By: Shannon Hegy

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (abc40) -- After months of anticipation, the day so many had been waiting for finally arrived.

"You've made it possible and we know that you will continue to make our good work possible in years to come," said Candy Lash, media spokesperson for the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society.

Lash spoke to the large crowd gathered outside the former site of the MSPCA on Saturday, thanking the community for their help. 

With the cut of a ribbon, the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society officially opened for business.

"Today is the day where we begin the work that in the next three years will end animal homelessness in the Pioneer Valley," said Dakin's executive director, Leslie Harris.

Within less than an hour of the opening, Dakin had its first adoption. 

"It's really nice to come back and be able to help out, adopt a cat, and give 'em a home," said Denise Gonsalves. 

Gonsalves and her two children took home a kitten named Sally.  They were just one of the families marking the momentous occasion by adopting an animal in need.

"It's a good feeling knowing you're helping something that can't help itself," said Emily Herfurth.

"We're just thrilled," said Gail Morini.  "We wanted to be down here to see what it has to offer us and we want to support it."

For those both two-legged and four, it was a day of celebration, a new beginning, and a hope for a brighter future.