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
Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year 2025
August 25, 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
Bagel-Named Beagles Arrive at ARL
August 15, 2025
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
Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society® Spotlight
August 12, 2025
Michael Samuelian and Sean Murray For Michael and Sean, a chance encounter in a South End coffee shop on a winter morning two decades ago led not only to a lifelong partnership but also to a shared journey rooted in love, community, and compassion for animals. Though Sean wasn’t always a pet person, that changed when he met Michael. Michael had long been an animal lover, growing up with many cats as cherished family members—including Mayday, a beloved black cat he had when he and Sean met. Mayday came into Michael’s life when his roommate heard meowing from a box near
Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year 2025
August 25, 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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