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
How Massachusetts Is Strengthening Protections for Animals
January 30, 2026
New Laws and Bold Advocacy Keep Massachusetts at the Forefront of Animal Protection Massachusetts was recently named the #2 state for animal welfare by the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Massachusetts has been in the top tier for animal protection laws for over 10 years. With one of the oldest animal cruelty statutes in the country, Massachusetts has consistently been a leader on animal welfare issues. 2025 was filled with progress for animals in Massachusetts with the implementation of multiple laws passed in the 2023-2024 session and work on the 2025-2026 agenda. In January the ban on exotic animals in traveling
Arctic Cold Puts Pets at Risk
January 21, 2026
Reports of Animals Left in the Cold Are on the Rise As frigid temperatures continue to grip the region, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is urging pet owners to keep animals safe in the extreme cold. ARL has been receiving an increased number of calls from concerned citizens regarding animals being left out in the cold this December. Here are steps to keep pets safe when temperatures plunge: Prepare your dog for the cold elements. If your dog has a longer coat, let it grow out for the winter; for shorter-coat dogs, sweaters, coats and booties can go
Valentine’s Card Shuffle
January 21, 2026
This year, surprise someone you care about—or yourself!—with a one-of-a-kind, animal-themed Valentine’s Day card that’s sure to delight.
How Massachusetts Is Strengthening Protections for Animals
January 30, 2026
New Laws and Bold Advocacy Keep Massachusetts at the Forefront of Animal Protection Massachusetts was recently named the #2 state for animal welfare by the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Massachusetts has been in the top tier for animal protection laws for over 10 years. With one of the oldest animal cruelty statutes in the country, Massachusetts has consistently been a leader on animal welfare issues. 2025 was filled with progress for animals in Massachusetts with the implementation of multiple laws passed in the 2023-2024 session and work on the 2025-2026 agenda. In January the ban on exotic animals in traveling
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