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 2026 Top-Rated badge

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 Dedham

Medical Care

Offering high-quality, low-cost
veterinary services

Community Programs

Meeting animals and people
where they live

ARL In Action

A small, fluffy dog curiously flowers in a sunlit garden. 

Popular Spring Flowers That Are Toxic to Pets

Know the Risks Before You Plant or Pick Spring brings longer days, warmer weather and plenty of beautiful blooms. But while these flowers brighten up our homes and gardens, some of the most popular spring plants can be dangerous for dogs and cats. Pets are naturally curious, and even a small nibble on the wrong plant can lead to serious health issues. Before bringing home a bouquet or planting your garden, it’s important to know which flowers to avoid. Common Toxic Spring Flowers to Know Crocuses Crocuses are among the first flowers to bloom in early spring, but they can

Read More

A tan and brown dog with upright ears sits on a light carpet, wearing a red collar and a black jacket with red patterns. The dog looks curiously at the camera.

As the Ice Melts, Hope Blooms for Dogs Like Mouse

Cold Weather Slowed Dog Adoptions, Now ARL Is Catching Up After a historic winter marked by extreme cold and record-breaking snowfall, the Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Boston is turning its focus toward a brighter spring. The harsh weather took a significant toll on ARL’s Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Dedham, and Brewster (Cape Cod). Fewer visitors were able to make the trip, leading to a noticeable decline in dog adoptions. As a result, kennel space has remained limited, making it more difficult to take in and care for other dogs in need. As the seasons begin to

Read More

A woman smiles warmly while sitting on a bench, holding two dachshunds, one black and one brown. A sunny day and red barn in the background.

Supporter Spotlight: Denise Saltojanes

Denise Saltojanes exemplifies leadership, innovation, and a dedication to uplifting others. Her career journey is a testament to her relentless curiosity and drive, beginning as a chemical engineer at GE, transitioning to investment banking, and later devoting over a decade to the Air Force Department of Defense as a civilian operations research analyst. True to her dynamic nature, she also pursued her own massage therapy business before shifting her focus to private investing. Today, she plays a crucial role in helping female-led startups secure funding and scale their businesses. Originally raised on a farm in Connecticut, Denise grew up surrounded

Read More

A small, fluffy dog curiously flowers in a sunlit garden. 

Popular Spring Flowers That Are Toxic to Pets

Know the Risks Before You Plant or Pick Spring brings longer days, warmer weather and plenty of beautiful blooms. But while these flowers brighten up our homes and gardens, some of the most popular spring plants can be dangerous for dogs and cats. Pets are naturally curious, and even a small nibble on the wrong plant can lead to serious health issues. Before bringing home a bouquet or planting your garden, it’s important to know which flowers to avoid. Common Toxic Spring Flowers to Know Crocuses Crocuses are among the first flowers to bloom in early spring, but they can

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
0

animals helped
with your support in 2025!

We’re social!