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

Colorful poster from Provincetown Arts Society reading “No Greater Love,” surrounded by portraits of two birds, two cats, and two dogs.

No Greater Love Event Brings Together Art, Community, and Love for Animals in Provincetown

On Thursday, August 27, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) joined the Provincetown Arts Association & Museum and Provincetown Arts Society for the annual No Greater Love Benefit Fundraiser, an evening celebrating art, community, and shared love for animals. Held at the historic Mary Heaton Vorse House in Provincetown, the event brought together community members and supporters to benefit ARL’s work on Cape Cod, as well as the Provincetown Art Association & Museum and Provincetown Arts Society. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres throughout the evening while gathering in support of the three organizations and their work in the

Read More

arl-sign-outdoors-blog-thumb

Animal Rescue League of Boston Welcomes Three New Members to Board of Directors

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is pleased to welcome Grace Fey, Katie Brennan Kane, and Kevin Mercer to its Board of Directors Bringing expertise across investment management, financial planning, data and analytics, and nonprofit leadership, ARL’s newest Board members share a commitment to animal welfare and will help provide leadership and guidance as the organization continues its work to keep animals safe and healthy in the communities where they live. Grace Fey Grace Fey, CFA, is the President of Grace Fey Advisors and brings decades of investment management and nonprofit leadership experience to ARL’s Board of Directors. For

Read More

dog laying down outside wearing American flag bandana

5 Tips for Labor Day Pet Safety

Some holiday weekend activities may be TOO HOT FOR SPOT®! For many New Englanders, Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, but warm temperatures and outdoor activities can continue well into the fall. Whether your holiday weekend includes a family gathering, backyard BBQ, trip to the beach, or another outdoor adventure, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and Boston Veterinary Care (BVC) remind pet owners that heat, crowds, unfamiliar surroundings, and increased activity can be overwhelming — and potentially dangerous — for our canine companions. Before including your dog in the festivities, consider whether they’ll truly be

Read More

Colorful poster from Provincetown Arts Society reading “No Greater Love,” surrounded by portraits of two birds, two cats, and two dogs.

No Greater Love Event Brings Together Art, Community, and Love for Animals in Provincetown

On Thursday, August 27, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) joined the Provincetown Arts Association & Museum and Provincetown Arts Society for the annual No Greater Love Benefit Fundraiser, an evening celebrating art, community, and shared love for animals. Held at the historic Mary Heaton Vorse House in Provincetown, the event brought together community members and supporters to benefit ARL’s work on Cape Cod, as well as the Provincetown Art Association & Museum and Provincetown Arts Society. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres throughout the evening while gathering in support of the three organizations and their work in the

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
0

animals helped
with your support in 2025!

We’re social!