Andrews (Super Bowl champions!),Pat Patriot,and the Patriots Cheerleaders.
* Family Fun: Music, face painting, airbrush tattoos, interactive games, and a variety of food trucks.
* Donation Drive: Bring pet food, toys, collars, and leashes to support local shelters.
Second Chance Animal Services: A Lifeline for Animals in Need
Second Chance Animal Services, a non-profit institution based in East Brookfield, Massachusetts, is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. Founded by Sheryl Blancato, the organization provides comprehensive care, including medical attention, behavioral training, and a loving foster network.
“We’re thrilled to be part of this event and grateful to the Patriots Foundation for shining a spotlight on shelter pets,” says Blancato. “Events like this help pets find loving homes while also raising awareness about the importance of adoption and access to care.”
Second Chance goes beyond simply finding homes. They prioritize responsible adoptions,ensuring a good match between pet and family. This includes a crucial “meet and greet” process – a vital step frequently enough overlooked.
Why are “meet and greets” so important?
Blancato explains, “Every pet has their own personality, and a short introduction can tell a lot about how they’ll do together at home. We require a family’s current pet(s) to meet the new one before adoption. This helps make sure everyone gets along and that it’s a good match for both animals. The goal is to set both pets and their families up for success,creating a safe and happy habitat for all.”
This commitment to responsible adoption is a hallmark of Second Chance’s approach, contributing to long-term success stories and reducing the likelihood of returns.
Beyond Adoption: supporting Animal Welfare
The Pawtriots Tailgate isn’t just about finding homes for ten lucky dogs. It’s about fostering a broader conversation about animal welfare and encouraging community involvement. Here are a few ways you can support animal shelters and rescue organizations, even if you’re not ready to adopt:
* Donate: Financial contributions, even small ones, can make a significant difference.
* Volunteer: Shelters always need volunteers to help with tasks like walking dogs, cleaning kennels, and providing administrative support.
* Foster: Providing a temporary home for an animal in need frees up space at the shelter and allows the
