Blog Archives
Supporter Spotlight: Kira Weaver

With an infectious personality and an unwavering commitment to helping animals, Kira has opened her home to 28 fosters so far—17 dogs and 11 cats—since moving to Boston three years ago.

Her love for animals is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Originally from California, Kira grew up in a home that always had three or four dogs at a time, along with a variety of other pets including tortoises, hamsters, geckos, and even a snake! She credits her parents for helping to shape her values and instill the love and compassion for animals she has today.

One of the most defining experiences came from Diesel, her family’s dog who suffered a slipped disc at age two. His condition required extra patience and care, which she and her family provided wholeheartedly until his passing at the age of five. This opened her eyes to just how much animals need us, and how much we need them. His impact was so profound that she bears a tattoo in his honor, forever reminding her of the lessons of patience, compassion, and empathy she learned from him.

A small gray and white dog in a wheelchair outside in the grass.

Diesel

Kira wanted to help more people experience that special bond, and though she was not ready to commit to adopting, she thought fostering would be the perfect way to experience the joy of animals, while helping others. So, on a flight home from a trip, and after a quick Google search, she found ARL and applied to be a foster.

Just two weeks after moving into a new apartment, she welcomed in her first foster – a tiny kitten named Gus who had ringworm, a foster experience that would make many hesitate. Kira didn’t grow up with cats, but she embraced the opportunity as a learning experience, allowing her to care for more cats and kittens in the future.

From tiny kittens to big-headed bully breeds, she embraces every foster opportunity with the same level of love and enthusiasm. She says even in moments of chaos with a litter of kittens or a rambunctious puppy, she is able to reflect on her experience with Diesel, which instilled the patience and compassion necessary to work through any experience fostering throws at her.

Kira cites the incredible community that supports both the animals and volunteers as one of her favorite parts of working with ARL. But her passion for animal welfare extends beyond providing temporary homes. She deeply values the work that ARL does, emphasizing not only adoption services but the additional resources ARL provides, such as dog training, advocacy work, and programs like the Spay Waggin’® and Wellness Waggin’® that provide accessible veterinary care to those in need.

Kira’s story is one of selflessness, energy, and an unshakable belief in the power of rescue. Whether it’s taking in a sick kitten, helping a shy dog find their confidence, or simply spreading awareness about the importance of fostering, she pours her heart into everything she does. Her dedication serves as an inspiration to others, proving that even temporary care can have a lifelong impact on an animal’s future.

Learn more about fostering at the Animal Rescue League of Boston.


ARL Welcomes New Chief Financial & Operating Officer

We’re excited to have Vikram Mathur join ARL’s leadership team

Vikram brings 20 years of experience in corporate finance and business strategy across diverse industries, including hospitality, insurance, and e-commerce. Throughout his career, he has led initiatives in financial planning, operational efficiency, and strategic growth, raising and managing millions in revenue and funding.

Guided by a long-standing personal commitment to animal welfare, Vikram pursued a Master of Science in Animals & Public Policy at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, where he focused on the intersection of human-animal relationships, policy, and community impact. He also completed his capstone externship with ARL, gaining first-hand insight into the organization’s programs, advocacy, and operations.

“I feel extremely fortunate to be able to use my skillset for an organization whose mission is to help animals and the people who love them,” said Mathur. He looks forward to making sure ARL’s financial operations support the ever-evolving needs of ARL and plans to strengthen systems to ensure ARL’s innovative programs are efficient and cost-effective.

Welcome to ARL, Vikram!


How to Prepare Your Pet for Spooky Season

In Massachusetts, Halloween means busy city streets filled with trick-or-treaters, neighborhood block parties, and plenty of creative costumes. While it’s a fun and spirited time for people, the holiday can be overwhelming—or even dangerous—for pets. With a little planning, you can help your four-legged family members stay safe and comfortable while you enjoy the festivities.

5 Tips to Protect Your Pets This Halloween:

a dog dressed in a ghost costume, standing outside in fall leaves

Not all pets enjoy dressing up for Halloween—if your pet wears a costume, make sure it’s safe and doesn’t restrict movement or breathing.

  1. Keep candy and chocolate out of reach. The bowl of candy that we make easily accessible for tiny trick-or-treaters is also at paws-length for our pets. Even small amounts of chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free candy), and caffeine is toxic to dogs and cats and can cause seizures, liver failure, and even death. If you suspect your pet has eaten something dangerous, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away.
  2. Be careful with decorations. If your goal is to create the perfect spooky ambiance for all the Halloween festivities, keep in mind that many decorations are not pet-friendly. Faux spider webs, glow sticks, and plastic toys can be harmful if swallowed. Lit candles or jack-o-lanterns can be knocked over by curious pets, leading to burns or even fires.
  3. Create a calm space. The doorbell constantly ringing, a flurry of strangers in costumes, and loud noises can overwhelm pets- especially those who are typically skittish or anxious. Set you cat or dog up in a quiet room with their favorite toys and a TV or white noise to help ease their stress.
  4. Check your pet’s ID. With doors opening and closing all night, there’s a risk of pets slipping outside. Make sure their ID tags and microchip information are up to date so you can be reunited quickly if they get lost.
  5. Think twice about costumes. While some pets tolerate or even enjoy dressing up, many find it stressful. If you do put your pet in a costume, make sure it’s comfortable, doesn’t restrict movement or breathing, and has no small pieces that could be chewed off. Sometimes, a festive collar or bandanna is the safer choice.

Halloween can be a wonderful holiday for the whole family—but for pets, it comes with hidden risks. By keeping treats out of reach, decorating with care, reducing stress, checking IDs, and being mindful about costumes, you can ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable. With just a few simple precautions, the holiday can be fun, festive, and worry-free for everyone.

Dr. Edward Schettino is the President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, and has a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.


ARL Featured in Hill’s Pet Nutrition 2025 State of the Shelter Pet Adoption Report

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to be featured in Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s newly released 2025 State of the Shelter Pet Adoption Report!

Hill’s surveyed a socioeconomically diverse group of 2,500 current and prospective pet owners to better understand the growing challenges in animal welfare—namely, the increase in shelter pets and the decline in pet adoption rates.

The report also spotlights insights from ARL President & CEO, Dr. Edward Schettino, underscoring the importance of addressing adoption barriers that individuals in our community face every day. By identifying these challenges, the data helps us better understand what pet parents need to make adoption more accessible, equitable, and sustainable.

 

At ARL, this knowledge is essential. It allows us to strengthen our programs, improve the adoption experience, and, most importantly, provide even greater support to both our communities and the animals in our care.

We’re grateful to partner with Hill’s Pet Nutrition in this vital work, and we encourage you to explore the full report here: Hill’s Pet Nutrition – State of the Shelter Pet Adoption Report.


Check Your Car Hood—Kittens May Be Hiding Inside

Two Kittens Found in Car Engines in Taunton and Brockton Now in ARL’s Care

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is the only large animal welfare organization in Massachusetts with a dedicated Community Cats program to address the health and safety of the population of more than 700,000 feral, semi-feral, and outdoor cats throughout the state.

Meet Sparky

In Taunton, a six-week-old kitten was heard meowing from under the hood of a parked car. Two sisters, Myah and her sibling, followed the sound and found the tiny kitten nestled inside the engine compartment.

“We were getting into our car and heard a meow,” recalls Myah. “We looked under the cars but didn’t see anything. Then I told my sister we have to look under the hood and, sure enough, when I opened it, we saw her hiding!”

The kitten, now named Sparky, weighed just 1.4 pounds but was otherwise healthy. She is currently in foster care, where she’ll stay until she reaches a healthy weight, is spayed, and ready for adoption. Best of all—Sparky already has a home lined up with her rescuer.

Sparky

 

Meet Pisces

Sparky isn’t alone. In Brockton, a five-month-old male kitten was also found hiding in a car engine. Named Pisces, he arrived at ARL’s Dedham Animal Care & Adoption Center with a burn on his hind leg, singed whiskers, and signs of an older injury. At 5.8 pounds, Pisces is undergoing wound care and will be neutered before becoming available for adoption in the coming weeks.

A black and white kitten sitting in a cat kennel with a burn above on of its legs.

Pisces

Why Cats Hide in Car Engines

While unusual, cases like Sparky’s and Pisces’ are not uncommon. Kittens and community cats often seek warmth and shelter inside car engines, especially in wet or cold weather. Sadly, this can lead to injuries . To help prevent these accidents, ARL encourages everyone to tap the hood of your car and do a quick visual check before starting the engine—especially during colder months.

Lend a Paw to Cats in Need

Because there is no government funding for this important rescue work, animals must rely on individuals to get the care they need, when they need it most, 365 days a year. Donate now to help Sparky and Pisces, and other vulnerable community kittens.


New England Patriots Visit ARL

Building on the Patriots’ Mission to Help Pets Find Homes

Dr. Dana Kraft and the New England Patriots Foundation visited the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Dedham Animal Care & Adoption Center for a special volunteer day!

New England Patriots players and Dr. Dana Kraft met and “trained” pups Brandy, Mary, Jack, Whiskey, Hera, and Remi. And they even got to meet our resident pig, Gordy.

Patriots and team outside against a wooden fencing looking into a paddock containing a pig

We’re so thankful to the Kraft family, along with players Brenden Schooler, Andy Borregales, Caedan Wallace, Mike Onwenu, and Bryce Barringer, and the entire New England Patriots Foundation for helping give our animals the love and care they deserve.

Want more puppy love + Patriots smiles? Check out the full image gallery.

Two Patriots players are playing with a puppy outside

About the Patriots Foundation

In 1994, Robert Kraft established the New England Patriots Foundation as a way to give back to the communities the team calls home. Since then, the foundation has focused on supporting individuals and families who are often overlooked or marginalized. Through year-round programs and partnerships with local nonprofits, the foundation continues to strengthen communities and make a lasting impact across New England. Learn more about the Patriots Foundation.


Supporter Spotlight: Jeanne Lesczcynski & Diane DiCarlo

Jeanne and Diane have spent 31 wonderful years together, dividing their time between Massachusetts and the sunny shores of Florida. Their days are filled with activities they love—golf and tennis, gardening, theater, and most of all, giving back to the causes that are closest to their hearts. But there’s one thing that has always been at the center of their lives: their love for animals.

For Diane, animals have always been more than just companions—they’ve been family. As a child, she cared for a variety of animals, including dogs, horses, donkeys, and even sheep. Jeanne shares a similar bond with animals, having grown up with a cherished half-collie, half-sheltie who lived to the remarkable age of 18. Their current rescue dog, Rocco, has been a beloved member of their family for years, and they often joke that he’s the one who truly keeps them on their toes!

Jeanne and Diane’s journey with ARL began when a friend invited them to our Paws to Celebrate event in Dedham. What they witnessed that day—rescued animals finding love and care—left an indelible mark on their hearts. It was at that moment that they knew they wanted to be a part of something bigger, something that would make a lasting difference in the lives of animals and people alike.

Becoming monthly donors was a natural choice. As Jeanne puts it, “it’s the easiest way to give—you don’t have to think about it, and it’s always there when you need it.”

For Jeanne and Diane, their monthly support ensures ARL can continue to provide lifesaving services for animals and their families year-round. They understand the importance of consistent, reliable funding for nonprofits, allowing them to plan and grow their impact. When it comes to choosing where to direct their donations, Jeanne and Diane look for a nonprofit that is transparent and has a tangible local impact.

“We want to see where our money goes and know it’s making a difference,” they explain. This is why they are particularly drawn to ARL’s community programs like the Spay Waggin’® and the Wellness Waggin’®, which bring critical services directly to the communities that need them. “It’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about keeping families together,” they say, proudly highlighting ARL’s holistic approach to animal welfare.

But Jeanne and Diane’s philanthropy doesn’t stop at animal welfare. Jeanne, a retired microbiologist, is a passionate advocate for environmental preservation. She is a long- time Board Member of the Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown, and a former Board member of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. She has worked to protect Florida’s Mangrove habitats, even purchasing properties to prevent them from being developed. She received Certification as a Florida Master Naturalist this past year. Diane’s philanthropy extends to political and humanitarian causes, including organizations like the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, and the Red Cross.

Jeanne and Diane’s deep commitment to animals, conservation, and social causes makes them not only incredible supporters of ARL but also compassionate change-makers in every corner of their community. Their generosity is a beacon of hope, ensuring that animals and people alike receive the care, protection, and love they deserve.

ARL is deeply grateful for the generosity of Jeanne and Diane and all monthly donors, whose consistent support makes a lasting impact. Their kindness and dedication ensure that animals receive the care, protection, and love they deserve, strengthening the bond between pets and the people who cherish them.

Learn more about monthly giving.


Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year 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 protection groups

All officers in Massachusetts are required to undergo training through the Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources. In order to receive this award, an ACO must be current on the state’s mandated training requirements through the Mass Animal Fund.

Nominations should be submitted in writing and may come from government officials, other officers, animal protection organizations, or private citizens.

Submissions should explain how the nominee has met the above criteria and should be sent to both:

Allison Blanck
Animal Rescue League of Boston
10 Anna’s Pl
Dedham, MA 02026
ablanck@arlboston.org

Kara Holmquist
MSPCA
350 South Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02130
kholmquist@mspca.org

Nominations must be received by September 30, 2025.


Bagel-Named Beagles Arrive at ARL

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 and appear to be well-fed. The 10 beagles being cared for at ARL’s Boston facility include three males and seven females. The dogs are named after bagels: Everything, Blueberry, Pumpernickel, Asiago, Sesame, Cinnamon Raisin, Egg, Marble, Poppy, and Jalapeño Cheddar.

A person wearing a red t-shirt sits crosslegged on the ground, outside. Two beagle dogs are next to them - one beagle dog is sitting in their lap.

Animal Rescue League of Boston staff member helps care for two beagles (Sesame (left) and Cinnamon Raisin (right).

Local law enforcement contacted the Franklin County’s Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Team, which responded to the residence. The owners surrendered the dogs. An investigation is underway by local authorities. ARL is caring for and providing medical care to 10 of the beagles at its Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center, where a new state-of-the-art facility is being built that will allow ARL to care for more animals in these types of situations. The remaining beagles are being taken to organizations in New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts.

Help Give Overcrowded Rescue Dogs the Care They Deserve

Overcrowding is a complex issue that can lead to serious health concerns not only for animals, but for people living among them as well. Animals saved from overcrowding situations can have many health and behavior issues, and over the next few days and weeks, these dogs will need extraordinary care. A sudden influx of animals puts a strain on ARL’s resources.

ARL is asking the public for assistance to provide the care and support these animals need by donating. ARL is prepared to help anyone who has too many animals in the home, and works with pet owners to find a solution that works best for both the animals and people involved.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, call (617) 426-9170 for more information.


Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society® Spotlight

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 their apartment. Inside was a tiny black kitten, and they named him Mayday in honor of the urgent cries that led to his rescue.

When Mayday passed at the remarkable age of 21, the loss was deeply felt. Mayday had clearly made an impression on Sean, and he gently suggested they open their hearts to another cat—which led them to ARL.

After meeting with a few cats, Sean felt the tap of a little paw on his shoulder. He turned around to find James (then Jimmy) reaching out from his kennel. It was clear: James had chosen them. From that moment, he became a beloved part of the family, known fondly as “Lord James,” “Sir Meows-a-Lot,” and dozens of other affectionate nicknames.

Since then, Michael and Sean’s connection to ARL has only deepened. As proud members of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society®, they’ve made the meaningful decision to include ARL in their estate plans, ensuring that their love for animals will make a lasting impact long into the future.

“We’re fortunate to be in a place where we can help,” they shared. “Supporting ARL means we’re helping those who can’t speak for themselves.”

Their legacy gift reflects not only their trust in ARL’s mission, but their shared values: a commitment to community, a desire to protect vulnerable animals, and a deep appreciation for organizations that use resources wisely. “We wanted to be deliberate. We believe in ARL’s people, and its work—especially law enforcement, affordable veterinary care, and humane education.”

Michael and Sean support other important causes as well—ranging from cancer and HIV care to food security initiatives—but ARL holds a special place in their hearts. “Leaving a legacy with ARL is our way of making sure more animals can live a life like James’.”

Their story is a testament to the power of love—not only between two people, but between people and their pets. We are profoundly grateful to Michael and Sean, and to every member of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society, for their enduring compassion.

Did you know August is National Make-A-Will Month?

Just as animals have touched your life, you can forever touch the lives of animals by including the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) in your will or financial plans.

Learn how to leave your print and make more than a lifetime of impact for animals.

When you include ARL in your Will or other plans, you become a member of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society® and join the company of compassionate supporters like Michael and Sean, who want their dedication to the well-being of animals to continue long into the future.

Have you included, or are you thinking of including ARL in your will? Let us know so we can thank you! Please contact Jackie at jsmith@arlboston.org.