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
As the Ice Melts, Hope Blooms for Dogs Like Mouse
April 17, 2026
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
Major Win for Animals in Massachusetts
April 14, 2026
The Senate Unanimously Passes the Pets Act to Improve Animal Welfare On March 19, Massachusetts Senate debated and unanimously passed An Act promoting pet equity, treatment, and safety (PETS Act). This bill combines a number of pieces of legislation from ARL’s Legislative Agenda to improve the lives of companion animals in Massachusetts. Pets in Housing Housing-related reasons are the largest cause for surrenders to our shelters. On top of the issues around cost and availability in housing, the overwhelming majority of rentals are not truly pet-friendly. Even for those who own their homes, insurance companies often charge more for certain
Avoiding Pet Adoption Scams
April 14, 2026
Red Flags and How to Stay Safe As more people turn to the internet to find their next pet, online adoption scams are becoming increasingly common and more convincing. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid costly and heartbreaking situations. The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is encouraging prospective adopters to stay vigilant and take a closer look before engaging with online listings. Recently, a Boston resident searching for a kitten found a website that appeared highly credible. It featured professional language, impressive statistics, and logos from well-known animal welfare organizations. After inquiring about a pet, they
As the Ice Melts, Hope Blooms for Dogs Like Mouse
April 17, 2026
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
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