A person smiling, holding a small black and white dog

Pets are family.

This belief is at the heart of everything we do at ARL.

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.

a veterinary tech trimming a tabby kitten's nails
  • Classy Awards 2023 Winner
  • Great Non Profits 2025 Top-Rated

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.

Adopt

Matching adoptable animals
with a loving home

Dog Training

Courses are offered
in Boston and Dedham

Medical Care

Offering high-quality, low-cost
veterinary services

Community Programs

Meeting animals and people
where they live

ARL In Action

Two people standing next to each other, one person is holding a small dog

Supporter Spotlight: Jeanne Lesczcynski & Diane DiCarlo

Jeanne and Diane have spent 31 wonderful years together, dividing their time between Massachusetts and the sunny shores of Florida. Their days are filled with activities they love—golf and tennis, gardening, theater, and most of all, giving back to the causes that are closest to their hearts. But there’s one thing that has always been at the center of their lives: their love for animals. For Diane, animals have always been more than just companions—they’ve been family. As a child, she cared for a variety of animals, including dogs, horses, donkeys, and even sheep. Jeanne shares a similar bond with

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Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year graphic

Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year 2025

The Animal Rescue League of Boston and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) are pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the annual Massachusetts Animal Control Officer (ACO) of the Year award. The award was established to honor an animal control officer whose efforts in his/her local community throughout the year demonstrate: A dedicated, humane attitude toward the treatment and well-being of all animals Effective enforcement of pet responsibility laws A commitment to public awareness and humane education programs Cooperative working relationships with other agencies, such as state and local government departments, other ACOs, and animal

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a person in a red t-shirt holding a beagle dog

Bagel-Named Beagles Arrive at ARL

Rescued from overcrowding in Franklin County This week, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is assisting the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Team with the removal of 34 beagles from an overcrowding situation at a home kennel in Northwestern Massachusetts. As part of a multi-agency, collaborative rescue, ARL is now caring for 10 of the beagles at its Boston facility and will provide the dogs with compassionate care, veterinary and behavior exams, and spay/neuter services. The beagles will be put up for adoption when they are ready. The dogs range in ages up to eight years-old, are friendly

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Two people standing next to each other, one person is holding a small dog

Supporter Spotlight: Jeanne Lesczcynski & Diane DiCarlo

Jeanne and Diane have spent 31 wonderful years together, dividing their time between Massachusetts and the sunny shores of Florida. Their days are filled with activities they love—golf and tennis, gardening, theater, and most of all, giving back to the causes that are closest to their hearts. But there’s one thing that has always been at the center of their lives: their love for animals. For Diane, animals have always been more than just companions—they’ve been family. As a child, she cared for a variety of animals, including dogs, horses, donkeys, and even sheep. Jeanne shares a similar bond with

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three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
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animals helped
with your support in 2024!

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