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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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

ARL Reminds Pet Owners to Keep Pets Safe During Heat Wave

Tips to Protect Pets in Extreme Heat

With temperatures soaring over the next few days, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is reminding pet owners to take steps to keep pets safe as we experience extreme weather conditions.

Keep your pet safe and healthy by following these important basic guidelines:

  • Prevention is always your best bet. Whenever possible, leave your pet at home in a cool, low-humidity, and temperature-regulated room.
  • If your pet must be outdoors, find a shady spot with ample air flow to prevent overheating.
  • Hydration is key, so keep a bowl of cold water accessible at all times.
  • Limit exercise to the morning or evening hours when temperatures are at their coolest. Aside from the heat, the high humidity can cause respiratory issues for animals, particularly short-snouted animals (e.g., pugs).
  • When the temperatures rise, it’s Too Hot for Spot®! Never leave your pet alone in a parked car — even with the air conditioner on or the windows cracked.

It is illegal in Massachusetts to keep an animal confined in a vehicle during extreme hot or cold conditions, and when a weather advisory is issued, it is also illegal to keep dogs tethered for longer than five hours in a 24-hour period. Dogs also cannot be tethered outdoors between 10 PM and 6 AM, unless for not more than 15 minutes, and when the owner/keeper is present.

See an animal that is in imminent danger or distress? If so, contact your local animal control or police department immediately.

More summer pet safety tips.

ARL Rescues Kitten from Storm Drain Near I-95 On-Ramp in Canton

Kitten was underweight, now in foster care

A six-week-old kitten is safe and sound in foster care after being rescued from a storm drain near the on-ramp to I-95 in Canton by the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) Field Services Department.

ARL received a call on July 19 from a passerby who spotted the kitten wandering on Neponset Street in Canton and given his size and the fact he was alone, ARL immediately sprang into action to ensure the safety of the animal.

Pigeon in ARL’s Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center.

Once on-scene, ARL agents scoured a wooded area where the kitten was spotted and after a short time, could hear him crying – from inside a storm drain.

Once the exit pipe was located, agents set a humane trap and played kitten sounds to lure him out of his hiding place.

After a short wait, the kitten came out and was immediately drawn to the food that had been placed in the trap.

When he began ravenously eating, the trap closed, and agents prepared him for the short transport drive to ARL’s Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center.

The kitten, now named Pigeon, was very thin, weighing just over a pound, and was extremely dirty, but was otherwise healthy.

He will remain in foster care for several weeks to gain weight and reach the appropriate age to be neutered and will then be made available for adoption.

ARL reminds the public that anyone who spots a domestic animal in distress or danger is urged to contact ARL Field Services for assistance at (617) 426-9170 x563.