Our Mission
The Animal Rescue League of Boston is an unwavering champion for animals in need, committed to keeping them safe and healthy in homes.
Recognized for our innovative, award-winning programs that go beyond sheltering, we address the root causes of the issues facing animals and the people who love them.
By partnering with communities, we help animals heal and thrive, keep pets and people together, and protect animals from harm.
Because there is no government funding for this important work, animals must rely on people like you to get the care they need, when they need it most, 365 days a year.
ARL In Action
Animal Rescue League of Boston Partners with NBCUniversal and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for 2026 Clear the Shelters Campaign
July 30, 2026
The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to once again participate in NBCUniversal’s annual Clear the Shelters campaign, in partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, from August 1-31. The nationwide initiative celebrates the life-changing impact of pet adoption and helps connect more animals with loving families. As part of the campaign, adoption fees for rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and parakeets will be waived, while adoption fees for large adult dogs (one year and older weighing more than 40 pounds) will be reduced by $200 at all three ARL Animal Care & Adoption Centers. While every animal deserves a loving
ARL President & CEO Dr. Edward Schettino Featured in MassVet News: Expanding Access to Veterinary Care Across Greater Boston
July 20, 2026
The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to share that President & CEO, Edward Schettino, DVM, PhD, CAWA, was featured in the June issue of MassVet News, the official publication of the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA). In the article, “Meeting Pets Where They Are: How You Can Help Close the Veterinary Care Gap in Greater Boston,” Dr. Schettino explores the growing challenges many pet owners face in accessing affordable veterinary care and highlights how ARL’s innovative community veterinary programs are helping remove barriers that can put the human-animal bond at risk. Meeting Communities Where They Are For
ARL Field Services Rescues Cat from Tree, Reunites Him with Owner
July 13, 2026
The Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) Field Services team recently rescued a frightened, 1-year-old cat stranded high in a tree in a Newton neighborhood, safely reuniting him with his grateful owner. The owner contacted ARL after his cat, Alex, climbed high into a tree and was unable to make his way back down. ARL’s Field Services team quickly responded and began working to bring Alex safely to the ground. Because Alex was perched so high in the tree, the rescue required specialized equipment, careful planning, and nearly three hours to complete. Using climbing ropes, an ARL Field Services agent
Animal Rescue League of Boston Partners with NBCUniversal and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for 2026 Clear the Shelters Campaign
July 30, 2026
The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to once again participate in NBCUniversal’s annual Clear the Shelters campaign, in partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, from August 1-31. The nationwide initiative celebrates the life-changing impact of pet adoption and helps connect more animals with loving families. As part of the campaign, adoption fees for rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and parakeets will be waived, while adoption fees for large adult dogs (one year and older weighing more than 40 pounds) will be reduced by $200 at all three ARL Animal Care & Adoption Centers. While every animal deserves a loving
Stay up to Date
Sign up for ARL’s e-newsletter for the most current animal stories, advocacy and program updates, events, and more!