Category: News
Home / Advocacy /

It’s World Rabies Day!

Today marks World Rabies Day, a day to raise awareness about the public health impacts of human and animal rabies.

Rabies is a viral disease that can affect all mammals, including humans, and kills nearly 60,000 worldwide annually.

The virus attacks the central nervous system and can be secreted in saliva. Infected animals show no fear of humans, drool and act in an agitated fashion.

While we mostly associate rabies to wild animals – mainly skunks, raccoons, bats, coyotes, and foxes, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), cats have become the most common domestic animal infected with rabies.

Vaccination

Rabies vaccines are approved for dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep – and vaccination is the best measure to prevent rabies.

Every dog, cat, and ferret adopted from the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is vaccinated for rabies, however, it’s important to remember that after receiving an initial vaccination, your pet will need boosters.

Boosters are administered every year, or every 3 years, depending on which vaccine your pet receives.

It’s also important to remember that rabies vaccination in Massachusetts is the law!

To help ensure your pets are vaccinated, ARL’s Dedham and Brewster locations host rabies clinics annually, and for clients of either ARL’s Spay Waggin’® or Wellness Waggin’®, rabies vaccines, if needed, are included for every pet seen.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and Boston Veterinary Care (BVC) at ARL vaccinates thousands of animals annually!

Additional Prevention

Along with having your pet vaccinated, some other measures to prevent rabies exposure include:

    • Do not let your pets roam free. Keep cats indoors, and keep an eye on your pup when they are outside
    • Do not leave exposed garbage or pet food outside – it may attract wild or stray animals
    • Observe wild animals from a distance, and never handle unfamiliar animals, even if they appear friendly
    • If you see a wild animal acting strangely, contact your local animal control officer

Take a moment today to see if your pet’s rabies vaccine is up-to-date, and help us spread the word about World Rabies Day to ensure you, your family, and your pets stay safe from the rabies virus.

Rabbits Make Excellent Household Pets!

Info you can use for these cute and cuddly herbivores

From Rex to Angora to the French Lop, there are a wide variety of domestic rabbits, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) routinely has a large population of adoptable rabbits to choose from.

Rabbits make excellent pets!

Aside from being a great option for families living in smaller spaces, rabbits are incredibly clean, intelligent, friendly, and curious, making them fantastic pets!

Rabbit Basics

ARL believes that rabbits should always be housed indoors.

Your rabbit’s enclosure must be large enough to contain a litter box (yes, they can be litter box trained!), food bowls, a place to sleep, and enough room to explore and play.

Additionally, rabbits should experience at least three hours of out-of-enclosure time every day.

This allows rabbits more space to explore and play, and time for you to handle, work on training and cuddle up, which will strengthen the bond between you and your rabbit.

A Proper Diet

Rabbits need a variety of food in order to stay healthy, happy, and active.

The bulk of their diet should be high-quality fresh greens, with timothy hay provided at all times.

Pelleted rabbit food should used only as a supplement to the greens.

You’ll want to avoid alfalfa hay and alfalfa pellets, as alfalfa is too high in protein.

And while we all associate rabbits with carrots, carrots and fruit should only be offered in moderation as occasional treats, as the sugar content can promote tooth decay and also lead to weight gain.

Grooming

To keep you rabbit’s fur fluffy and mat-free, brushing should be a regular part of their out-of-enclosure time.

Keep in mind the frequency of brushing will depend on the length of your rabbit’s fur, and how well they groom themselves.

Brushing minimizes shedding, maintains a healthy coat, and aids in reducing hair ingestion.

Nail Trimming

Just like cats and dogs, rabbits need their nails trimmed carefully so as to not hit the blood vessels that run through the base of the nail (commonly called the “quick”).

Use a clipper designed specifically for pets, and nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks.

While trimming your rabbit’s nails, look for any urine staining on the paws, which is a sign the enclosure needing to be cleaned more regularly.

Oral Health

Rabbits need to have their mouths checked every few weeks for abscesses, as well as any abnormalities in their teeth.

Should you find any abnormalities, you’ll want to follow up with your regular veterinarian for a visit.

If your rabbit will not allow this type of handling, check for bad breath, drooling, eye or nasal issues, which are all signs of dental issues.

A proper diet will go a long way in promoting good oral health!

Litter Box

As previously mentioned, rabbits can be litter box trained!

Litter boxes designed for rabbits are available, but you can also use one made for cats.

Place a layer of hay on top of the litter, as this will entice the rabbit into the box to eat the hay and they often go to the bathroom and eat at the same time.

A second litter box is also recommended for use while your rabbit is exploring out of the enclosure.

Behavior

Over time, you will get to know your own rabbit’s favorite games and what truly makes them happy, as well as what he/she is trying to communicate to you with specific behaviors.

Here are a few behavior-related tips:

    • Chewing – Rabbits teeth grow continuously; therefore, they need things to chew in order to keep their teeth filed down. They can also chew if they’re bored or stressed.
    • Digging – Burrowing and digging is fun for rabbits. Give your rabbit a box of hay, or even just a big blanket that they can dig into.
    • Napping – Rabbits are most active during the morning and evening. During the middle of the day, they tend to enjoy short naps with small amounts of activity in-between.
    • Grunting/Thumping – Grunting and thumping are ways that your rabbit is telling you they are frightened, angry, or annoyed. You’ll want to give your rabbit a little space if you see these behaviors.
    • Chinning – Sometimes your rabbit may rub their chin on your stuff. This is your rabbit’s way of getting his/her scent all over your things in order to claim it as their territory.
    • Nudging – At times, your rabbit may approach you and nudge you gently with their nose. This can either mean they would like to be pet, or that you are in their way.
    • Binky – When your rabbit is really happy and having fun, they may run around your house and randomly jump up in the air, kicking their legs and wiggling their bodies – it’s of course very cute and fun to watch!

Ready to Adopt?

If you think a rabbit would be a great addition to your home and family, ARL is here to help.

ARL’s three Animal Care and Adoption Center locations routinely have a number of rabbits who are waiting for their perfect match, and the Adoption Forward adoption process is a conversation-based, application-free process designed so that the needs of both the animal and the adopter are understood and compatible with one another.

Prepare Your Pet for the Upcoming Nor’easter

Make sure your pet is ready before the storm arrives

A powerful nor’easter is expected to impact New England, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, coastal flooding, and the potential for power outages.

As you prepare your home for the approaching storm, don’t forget to plan ahead for your pets too!

Severe weather can create unexpected situations, and having supplies ready ahead of time can help keep you and your pets safe. In the event of a power outage, flooding, evacuation, or other emergency, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) recommends having a sturdy, comfortable crate or carrier on hand and preparing a pet emergency kit that is packed and ready to go.

Pack a Pet Emergency Kit

Keep your pet’s emergency supplies together in a water-resistant backpack or lightweight bag that can be easily grabbed if you need to leave home.

Your kit should include:

    • Food and water, at least three days’ worth
    • Portable food and water bowls
    • Any necessary medications, ideally enough for two weeks
    • Pet first aid supplies
    • Collar or harness with current ID tags
    • Extra leash
    • Cat Litter, litter box, or other sanitation supplies
    • Paper towels and trash bags
    • Copies of veterinary and vaccination records stored in a waterproof container
    • A recent photo of you with your pet, in case you are separated
    • Familiar toys, treats, or bedding to help provide comfort

Don’t forget to regularly check your emergency kit and replace expired food, medications, or other supplies as needed.

Plan Ahead for Your Pet’s Veterinary Needs

Before severe weather arrives, take a moment to make sure you have enough of any medications your pet may need and that important veterinary and vaccination records are easy to access.

If your pet has ongoing medical needs, planning ahead can help ensure you have the supplies and information you need if travel becomes difficult or your normal routine is disrupted by the storm.

ARL’s full-service, high-quality veterinary hospital, Boston Veterinary Care (BVC), is committed to helping pets stay healthy throughout every season. Located in Boston’s South End, BVC provides compassionate veterinary care while supporting ARL’s mission to help animals in need.

Learn more about BVC and its services.

Make Your Pet Easy to Identify

Strong winds, unfamiliar noises, or an emergency evacuation can create stressful situations for pets. If you and your pet become separated, you’ll want to be able to locate and identify them as quickly as possible.

Make sure the information on your pet’s collar and identification tags is up to date.

Microchipping your pet is another important way to help reunite you if you become separated. If your pet is already microchipped, take a moment before the storm to make sure your contact information is current.

It’s also a good idea to keep a recent photo of your pet, as well as a photo of you and your pet together, with your emergency supplies.

Know Where to Turn for Additional Support

ARL is not an emergency response agency and does not provide public emergency sheltering or disaster-response services during severe weather events. If you need additional assistance or information during the nor’easter, there are resources available to help you plan for the safety of both you and your pets.

The American Red Cross offers pet disaster-preparedness information, including guidance on emergency kits, evacuation planning, and identifying safe places to take your pets during an emergency.

Massachusetts residents can also visit the State of Massachusetts Animal Response Team (SMART) for information and resources related to animal emergency preparedness and disaster response throughout the Commonwealth.

If you are facing an immediate emergency, follow instructions from your local emergency management and public safety officials. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact an emergency veterinary hospital.

Prepare Now

Don’t wait until the weather takes a turn to gather supplies. Take some time before the nor’easter arrives to check your pet’s food, medications, identification, carrier, and other emergency essentials.
A little preparation now can help ensure that every member of your family, including the four-legged ones, is ready for the storm.

Stay safe, New England!

Animal Rescue League of Boston Welcomes Three New Members to Board of Directors

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is pleased to welcome Grace Fey, Katie Brennan Kane, and Kevin Mercer to its Board of Directors

Bringing expertise across investment management, financial planning, data and analytics, and nonprofit leadership, ARL’s newest Board members share a commitment to animal welfare and will help provide leadership and guidance as the organization continues its work to keep animals safe and healthy in the communities where they live.

Grace Fey

Grace Fey, CFA, is the President of Grace Fey Advisors and brings decades of investment management and nonprofit leadership experience to ARL’s Board of Directors. For 20 years, she was a partner of Frontier Capital Management Co., LLC, serving as Executive Vice President and Director.

Portrait of a smiling woman with short blonde hair, red lipstick, pearl earrings, and a cream blazer.

Grace Fey

Fey has held leadership positions with numerous organizations and currently serves as a Trustee and Chair of the Compliance Committee of the John Hancock Financial Services Funds and as Chair of the Investment Committee and a Trustee of the Mabel Louise Riley Foundation. Her extensive community involvement has also included leadership and board service with organizations including the UMass Foundation, GBH, Museum of Fine Arts Boston, Tufts Medical Center, Zoo New England, and The Boston Foundation.

Fey lives in Boston with her husband, Ted, and their two cats, Jenkins, a Norwegian Forest Cat, and Margaret Thatcher (Maggie), a Maine Coon.

Katie Brennan Kane

Katie Brennan Kane is Co-President and Chief Compliance Officer of Beacon Financial Planning, Inc., an independent registered investment advisory firm based on Cape Cod. She holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) and Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) designations.

Professional headshot of a smiling woman with long brown hair in a black blazer and white blouse.

Katie Brennan Kane

Kane brings her professional expertise and a passion for animal welfare and strengthening the bond between people and pets to ARL’s Board of Directors.

Her connection to ARL is also a personal one. Kane shares her home with her beloved dogs, Bogey and Ryder, with Ryder having been adopted from ARL’s Brewster Animal Care & Adoption Center.

Kevin Mercer

Kevin Mercer is Director of Data and Analytics at Madrigal Pharmaceuticals and brings a strong background in data, analytics, business, and finance to ARL’s Board of Directors.

Professional headshot of a smiling bearded man in a navy suit, white shirt, and patterned burgundy tie against a dark background.

Kevin Mercer

Mercer holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics from Hofstra University, a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Boston University, and both an MBA and Master of Science in Finance from Boston College.

Passionate about animal welfare, Mercer and his wife share their home with a husky named Nova and two cats they adopted through ARL. He is excited to bring his experience to the Board and help further ARL’s mission.

ARL is thrilled to welcome Fey, Kane, and Mercer to its Board of Directors and looks forward to the expertise, perspectives, and passion they will bring as the organization continues to serve animals and the people who care about them.

5 Tips for Labor Day Pet Safety

Some holiday weekend activities may be TOO HOT FOR SPOT®!

For many New Englanders, Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, but warm temperatures and outdoor activities can continue well into the fall.

Whether your holiday weekend includes a family gathering, backyard BBQ, trip to the beach, or another outdoor adventure, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and Boston Veterinary Care (BVC) remind pet owners that heat, crowds, unfamiliar surroundings, and increased activity can be overwhelming — and potentially dangerous — for our canine companions.

Before including your dog in the festivities, consider whether they’ll truly be comfortable joining you. Sometimes, the safest place for your pup is at home.

Follow These 5 Labor Day Pet Safety Tips

      1. Give your dog a cool, quiet place to relax
        Set them up in a cool, quiet room away from the activity. Closing windows and playing a TV, radio, or calming music at a low volume can help reduce distracting outdoor noises. Make sure they have access to fresh water and a comfortable place to rest.
      2. Keep your dog cool and secure outdoors
        If your dog joins you outside, keep them securely leashed and provide access to plenty of fresh water, shade, and good airflow. Limit strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day and watch closely for signs that your dog may be getting too warm.
      3. Keep pets away from holiday hazards
        BBQs, pools, food, beverages, and other gathering essentials can pose risks to curious pets. Keep dogs a safe distance from grills and open flames, and make sure potentially dangerous foods and other items are kept out of reach.Holiday gatherings can also be noisy and stimulating. If your dog appears anxious or overwhelmed, move them to a quieter space where they can relax.
      4. Never leave your pup alone in a parked car
        Even on a seemingly mild day, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise quickly and put pets at risk for life-threatening heatstroke. Cracking the windows does not make a parked car safe.If your plans include stops where your dog cannot accompany you, the safest choice is to leave them comfortably at home.
      5. Make sure identification information is up to date
        With doors opening and closing, visitors coming and going, and more time spent outdoors, holiday weekends can create additional opportunities for pets to slip away.Make sure your dog is wearing a secure collar with an up-to-date ID tag, and confirm that the contact information connected to their microchip is current. These simple steps can help reunite you with your pet quickly if you become separated.

Keep Your Pet Safe in the Heat

A little planning can help ensure Labor Day weekend is safe and enjoyable for every member of the family — including your pets.

For more warm-weather pet safety information, visit arlboston.org/summersafety

August is Microchip Month at Boston Veterinary Care!

Boston Veterinary Care (BVC) answers your Microchip FAQs

Did you know… that microchipping your pet DOUBLES their chances of finding their way home?

August 15 is National Check the Chip Day, and for good reason: During the Summer months, pets will be spending more time outside—or may find themselves extra eager to slip out the door into the sunshine. In the event that you and your pet ever become separated, you’ll want to make sure that you are reunited as quickly and easily as possible.

That’s where a microchip comes in handy! Once microchipped, your pet can be identified throughout its life with a one-of-a-kind ID number. For this reason, microchipping has become extremely popular for pet owners, and scanning pets for microchips has become standard practice in veterinary offices, animal hospitals, and animal shelters.

Q: What is a microchip?

A: A microchip is a tiny computer chip, about the size of a grain of rice, programmed with an identification number that is unique to your pet. It is non-toxic, non-allergenic, and will last the life of your pet with no maintenance required. The microchip is injected with a needle beneath the skin between the shoulder blades and is anchored in place as a thin layer of connective tissue forms around it.

Q: Will the implantation of the microchip cause my pet pain?

A: Your pet may feel a slight “pinch” as they would with any other needle injection. Once the microchip in place, however, it does not cause pain and cannot be felt by touch. Many pet owners opt to microchip their pet during routine exams, spay or neutering, or dental cleanings; it’s one less trip to the vet, and your furry companion will probably be too distracted to notice that the injection is happening.

size of a pet microchip

Ever wonder what a pet microchip looks like? It’s as small as a grain of rice!

Q: Can all cats and dogs receive a microchip, and at what age?

A: Absolutely! A microchip is recommended for all cats and dogs (even toy breeds) and can be implanted as early as 6-8 weeks of age.

Q: How does microchip identification work?

A: A special non-intrusive scanner is used to send a signal to the microchip to read the identification number. The person reading the scanner can search a national microchip registry to find out the pet owner’s information.

Q: Why should I microchip my pet; isn’t a collar enough?

A: In short, things happen. While a collar with ID tags is an excellent start, there is always a chance that they can be removed or fall off.  Think of a microchip as a permanent ID tag for your pet—and a fail-safe way to verify that you’re their owner.

Microchips have reunited thousands of pets with their owners, even ones who have been missing for years or traveled many miles away! If your pet were to go astray, any veterinarian’s office, animal hospital, or animal shelter would be able to scan your pet’s microchip and contact you immediately. Be sure to keep your contact information current in the national microchip registry database to ensure an easy reunion with your pet – some microchip companies even let you add a backup contact.

Q: My microchipped pet is missing. What do I do?

A: The first step is to contact your pet’s microchip manufacturer (e.g, PetLink, Home Again) and provide them with your pet’s unique microchip number. If your pet has already been located, they’ll be able to tell you where to pick up your pet. If your pet’s whereabouts have not yet been located, it means that their microchip has not yet been scanned by a local animal shelter, animal hospital, or veterinarian. The microchip manufacturer will put an alert in the system so that when your pet’s microchip IS scanned they can contact you right away.

Learn more about how to keep your pet safe this season.

Animal Rescue League of Boston Partners with NBCUniversal and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for 2026 Clear the Shelters Campaign

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to once again participate in NBCUniversal’s annual Clear the Shelters campaign, in partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, from August 1-31. The nationwide initiative celebrates the life-changing impact of pet adoption and helps connect more animals with loving families.

Clear the Shelters logo

As part of the campaign, adoption fees for small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and parakeets will be waived, while adoption fees for large adult dogs (one year and older weighing more than 40 pounds) will be reduced by $200 at all three ARL Animal Care & Adoption Centers.

While every animal deserves a loving home, some pets simply wait a little longer to find the right family. This is especially true of large adult dogs, as well as smaller companion animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and parakeets. During Clear the Shelters, ARL hopes to shine a spotlight on these wonderful animals and encourage more people to discover just how rewarding it can be to welcome these deserving animals into their homes.

Adult dogs often come with established personalities, making it easier to find a companion that fits your lifestyle. Many have already mastered basic manners and are ready to settle into a loving home. Whether you’re looking for a hiking buddy, a walking partner, or a couch companion, an adult dog could be the perfect fit. Senior dogs have so much love to give and often form incredibly strong bonds with their families, proving that it’s never too late to find your best friend.

Small companion animals also make incredible pets. Rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and parakeets each have unique personalities and can bring years of companionship to the right home. Despite this, they are sometimes overlooked by prospective adopters, making campaigns like Clear the Shelters an important opportunity to highlight everything they have to offer.

If you’ve been considering adoption, we invite you to visit one of ARL’s Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Brewster, or Dedham to meet the animals waiting for their next chapter.

ARL is grateful to NBCUniversal and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their continued partnership and commitment to helping more shelter animals find loving homes through the Clear the Shelters campaign.

ARL President & CEO Dr. Edward Schettino Featured in MassVet News: Expanding Access to Veterinary Care Across Greater Boston

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to share that President & CEO, Edward Schettino, DVM, PhD, CAWA, was featured in the June issue of MassVet News, the official publication of the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA).

In the article, “Meeting Pets Where They Are: How You Can Help Close the Veterinary Care Gap in Greater Boston,” Dr. Schettino explores the growing challenges many pet owners face in accessing affordable veterinary care and highlights how ARL’s innovative community veterinary programs are helping remove barriers that can put the human-animal bond at risk.

Meeting Communities Where They Are

For many families, pets are cherished members of the family. However, rising living costs and limited access to affordable veterinary services have made it increasingly difficult for some pet owners to provide the care their animals need. These challenges are particularly evident in underserved communities where transportation, financial constraints, language barriers, and limited veterinary resources can prevent families from seeking care before medical issues become emergencies.

As Dr. Schettino explains in the article, ARL recognized these challenges nearly a decade ago and shifted its focus beyond traditional shelter services by investing in preventative, community-based programs designed to keep pets healthy and in their homes.

A Community-Centered Approach

The article highlights the evolution of ARL’s community veterinary initiatives, beginning with the opening of a low-cost pet wellness clinic in Dorchester in 2018 and expanding with the launch of the Wellness Waggin’® mobile veterinary clinic in 2019.

Today, the Wellness Waggin’ brings affordable veterinary care directly into neighborhoods throughout Greater Boston, helping families overcome many of the barriers that can prevent them from accessing routine care. By partnering with trusted community organizations, ARL has created a model that supports both people and pets while strengthening communities.

Making a Measurable Difference

Dr. Schettino also shares the significant impact these programs have had since their launch. Together, ARL’s community veterinary initiatives have provided tens of thousands of wellness appointments, administered thousands of vaccinations, connected families with affordable spay/neuter services, distributed pet food to those in need, and contributed to a meaningful reduction in owner surrenders in the communities served. These results reinforce a simple but powerful idea: when veterinary care is accessible and affordable, families are better able to keep the pets they love.

An Invitation to the Veterinary Community

In his feature, Dr. Schettino also encourages fellow veterinarians to become part of the solution by volunteering with ARL’s Wellness Waggin’. Volunteer veterinarians play a vital role in expanding access to care for pets who might otherwise go without treatment while helping strengthen the bond between people and their animals. As demand for affordable veterinary care continues to grow, partnerships with the veterinary community remain essential to expanding these lifesaving services.

Get Involved

To learn how you can get involved with the Wellness Waggin’ and ARL’s other community programs, reach out to Sam Fincke at sfincke@arlboston.org. You can also learn more about ARL’s services including community programs, temporary pet housing, pet food and supplies, and low-cost spay/neuter services.

Keeping Pets Safe This July 4th

Why Fireworks and Furry Friends Don’t Mix

Fireworks and July 4th go hand-in-hand; however, they can cause stress and anxiety in our pets.

Fireworks are a beloved July 4th tradition, but they can cause significant stress and anxiety for pets.

Many dogs already struggle during thunderstorms, and while both storms and fireworks are loud, there’s a key difference:
Dogs can sense an approaching storm through changes in barometric pressure. Fireworks, on the other hand, are sudden, unpredictable, and startling.

“When storms happen, the barometric pressure will tell them that it’s coming; not with fireworks—and it’s so detrimental,” says Laney Nee, ARL’s Shelter Behavior and Enrichment Manager.

Fireworks can lead to anxiety and long-term behavioral issues in pets.
Common signs of distress include:

  • Shaking or trembling
  • Drooling
  • Barking or howling
  • Pacing or restlessness
  • Hiding or trying to escape
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

“Dogs only communicate through their voices, mouths, paws, and body language,” Nee explains. “When they’re exhibiting signs of fear and we interact with them, there’s a risk they could redirect that fear into aggressive behavior.”

The loud blasts and flashing lights can also cause pets to panic and run off. Shelters across the country often see a spike in lost pet reports around July 4th.

How to Help Keep Your Pet Safe

Here are tips to protect your furry friends this holiday:

  1. ID First: Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags. If they’re microchipped, confirm your contact info is current—just in case they get lost.
  2. Create a Safe Space: Set them up in a quiet room with their favorite toys. Turn on a TV, soft music, or a white noise machine to help mask outside noises.
  3. Reduce Light Exposure: If your pet is sensitive to the bright flashes, place them in a room without windows. Keep in mind: frightened animals may bolt when a door opens, so take precautions.
  4. Consult Your Vet: If your pet suffers from extreme anxiety, talk to your veterinarian about possible medications or calming supplements.
  5. Burn Off Energy: Take dogs for a long walk or play session before fireworks begin. Exercise can help reduce stress and encourage relaxation.
  6. Double-Check Exits: Make sure doors, windows, and backyard gates are securely closed.
  7. Keep Pets Home: Even pets that seem comfortable in crowds can become frightened by fireworks. Leave pets at home during celebrations and avoid bringing them to fireworks displays, parades, or other loud events.

What to Do If Your Pet Goes Missing

  1. Contact Animal Control: If your pet escapes, contact your local animal control with their information immediately.
  2. Notify Local Shelters: Reach out to nearby shelters to report your missing pet and provide a recent photo.
  3. Check Microchip Information: If your pet is microchipped, make sure your contact information is up to date and notify the microchipping company that your pet is missing.
  4. Spread the Word: Post a recent photo and details for your pet on local lost-and-found pet pages, neighborhood social media groups, and community bulletin boards.
  5. Search the Area: Walk through your neighborhood and check nearby yards, parks, and hiding spots. Bring treats, a favorite toy, or other familiar items to help attract your pet.

Cats and Small Animals

While dogs are often the most visibly affected, cats and other small pets can also experience stress from fireworks. Provide them with a quiet, secure area where they can retreat and feel safe.

ARL’s FREE Pet Behavior Helpline

ARL’s Pet Behavior Helpline is a FREE service, and can answer basic behavioral questions about your pet, such as excessive barking, crate training, house soiling, or if you are looking for ways to stave off your pet’s boredom.

If you have questions, please call the Pet Behavior Helpline at (617) 226-5666 or via email behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org, and an ARL representative will get back to you within 48 hours.

When the Temperatures Rise It’s Too Hot for Spot®

As summer approaches, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is once again launching its annual Too Hot for Spot® safety campaign to remind pet owners about the potentially deadly dangers of leaving animals inside parked vehicles.

During the warmer months, pets may be left in cars while their owners visit beaches, bike trails, grocery stores, banks, post offices, and other everyday destinations. It can be tempting to think, “I’ll only be gone for a few minutes,” but even a brief errand can take longer than expected, and a vehicle’s temperature can rise dangerously fast.

Even when the outside temperature is below 80 degrees and the windows are cracked, the inside of a parked vehicle can quickly heat to well over 100 degrees. Because animals cannot cool their bodies as efficiently as humans, they are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Symptoms can develop rapidly and may include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, confusion, collapse, or seizures.

Leaving an animal confined inside a vehicle during extreme heat or cold may also violate Massachusetts law when the conditions threaten the animal’s health or safety.

ARL created the annual Too Hot for Spot® campaign to raise awareness of these preventable dangers. Sadly, animals continue to suffer—and sometimes die—each year after being left inside hot vehicles.

When temperatures rise, the safest choice is simple: Leave your pet at home. Keep them in a cool, temperature-controlled space with plenty of fresh water. Outdoor walks and exercise should be limited to the cooler morning and evening hours, and hot pavement should always be avoided.

A quick stop is never worth risking your pet’s life.

Learn more about summer pet safety.

What To Do If You See a Pet in a Hot Car

If you see an animal alone inside a parked vehicle on a warm day, don’t wait to act. Note the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate, then immediately contact your local police or animal control. If the animal appears to be in distress – excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy – call 911 right away. You can also alert nearby businesses, who may be able to make a public address announcement to help locate the owner.

More Summer Pet Safety Resources

Summer can bring additional risks for pets, from swimming and boating activities to sudden thunderstorms. Explore these additional safety tips to help keep your pet comfortable and protected throughout the season: