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

two bunnies eating a treat

Rabbits Make Excellent Household Pets!

Info you can use for these cute and cuddly herbivores From Rex to Angora to the French Lop, there are a wide variety of domestic rabbits, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) routinely has a large population of adoptable rabbits to choose from. Aside from being a great option for families living in smaller spaces, rabbits are incredibly clean, intelligent, friendly, and curious, making them fantastic pets! Rabbit Basics ARL believes that rabbits should always be housed indoors. Your rabbit’s enclosure must be large enough to contain a litter box (yes, they can be litter box trained!), food

Read More

A woman kneels beside a tabby cat emerging from a carrier in a home's entryway, gently steadying the cat. There is a backpack and jacket to her left.

Prepare Your Pet for the Upcoming Nor’easter

Make sure your pet is ready before the storm arrives A powerful nor’easter is expected to impact New England, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, coastal flooding, and the potential for power outages. As you prepare your home for the approaching storm, don’t forget to plan ahead for your pets too! Severe weather can create unexpected situations, and having supplies ready ahead of time can help keep you and your pets safe. In the event of a power outage, flooding, evacuation, or other emergency, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) recommends having a sturdy, comfortable crate or carrier on hand

Read More

Smiling woman kneels beside two golden dogs in a grassy garden.

Supporter Spotlight: Consie Berghausen

For Consie Berghausen, caring for others has never been a passing interest, it has been a constant throughout her life. A clinical psychologist by training, she spent many years in private practice. As she began to spend more time on Cape Cod, she started a support group for older women through her church. Animals have always been part of her story. Growing up, their home was always filled with rescue animals, and whenever her parents couldn’t find Consie, they knew exactly where she’d be: downstairs playing with the dog. And one winter day, her family found a kitten struggling in

Read More

two bunnies eating a treat

Rabbits Make Excellent Household Pets!

Info you can use for these cute and cuddly herbivores From Rex to Angora to the French Lop, there are a wide variety of domestic rabbits, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) routinely has a large population of adoptable rabbits to choose from. Aside from being a great option for families living in smaller spaces, rabbits are incredibly clean, intelligent, friendly, and curious, making them fantastic pets! Rabbit Basics ARL believes that rabbits should always be housed indoors. Your rabbit’s enclosure must be large enough to contain a litter box (yes, they can be litter box trained!), food

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
0

animals helped
with your support in 2025!

We’re social!