By: Shannon Hegy

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (abc40) -- It's a new beginning, it's a second chance, for the Pioneer Valley Humane Society, it's move-in day.

"It's very emotional," said Candy Lash, an employee at Dakin and a former employee of the Springfield MSPCA.  "We're back in a building that was meant to serve animals and people and it's going to be put back to that use and we're so excited."

This week the organization officially closed on the former MSPCA building for $1.2 million.  Many former MSPCA employees are along for the ride.

The building will remain an open admission shelter, serving the entire Pioneer Valley.  There will be a few new additions, including a high-volume, low-cost, spay and neuter clinic servicing a projected 10,000 animals a year.  The organization's goal remains the same - to make Western Massachusetts a community with no homeless pets.

The adoption center is set to open August first, with the clinic opening in October.  Staff members aren't the only ones excited for the big day.

"We've received e-mails and phone calls and little notes in the mail just saying 'welcome back to Springfield, thanks so much for coming back,'" said Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris.

With its move to Springfield, Dakin has closed its Greenfield location on French King Highway.  It's Leverett location will remain open.