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ARL Named an Early 2026 Top-Rated Award Winner by Great Nonprofits

Thank You to Everyone Who Shared Their Stories and Made This Recognition Possible

Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is honored to be among the first organizations recognized with a 2026 Top-Rated Award from Great Nonprofits, the leading platform for community-sourced stories about nonprofit impact.

Award winners are determined by stories and reviews shared by supporters—including donors, adopters, volunteers, and fosters—who highlight their firsthand experiences and offer insights for others considering getting involved.

This recognition reflects the voices of our community and the meaningful experiences they’ve had with ARL. We are deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to share their stories.

Some Recent Stories Shared

A man in a gray shirt and cap is joyfully holding a brindle dog with a red collar. The dog affectionately licks his face, conveying happiness and warmth.

ARL foster working with an adoptable dog at the Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center

“I have been a volunteer with the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) since 2011 and can easily say I’ve never worked with a more dedicated group of people. It’s obvious that the staff cares deeply about the animals at the shelter, ensuring that each one gets the attention and care that they need to thrive, and the team works tirelessly to find each animal the right home. As a weekend volunteer, I have always felt welcomed and extremely appreciated – I really enjoy volunteering at the Animals Rescue League of Boston, not only to work with the shelter animals but also because of how much fun it is to work alongside the ARL staff. I have recommended the ARL to several friends and colleagues who were looking to adopt, and everyone has always had a very positive experience. I would highly recommend the Animal Rescue League to anyone interesting in adopting or experiencing a wonderful volunteer opportunity.” – ARL volunteer

A tricolored cat lies on a navy couch with legs crossed. Its large green eyes gaze directly at the camera. A yellow pillow with leaf patterns is beside it.

A small tricolored cat lies on a navy couch

“I adopted my first kitten (as an adult) from the ARL last summer, and the whole experience was fantastic. Professional staff, and adorable animals. The process was simple, and we are so thankful for the ARL for bringing our cat into our lives.” – ARL adopter

Small white dog with large ears wearing a red harness, looking up curiously. The background shows grass and a concrete path.

Bailey in foster

“I’m privileged to serve as a foster home for ARL. My first assignment was a pair of elderly animals whose guardian was hospitalized. She was able to get her four dogs housed and loved while she focused on healing. My next was an emaciated 2 lb. Chihuahua, Bailey, who needed to slowly gain weight and heal his skin infections before he could be adopted. From rescuing animals in hoarding situations to advocating in the legislature to capturing panicked animals last and alone — I don’t know of any other organization that offers to same breadth and quality of care for animals in need.” – ARL foster

 

Check Us Out on Great Nonprofits

Visit our Great Nonprofits profile to read more stories from animal lovers like you. If you’ve had an experience with ARL, we’d be grateful if you considered sharing a review. Your voice helps others learn about our work and strengthens our community.

Community Cat Match

Community cats need you now! A generous donor is matching all donations for community cats, up to $20,000, now through July 15, 2026!

Your $9 to help local cats will become $18 and can provide TWICE as many:

    • ️Nutritious meals
    • Life-saving vaccines and medication
    • Toys and scratch pads that help cats engage and play

ARL is the only large animal welfare org in MA with a dedicated agent working with community cats and kittens.

But, with no government funding for this important work, cats must rely on financial support from people like you to get the care they need, when they need it most, 365 days a year.

donate button

Why Your Support Matters

Community cats and kittens are feral, stray, and abandoned cats who live outdoors in the harsh elements. It is estimated over 700,00 cats roam free in Massachusetts with 70,000 in Boston alone.

Without proper shelter and care, community cats are at serious risk of illness and injury. Extreme weather, like what we see in the summer and winter months, can be devasting for these vulnerable animals.

With your help, we can assess colonies and develop TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) plans for each cat. TNR is one of the most humane and effective ways to stop the cycle of homelessness among cats. Spay and neuter surgeries are low-risk and proven to improve the safety and health of these cats as well as the community as a whole. The plan also includes vaccines, and whether each cat will be returned to the colony, returned to their owner if microchipped, or admitted to an ARL shelter to be put up for adoption if they are friendly.

donate button

 

Two kittens sitting next to each otherMeow-o-meter: Tracking Impact

Thanks to the generosity of cat lovers, the following progress has been made possible:

208 TNR’s in 2025
1,138 TNR’s in the last five years

697 Adoptions in 2025
3,115 adoptions in the last five years

 

 

Community Cat Adoptions 2021-2025

 

community cat adoptions from 2021-2025 graph

 

A Community Cat Adoption Story

Yogurt, now called Yogi, came to ARL in July 2022 in very poor condition: underweight, flea-infested, with a distended abdomen, a fractured leg, and a severe tail wound. After a leg amputation and four months in WUO (wound of unknown origin) quarantine, he was adopted and quickly settled into his new home with Cupcake, another ARL alum. Now speedy and mischievous, Yogi loves toys, tunnels, cat towers, and watching for his family at the front window, then racing to the door to greet them. His family says he’s been a fun, special addition to their home.

A gray kitten with yellow eyes relaxes on a soft, white, fluffy blanket, looking directly at the camera

Yogurt, now named “Yogi”

ARL’s Pup Rally Celebrates the Patriots’ Road to Super Bowl LX

Adoptable Pups Show Their Patriots Pride as the Community Rallies Behind Them

This week, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) has been busy celebrating the Patriots’ road to Super Bowl LX with a very special “Pup Rally.”

Our adoptable pups have been showing off their Patriots pride, sporting jerseys and bandanas generously donated by the Patriots Foundation. The shelter has been filled with team spirit—and plenty of wagging tails. Search adoptable dogs.

Two dogs wearing blue sports jerseys playfully tug at a green toy shaped like a football on a tan floor.

ARL dogs, Fran and Manny Jones, play tug with a Patriots dog toy

The excitement doesn’t stop there. We’ve placed a friendly wager with Seattle Humane: the shelter associated with the losing team must name a few dogs after the winning team’s players. We can’t wait to see which dog in Seattle will be named Vrabel. Let’s go, Patriots!

ARL is also proud to partner with Pawtriots, a special initiative from the Kraft Family and the Patriots Foundation that highlights adoption as a powerful way to improve the lives of animals and make a lasting difference.

The stats tell the story of an incredible team effort: you, along with 167,000 social media followers, 10,969 donors, 1,131 volunteers, 609 foster families, 60 sponsors, and 32 corporate groups, helped 19,512 animals last year.

Our community of animal lovers like you makes so much possible. Thank you for being part of this winning lineup.

Valentine’s Card Shuffle

This year, surprise someone you care about—or yourself!—with a one-of-a-kind, animal-themed Valentine’s Day card that’s sure to delight.

Whether you’re sending it to yourself or surprising a loved one, your card could be:

  • Sweet and adorable!

  • Unexpectedly hilarious!

  • Just plain quirky (in the most lovable way)!

The only thing we can promise? It will be uniquely animal-inspired and guaranteed to make someone smile.

 How it works:
For a $25 donation or more, you’ll receive one mystery Valentine’s Day card. Choose to send it to yourself or let us deliver the surprise straight to someone special, your choice!

By joining in the fun, you’re not just spreading love—you’re supporting animals in need. It’s a heartfelt way to celebrate the season of love while making a real difference.

 Don’t wait!
There’s only a limited number of mystery cards available. Shuffle up some Valentine’s Day joy before it’s too late.

I Want My Mystery Valentine!
ARL Offers Tips to Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is reminding pet owners of some things to keep in mind to help keep our pets safe and healthy as we celebrate with friends, family, food and festivities!

Plants and Decorations

Pet owners should be aware of the holiday plants being brought into the home – mistletoe, holly, some types of lilies can cause a host of issues if they are ingested and additionally, poinsettias, while traditional, can also be toxic. Stick to artificial plant decorations, or opt for a pet-friendly bouquet.

If you have a Christmas tree, make sure it’s anchored so it doesn’t tip over and injure your pet, and also be sure to keep pets from drinking the tree water which could cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

For decorations, with its sparkle, tinsel can be mistaken for a toy, but if ingested can cause vomiting, dehydration or even a blockage in the digestive tract, so in short, if you have pets, leave the tinsel in the box!

Also, be sure to never leave candles unattended, and keep wires, batteries and ornaments out of reach of your pet’s paws.

small dog sniffing sweets in a bowl

Foods to Avoid

We all know that chocolate is a no-no, but there are also potential dangers hidden in many of the side dishes and snacks we enjoy during the holidays.

These include onions, garlic, grapes and raisins, nuts, milk and dairy, and xylitol, which is a sweetener found in many products including candy, gum and baked goods, can all be toxic to our pets.

Do not give your dog bones, either cooked or raw! Bones can splinter, causing intestinal obstructions and even fracture teeth.

Be mindful while cooking – consider keeping pets out of the kitchen and remind your guests not to feed your pets any scraps!

Should your pet ingest any items that may be toxic, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

white cat laying on bookshelf

Holiday Gatherings

If your hosting family or friends for the holidays, it could be a stimulus overload for your pet, causing anxiety and overexcitement. And in turn unpleasant behaviors may surface so be sure to set up your pet for success before your guests arrive.

Give your pets get plenty of attention and exercise prior to guests arriving because we all know tired pets are more apt to be better behaved pets!

With guests constantly coming and going, it’s best to remind visitors to be mindful when entering and exiting your home to ensure your pet does not make a great escape in all of the excitement – if they are overanxious they may make a dash for the door!

Additionally, provide your pet with a safe space away from your guests should they need an escape from the excitement.

The space should have fresh water, food, and items to keep them occupied including toys, or perhaps a food puzzle and bedding so they can be comfortable.

With a bit of preparation, you can help ensure a safe, happy, and worry-free holiday season for both you and your pets.

ARL Hosts Adoption Event To Celebrate Hill’s Milestone

Waived Adoption Fees for Boston Pets Ages 1+ Through December 14

ARL is teaming up with Hill’s Pet Nutrition (Hill’s) to offer WAIVED adoption fees for animals at ARL’s Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center one year and older through December 14th! Adopters will also receive a New Pet Parent Kit from Hill’s, which includes a starter bag of Hill’s Science Diet, a coupon and post-adoption tips.

The event is part of Hill’s “Sweet 16 Million Adoptions Celebration,” which honors the milestone of 16 million pet adoptions supported by the Hill’s Food, Shelter & Love program since its inception in 2002.

“We are thrilled to join Hill’s in this national celebration by offering waived adoption fees at our Boston location. This partnership ensures that more deserving animals like Fiona find the comfort of a home this holiday season.” said ARL President and CEO Dr. Edward Schettino.

The Hill’s Food, Shelter & Love program provides discounted, science-led nutrition to over 1,000 North American animal shelters every day, including for the dogs and cats at ARL. As a proud partner of the program, ARL is excited to join shelters nationwide in celebrating this achievement and help deserving shelter pets in Boston find homes this holiday season. During the adoption campaign, Hill’s will contribute up to $200,000 to offset adoption fees at select Food, Shelter & Love partner locations in the United States and Canada.

ARL’s Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Dedham, and Cape Cod (Brewster) are open Wednesday through Sunday from 1pm to 6pm.

View all of ARL’s adoptable animals looking for a home for the holidays!

ARL Receives Largest-Ever Donation For New Boston Shelter

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) received a $2 million gift from Arthur and Paula Rabe on November 13, 2025.

The contribution will go towards the ARL’s capital campaign to construct a new three-story, 35,000 square foot $48 million facility in the South End.

“Our Boston shelter is the heart and soul of ARL, but it is outdated and no longer meets the standard of care that animals deserve and that we can provide,” said Dr. Edward Schettino, ARL President & CEO.

A revamped facility will better meet the needs of local animals, including transports from across the country. ARL has seen an increased demand for animal services in the last five years due to the ongoing housing crisis, food insecurity and high cost of veterinary care. ARL has had a 100% increase in the number of pet meals provided to owners facing barriers, and a 104% increase in low-cost wellness exams for pets in the community.

ARL began construction on the new facility over the summer after announcing the project in October 2024. ARL is working with Animal Arts, a Colorado-based architecture firm dedicated to creating animal spaces for animal welfare organizations and veterinary hospitals, and Boston-based architect Jonathan Garland with JGE to design the building’s exterior.

“This new building will provide an accessible, affordable center so people who desire an animal can share their lives with one,” said donor Arthur Rabe.

The Rabe family has contributed to the ARL Boston since they adopted their cat Jill in 2007. They reside with their son Logan and their other cat Paul in Chestnut Hill.

When Feeding Pets Becomes a Struggle

More families need help keeping their pets fed

No one should ever have to choose between feeding themselves and their pets. Yet for the 1.1 million Massachusetts’ residents whose budgets are affected by current events and changes in family food support, this hardship is a stark reality.

Many of our family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues are experiencing food insecurity, leading to an increase in stress and serious health risks from poor nutrition. And when people go hungry, their pets go hungry, too.

Pets are family. They give us unconditional love in return for our meeting their basic needs of food, water, shelter, and care. A companion animal also drastically improves our physical and mental well-being, especially during these uncertain times. But what happens during a national hunger crisis when putting kibble into the bowl is a challenge?

The cost of owning a pet is rising rapidly. The average cost of food, supplies, and routine veterinary care for a cat or dog is over $1,000 annually. When this high cost is combined with an emergency – such as a sudden health issue, a change in housing, or another unforeseen circumstance – owners face the difficult decision of what to do next.

Fortunately, organizations like the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) are here to help. ARL provides pet food and essential supplies to clients living in Greater Boston and on Cape Cod who are facing financial hurdles. In 2025 so far, ARL has provided meals to 1,524 pets on a monthly basis

Times are tough. In this season of giving, it’s more important now than ever to lend a paw to help pets in the community.

1. Help stock ARL’s pet food pantry. So far this year, an unprecedented 1,300 owners have called ARL seeking pet food. Our resources are stretched to the limit, and we need your help to keep pets fed. You can make an immediate impact in the fight against pet hunger today.

  • Donate Food Directly: View our digital wish lists of our most critically needed pet food. Items are shipped directly to ARL.
  • Organize a Drive: Start a pet food collection drive at your school, university, workplace, or place of worship to gather donations from your community.
  • Drop Off Donations: Bring unopened, unexpired, shelf-stable pet food directly to ARL’s Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Dedham, or Cape Cod (Brewster). Drop-off hours are Wednesday through Sunday, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
  • Make a Financial Gift: Monetary donations allow us to purchase exactly what is needed most. You can make a secure gift online.

2. Donate to your local food bank or human service organization. When we take care of humans, we also take care of their pets. Dozens of organizations in the Greater Boston area, including Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) continue to be a critical resource for families, providing assistance with food, housing, and other basic needs. ARL currently distributes pet food at ABCD Food Pop-Ups in Mattapan and East Boston, ensuring that as families receive help, their beloved animals are cared for, too.

ARL staff members work to hand out pet food at ABCD pop-ups

No one should ever have to give up their beloved companion because pet food is too expensive. If you need assistance, you’re not alone. View a full list of ARL’s free and low-cost services to help you keep your pet.

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.