Category: Blog
Home / Blog /
The Rising Cost of Veterinary Care

‘It blew me away’: Skyrocketing veterinary bills are hitting Massachusetts pet parents hard

By Dana Gerber Globe Staff, Updated November 7, 2025

Article excerpt:

Edward Schettino, president of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said the private equity push is “a large part” of climbing prices. According to data from Pitchbook, the number of private equity deals in the veterinary industry began ramping up about a decade ago, cresting in 2021, just as the pandemic drove a boom in pet ownership. The trend has drawn the ire of Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, who last year accused private equity firms of jacking up vet prices.

“Back in the day, most veterinary practices were owned by individuals or families, and that has dramatically changed over the years,” Schettino said, adding that mounting labor costs associated with a veterinarian shortage are also playing a part.

As a way to help defray costs for pet owners, the Animal Rescue League of Boston in 2019 launched the Wellness Waggin’®, a mobile vet clinic that offers $20 exams in Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, and East Boston, where there are few other providers, Schettino said.

It’s still not enough. Compared to this time last year, Schettino said, the nonprofit has seen a 78 percent increase in the number of dogs and cats being surrendered to them due to cost of care, representing hundreds of pets.

Read the full article on bostonglobe.com

5 Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Should Avoid

Keep your pup happy and healthy this holiday season

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, good food, and great company – including our pets! While it’s tempting to slip your dog a little taste from your plate, some holiday favorites can actually cause serious harm.

Before your pup partakes in Thanksgiving the feast, here are five foods to keep off their menu:

    1. Turkey Bones
      They might seem like a classic treat, but turkey bones can easily splinter and get lodged in your dog’s throat or digestive tract. This can lead to choking, internal injuries, or even surgery. So skip the bones and opt for a dog-safe chew instead.
    2. Fat Trimmings
      Rich, fatty foods are tough for dogs to digest and can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. Watch for signs like vomiting, abdominal pain, or lethargy, and keep the greasy leftovers far from your pup’s bowl.
    3. Raw Dough and Cake Batter
      Unbaked dough can potentially rise inside your dog’s stomach, causing bloating and severe discomfort. And if the batter contains raw eggs, there’s also a risk of salmonella. Let your pup “help” in the kitchen by supervising, not taste-testing.
    4. Nutmeg
      This seasonal spice adds warmth to pies and lattes, but it’s toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause tremors, seizures, and vomiting. When baking, keep spiced treats safely out of reach.
    5. Raisins and Grapes
      Even tiny amounts of raisins or grapes can cause kidney failure in dogs. Since the reason for their toxicity is still unknown, it’s safest to steer clear altogether.

There are safer ways to include your dog in the celebration!

The best way for your pet to partake in the holiday cheer? Stick with traditional treats that are safe for dogs and cats! Food puzzles and interactive toys like a Kong filled with plain yogurt, peanut butter and 100% real pumpkin are a great way to keep your canine entertained and feeling satisfied all holiday long.

Bonus tip: Keep your vet’s emergency number handy. Should your pet become ill, contact your pet’s veterinarian or the local animal hospital’s number! A quick call to either of them can give you life-saving advice or even help you avoid a trip to the ER. 

A Paws-itive Partnership: ARL and Copeland Subaru Find Homes for Dogs

The “Bark & Bagels” adoption event, part of the nationwide Subaru Loves Pets® month, successfully connected local families with adoptable dogs in Hyannis

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) received support for local shelter animals through grant funding from Copeland Subaru Hyannis and an adoption event held on Saturday, October 18 which helped two dogs, Penne and Barney, find new homes in the community. The effort was part of Subaru Loves Pets®, a national Subaru initiative to support the lives of as many shelter animals as possible. ARL brought five dogs to the event and two were adopted. Barney was at ARL for 4 weeks and was the Brewster location’s longest shelter resident.

A black and brown dog sitting outside next to two people.

Barney with his new family!

“Pets make all of our lives better and Copeland Subaru is happy to do our small part in helping to find good homes for our furry friends. We appreciate our growing partnership with Animal Rescue League and look forward to growing this into a year-round event,” said Bryan Scarpellini, Managing Partner of Copeland Subaru Hyannis.

ARL organized the pet event, in collaboration with Copeland Subaru Hyannis, to raise awareness for Cape Cod pets in need. During the month of October, Copeland Subaru Hyannis and over 630 Subaru retailers nationwide worked with the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) to provide grants to local partner shelters resulting in over $3 million in donations.*

ARL staff posing outside next to a table with ARL materials

ARL staff outside of Copeland Subaru Hyannis

Subaru is proud to have donated over $70 million since 2008 to national and local organizations that help in the adoption, rescue, transport, and health of over 700,000 animals and pets. In addition to hosting the pet adoption event, Copeland Subaru Hyannis helped celebrate the seventh annual National Make A Dog’s Day by encouraging the local community to do something special for the dogs in their lives, adopt a shelter dog, or volunteer at an animal shelter and share the experience on social media using the hashtag #MakeADogsDay.

More information about Subaru Loves Pets.

*Subaru retailers provided grants based on previously selected tier to local shelter before October so it could be used throughout the month.

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.

Dogs Rescued from Alleged Dogfighting and Breeding Operations

Last week, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) received six dogs from Humane World for Animals after being rescued from alleged dogfighting operations in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and a large-scale case of alleged neglect at a breeding operation in Harford County, Maryland.

Wrangler, a one-year-old pittie mix, was among the dogs rescued from the dogfighting operation in Indiana, involving 22 animals. The region was under a heat advisory with the heat index reaching approximately 110 degrees when responders arrived at the first property, where they found dogs panting and in filthy hutches and cages. Despite the scorching heat, many of the dogs had no access to water, and some had significant scarring consistent with dogfighting. On the second property, dogs were found on heavy chains outdoors with inadequate protection from the elements – while other dogs were found in cramped cages inside with no water. Responders discovered dogfighting paraphernalia on the properties, including several treadmills and a stand typically used in dogfighting operations to restrain dogs for breeding.

A person leaning over a medium-sized black dog. The dog is looking up at the person

Wrangler

Calendar, Coffee, Fitbit, Slinky and Tassle, all Havanese-mixes between 11 weeks and 5 years old, were rescued from a breeding operation in Maryland, involving over 100 animals. Rescuers were overwhelmed by the odor of ammonia and feces emanating from the residence. Dogs were found roaming throughout the residence, while others were contained in filthy, stacked wire-bottom cages without apparent access to food or water. Some of the dogs were severely matted, and veterinarians noted several suffering from painful dental disease, eye discharge and skin infections. Veterinarians noted many of the dogs were underweight and some were emaciated.

a person wearing PPE, holding two small dogs

Coffee and Fitbit

All of the dogs are fearful, but most are in relatively good health. All six dogs underwent medical evaluations at ARL’s Dedham Animal Care & Adoption Center and will receive veterinary attention and care before being made available for adoption.

two small black and white dogs sitting close together on a bed inside their dog kennel

Slinky and Tassle

“The Animal Rescue League of Boston is honored to welcome these resilient dogs who have endured unimaginable suffering and deplorable conditions. We are dedicated to providing them with the loving homes and lives they truly deserve, and it is our privilege to help them as they begin their journey of healing,” said Dr. Edward Schettino, ARL President and CEO.

Make a donation to support these dogs.

*Note: These dogs are currently not available for adoption. 

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.

4 Tips to Protect Your Pets This Halloween:

  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.

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.

Carve Out Some Fun This Halloween!

Download our free pumpkin carving templates featuring cute animal designs.

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.

Easing Back-to-School Stress for Pets

Steps to Help Your Pets Adjust to New Routines

As Greater Boston families settle back into the school-year routine, it’s easy to forget that our pets notice the change too. Dogs and cats, in particular, are deeply attuned to our daily patterns. When the morning rush returns, pets may begin to show signs of stress—such as following you from room to room, becoming clingier, or displaying more concerning behaviors like depression, excessive barking, house soiling, or destructive chewing.

The good news is that there are 6 simple steps you can take to ease your pet’s anxiety and keep them happy during back-to-school season:

  1. Make mornings playful. Add a few minutes of play to your pet’s morning walk and slip in a special treat. Keep goodbyes low-key when you leave, as too much fuss can make departures harder.
  2. Offer a distraction. A food puzzle, treat-stuffed toy, or small bits of kibble hidden around the house can keep pets busy during the first half-hour after you go.
  3. Turn on some background noise. A radio or soft music can be comforting because it mimics the sound of a full household.
  4. Consider midday care. A dog walker can offer a nice break during the day , while doggie daycare may be an option for pets left alone more than eight hours. (Don’t forget: all daycare facilities are not created equal, so check out ARL’s Board Safely® guidelines for important questions to ask!)
  5. Keep greetings calm. When arriving home, reward your dog for calm behavior rather than reinforcing their excitement with immediate eye contact, petting, or high-pitched greetings.
  6. Make evenings matter. Dedicate time after dinner for interactive play. For cats, bring out toys or a pinch of catnip; for dogs, family time and positive attention reinforce that they are loved and secure.

    ARL’s Free Pet Behavior Helpline

    If your pet seems overwhelmed by their new routine, contact the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) FREE Pet Behavior Helpline at (617) 226-5666 or  behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org for support about your dog, cat, or small animal.

    Additionally, if you have school-aged children living in your household, remind them to keep backpacks off the floor. Packed lunches and snacks should stay out of reach, as grapes, raisins, chocolate, gum, candy, and other foods can be toxic to pets. Download our free Bark-to-School Guide.

    Our pets give us unconditional love, and with a little extra thought this season, we can help them adjust to the back-to-school bustle feeling safe, loved, and part of the family.

    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.