About Us

Our Story

Second Chance was founded in 1985 as a privately-funded organization dedicated to rehoming unwanted animals. Since then, we’ve grown into the largest animal rescue organization in mid-Missouri and have helped match countless pets with their perfect families. We are only able to care for more animals year after year due to the support of our foster families, donors and volunteers. 

Some of our animals come to us as strays or from local shelters, while others are given up by families who have to make the tough decision to surrender them. Through the kindness of our volunteers and foster families, our dogs and cats get the best care while we search for their forever home—no matter how long it takes. At no point are animals euthanized. We wait patiently to find just the right person or people to complete their family. Throughout the entire process, we maintain the highest standards of medical care, food, socialization and training available for our animals. 

In 2010, Second Chance moved into a modern building of 6,000 square feet on over 30 acres of scenic views, just off of I-70. This location allows Second Chance to house some adoptable cats in our spacious Kitty Kondos. All dogs, kittens, and any animals requiring extra medical care or socialization are still housed in our dedicated foster homes throughout the local area. In 2022, thanks to a very generous grant from the Veterans United Foundation, we were able to expand on our property and build a. new building dedicated to animal supply storage, and future spay and neuter clinic as well as community food pantry.