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Protecting Animals from the Harsh Reality of the Rodeo

A letter of concern regarding the Boston Rodeo by Edward Schettino, DVM, PhD, CAWA, ARL’s President & CEO

Dear Reader,

This weekend, Boston will be host to its second rodeo-like event in just a few short months, when Professional Bull Riders’ “Unleash the Beast” tour comes to the TD Garden for the first time. While these events are marketed as entertainment that evokes images of the Old West and classic movies, the reality behind the scenes is far different. Despite claims of high standards of care, many rodeo activities—especially bull riding—prioritize profit over the basic welfare of animals.

Many people are surprised to learn that rodeos are specifically exempt from the Federal Animal Welfare Act. State laws around cruelty to animals apply, but criminal penalties for animal cruelty do not prevent much of the harm that these animals endure. Many rodeo associations have standards and rules, but they are self-regulating with no independent oversight.

Bull riding is one of the most harmful activities for both animals and humans. A rider’s goal is to stay on a bucking bull for eight seconds, but bucking is a fight-or-flight response by the bull to protect itself from predators and escape.

In the chute, a flank strap is tightened around the bull’s sensitive abdomen. When the gate opens, the bull kicks and spins in a desperate attempt to escape the strap and the agitation of the rider, lights, and noise. Scoring rewards this distress — more points are given for bulls that kick harder or react more violently. Invoking this response is exploiting the bull’s fear for entertainment.

Bull riding sees tragic injuries to both bulls and rider. We’ve seen instances where bulls suffer injuries so severe that euthanasia is the only humane option.

The danger isn’t confined to the arena. In recent years, bulls have escaped numerous events, including right here in Massachusetts when eight bulls ran through a busy neighborhood after a fence failure; in Oregon when a bull charged into a crowd and injured five; and in Colorado when a bull escaped and threatened public safety over the course of four days before it was found.

Massachusetts is already a leader in protecting animals in entertainment, having recently banned exotic traveling animal acts. It’s time for Boston to take the next step.

We must join other forward-thinking cities and prohibit the use of rodeo implements—like flank straps and electric prods—designed to induce pain, fear, and suffering. Our entertainment should never come at the expense of an animal’s safety or the public’s well-being.

Sincerely,

a signature in blue ink representing Edward Schettino

Edward Schettino, DVM, PhD, CAWA
President & CEO

How Year-End Donations Help Animals in Need

Support From Year-End Giving Helps the Animal Rescue League of Boston Care for Animals Like Mouse

As 2025 comes to a close, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is in its busiest fundraising period of the year, with thousands of donations expected to be processed in the next 48 hours, a critical period for nonprofit organizations everywhere. ARL’s year-end fundraising push helps to care for animals like Mouse, an 8-month-old German Shepherd recovering from severe malnourishment.

A person in a red hoodie kneels, gently holding a tan, underweight dog on a green leash in a bright room.

Mouse

In 2024, 10% of all dollars ARL raised were received between December 29 and December 31. With just $45,000 left to reach its fundraising goal for 2025, ARL’s staff is hard at work. Despite a recent poll that found most Americans aren’t making year-end charitable contributions this year, ARL is counting on the resonance of its mission with its supporters to help the organization close the gap. ARL does not receive any government funding and relies solely on philanthropy to fund its ~$15 million annual operating budget.

Mouse recently arrived at ARL dangerously underweight and in urgent need of care. He is currently on a strict, medically supervised re-feeding plan to help him gain weight safely so he can rebuild his strength. Mouse needs specialized nutrition, months of medical treatment, and constant monitoring. The estimated cost for ARL to care for Mouse over the next few months is at least $2,800. Mouse has a long, difficult road ahead of him. Donations will help provide Mouse with expert care to get him healthy, constant support and time to get his strength back. Please consider making a year-end donation today.

Welcome A New Pet During the Holidays?

Animal Rescue League of Boston Offers Tips and Resources for Families

At a time when many families are welcoming new pets into their homes, Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) shares expert resources and advice about settling furry family members into a new environment. Resources include ARL’s Pet Behavior Helpline – a free service that can answer basic pet behavioral questions. Whether it’s excessive barking, crate training, house soiling, or another issue, pet families with questions can call the Pet Behavior Helpline at (617) 226-5666 or via email behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org.

“It’s very special to welcome a new family member to the household, especially during the holiday season. These first few weeks as a family are very important and ARL is here with the resources and guidance to make the experience positive and joyful for pets and their new families,” says ARL Animal Behavior Manager, Laney Nee.

Tips for Early Days With Dogs and Cats

  • Have a ‘safe space’ for your new pet set up and ready for them – somewhere they can call their own that may contain their special toys, bedding, scratching trees for cats or a crate for dogs – this space helps them get comfortable.
  • Less is more when introducing your pet to their new life, so be aware of all the new things your pet is experiencing and recognize when they might be overwhelmed and need a break.
  • Go back to basics with house training for dogs and provide easy access to food, water and litter boxes for cats until they get used to their new spaces.

Tips for Daily Routines

  • Create a routine for you and your new pet right from the beginning.
  • Change can be overwhelming so creating a routine for your new dog is a key to success. The routine should have set times for potty breaks, meals, walks, playtime, and independent time in their own space with special toys and treats which get put away till the next time they are back in their safe space.
  • A routine can help ensure your new cat has the opportunity to follow their instincts which includes their need to hunt, catch, eat, groom, and sleep. There are many ways to accomplish this with many homemade items such as boxes, egg cartons, paper bags, toilet paper and paper towel rolls for treat puzzles.

Tips for Relationship Building

    • Get active
      • Sniffari walks– let your dog stop and sniff!
      • Explore a new neighborhood – the usual neighborhood walks can get boring and routine – consider walking or driving to a different neighborhood to explore.
      • Two toy fetch – alternate tossing two toys to your dog while walking.
    • Keep them engaged
      • Use a snuffle mat or wrap some treats up in a towel and let dogs use their nose to snuffle around and find all the food, or make a “licky mat” with canned food, peanut butter or cream cheese – smear it on a lick mat and they can spend time licking it until it’s all gone.
      • Enroll in dog training classes and teach your dog new skills, ARL has a variety of offerings at our Dedham Campus.
      • Interactive play for cats can be done with wand teaser cat toys, chasing little play mice or balls with bells or make a small investment for automated toys that move if the cat walks past them or interacts with them.

Helpful Videos

“Name Game for Dogs”: incorporate this game into your routine to create a bond and help your new dog respond quickly when you say their name. Watch a demonstration.

“Greeting Exercise”: practice this with family and friends so your dog can learn to greet people and other dogs politely. Learn more.

Week-Old Puppies Sugar Plum and Nutcracker Arrive at ARL Boston

These Fragile Newborns Need Round-The-Clock Care and Support

Newborn sibling puppies, Sugar Plum and Nutcracker, arrived at the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) last week and are in need of urgent, round-the-clock care this holiday season to grow strong and healthy. The American Bulldog and German Shepherd mix pups were part of an unexpected litter, and their mother was unable to care for them. Puppies are extremely vulnerable without their mother and require intensive care.

Week old puppy being held by someone wearing a surgical glove

Sugar Plum during her veterinary exam

The cost for ARL to care for Sugar Plum and Nutcracker over the next few weeks is estimated at about $3,000. With no government funding, the puppies must rely on the public’s generosity to give them their best chance to grow, heal, and one day find loving homes. Your donation will give them everything they need to grow strong and healthy. Please consider making a donation today.

Update: 12/29/25: It is with heavy hearts that we share that despite our best efforts, Sugar Plum and Nutcracker passed away over the weekend. While this is not the outcome we hoped for, they knew warmth, kindness, and care because of you. Every share, donation, and message mattered, and it allowed us to give them comfort and compassion during their time with us.

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.

Arctic Cold Puts Pets at Risk

Reports of Animals Left in the Cold Are on the Rise

As frigid temperatures continue to grip the region, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is urging pet owners to keep animals safe in the extreme cold. ARL has been receiving an increased number of calls from concerned citizens regarding animals being left out in the cold this December.

Here are steps to keep pets safe when temperatures plunge:

  1. Prepare your dog for the cold elements. If your dog has a longer coat, let it grow out for the winter; for shorter coat dogs, sweaters, coats and booties can go a long way to protect your pooch.
  2. Wipe off your dog’s paws and stomach. Chemicals used to treat sidewalks can irritate your dog’s paws, and can be poisonous if ingested. When coming in from the cold, clean and dry your dog’s paws and stomach to keep them healthy!
  3. Keep outdoor trips quick. Bathroom breaks or walks, keep it short and sweet, and keep your pets indoors as much as possible.
  4. Never leave your dog alone in a cold car. Temperatures inside a car will plummet when the engine is turned off. Just like it’s illegal in Massachusetts to leave an animal in a hot car, it’s also illegal to leave an animal in a car during extreme cold. When going out, leave your animals at home.
  5. Pay attention to your pet’s grooming and health. An animal with a matted coat cannot keep him or herself warm! Senior pets also suffer from increased arthritis pain in the cold, so check with your veterinarian on how to keep your pet comfortable.
  6. Check under the hood. Cats love to warm up underneath the hood of a car, as the residual heat from the engine burns off. Always knock on the hood of your vehicle and do a quick visual check before starting the engine.

When the mercury dips, there are laws in place to protect animals, including the prohibition of excessive tethering. According to Massachusetts General Law Ch. 140, Section 174E, Subsection D: A person shall not leave a dog outside when a weather advisory, warning or watch is issued by a local, state or federal authority or when outside environmental conditions including, but not limited to, extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, snow or hail pose an adverse risk to the health or safety of the dog based on the dog’s breed, age or physical condition, unless the tethering is not for more than 15 minutes.

More winter weather pet safety tips.

Thank You for Helping Animals this Giving Tuesday!

1,440+ Animal Lovers Came Together to Raise More Than $400,000

Thanks to the generosity of our incredible community, animals in need are getting the essentials they rely on including food, safe shelter, medical care, compassion, and life-saving rescue when danger strikes.

Special thanks to the donors listed below who made gifts of $100 or more.
Please note, honor wall names are listed in alphabetical order by last name.

Merle Adelman
Robert E. Alan
Cathy L. Albanese
   in memory of Jasmine and Madison
Dylan and Leigh
Ann Alexander
Morah Alexander
Danah Al-Husaini
Elenore J. Alickman
Sylvia A. Allen
Elizabeth N. Allred
Janice Anderson
Katrina Anderson and
Michael Denomy
Slater Anderson
Natalia Andrade
Jacqueline Annino
Michael Arnold
   in memory of Sammy
Paula Attridge
in memory of James J. Doty & Divot
Karalyn R. Auclair
Mary J. Avelino
Sandra Azzalina and
David Querusio
Mary and Robert Bainbridge
Anthony and Lisa Baker
Constance M. Balodimos
Kathryn A. Bard
Stephen and Sarah Barkhuff
Eva S. Barrett
Elizabeth Barry
   in memory of Mack Barry
Emma Baumgartner
and Brian Schwartz
Elizabeth Baxter
Lisa Baxter
Kathleen and
Kevin Beatty
Leslie Becker and
William Loomis
Eric Belson
Brenda A. Bennett
Deborah Benton
Noa Berlin
Robert Berstein and
Sara Mayer
George Best
Cameron Bickel
Harvey Bidwell and
Nancy Binner
James G. Biggar
Phyllis Birnbaum
Jeanne Blanchard
Lisa and Michael Blanck
Doree Blanco
   in memory of Snoop Dogg
Rosalie V. Blum
Zachary Blume
Jonathan Blumenfeld
Taylor Boas
Kathleen Boisvert
William Bonn and Ruben Ceballos
Susan Bosco
   in honor of Dan Clevenger,
   Julie Mackin, and Izzy
Brian Bostak
Cynthia J. Bostwick
Mark Boucher and Dr. Peter Gherardi
Maria Bougioukos
Brian E. Boyle and Polly Marmaduke
Thomas J. Boyle
Loretta and Francis Bradley
Paula Bramwell
Anne L. Brav
Jeffrey Breed
Jason Breen
   in memory of Lucy
Francis M. Brennan
Geraldine Brennan
and Barbara Prato
Melanie Brennan
Robert and Sandy Brennan
Jill L. Bresky
Peter C. Britton
Bruce E. Brolsma
Lawrence A. Brown
Maggie Bruck
Amber Bruski
Pamela S. Bryson
Mary and Shaun Buckley
Katherine Bui
Lynne G. Bumpus
Samantha Burgess
Owen and Robin Burns
Don G. Burstyn
Gail Butler
Edward Cahill and
Kathleen Mooney-Cahill
Cynthia L. Cajka
Patricia Caldwell
Beth Campbell
Janet Campbell
   in memory of Sophie
Karen Campbell
Meredith Campbell
Lynne Canavan
Bonnie Cannon
Cape Cod Classics Car Club
Michael Caplan
   in memory of Nicole Caplan-Mason
Valerie M. Carbone
Alan and Sally Carruth
Kay W. Case
Edward and Gloria Casieri
Judith E. Cassano
Lisa Cassidy
Paul Cavanaugh
Kimberly Chambert
Connie Chan and Mary Jane Treacy
Debby Chaplic
Dennis and Ann Charette
Dr. Pamela A. Chatis
Sampurna Chatterjee
   in honor of Leo
David Chavolla
   in honor of Dr. Christina Newlin
Shirley G. Chicione
Mary E. Chin
Lee and Jane Chirgwin
Leslie Y. Chiu
   in memory of Spenser
Carrie Christopher
Eric Christophersen
Ruth and Timothy Churchill
Jo Anne Clancy
Joyce Clapp
Janet A. Clifford
Victoria Coburn
Nicole Codispoti
   in memory of Jo Freedman
Barrie and Mark Coffin
   in memory of June Morse
Lee A. Coffin
Pamela Coill
Anne Coleman
Virginia F. Coleman
Maura Colling
Commonwealth Cares Fund, Inc.
   in honor of Tejas Borse
Dennis Condon and
Robert Cummings
Ellen Conklin
Kathleen Connelly
Sara A. Connerty
Lisa Connolly
Donna R. Cooper
Lynn Cornelius
Joanne Corrigan
Lidia Cossi
William Costello
John and Mary Cotton
Mary Cotton
Wendy R. Cramer
Keith and Linda Crews
Gordon C. Crighton
Albert Cripps
Sandra Criss
Patricia J. Crow
Joanie Crowell
Helen D. Cuddy
James Cullen
Barbara Cummings
Colleen Cunningham
Laura Curran
Cynthia Curtis
Jean D’Addieco
Gina Dailey and Mark Greeley
Edward P. Dalton
Judith E. Dancik
Susan Daniels
Maria Daversa
Gloria Davies
Judith R. Davis
Susan Davis
Susan G. Davis
Anne de Leon
Sylvia and Robert DeLuca
Jamie L. Demas
Edmund J. Dennehy, Jr.
Alan K. and
Isabelle DerKazarian Foundation
Judith Dermer
Donna DeSantis
Winnie Desprez
Andrea Desrosiers
and Frederic Yarm
   in honor of Boothby and Duffy
Barbara and William DiAngelis
Michael Diener and Barbara Soojian
Francis L. Dilworth, Jr.
Paul and Liz DiMaria
Paul and Karen DiMaura
Tammy Diorio
Sarah Dittemore
Mark Dmohowski
Reva Dolobowsky and Jeff Howe
David Donahue
Kerry C. Donahue
Joseph J. Donnelly
Olga M. Donohue
James and Van Loc Doran
Alexis and Jeff Dorst
Jerome Doucette
Michele and Mark Dougherty
Tom and Alice Dowd
Judeth Drake
Sharon Drewicz
David L. Driscoll
Christine Droney
Claude J. Dubin
Herbert Ducey
   in memory of Sadie
Nicole and Shawn Duhamel
Dianne Durso
Chris Ecklund Groundwater
William R. Eddows
Joan Eldridge
Kurt and Judith Erensoy
Heidi Erlacher and Christine Donahue
   in memory of Ozzy Erlahue
Christine G. Espino
Peter Evans
Patti Faff and Skye
Arleen Fallon
Mary K. Fallon
Sandra Farrow
Cynthia Fawcett and Joseph Webb
Ashley Fawkes Rogers
and Charlie Rogers
Sarah Feldman
   in memory of Atreides
Marsha Ferrara
Mason Fields
David Fike
Alisa Fine
   in honor of Ruby Queen
Sandra A. Fischer
Elizabeth Fisher
Frances Fisher
Janet Fisher
Sheila M. Fitzgerald
Maggie Flatley
Emily Flax
Judith Florell
   in honor of Ari Resnick
   and Vera Schroeder Resnick
Malcolm Flynn
Kimberly Fontes
Mark and Priscilla Ford
Michael T. Ford
Joseph Forjan
Dr. Lisa R. Fortuna
Andrea and Steven Frank
Alice S. Freedman
Peter and Georgina Friedenberg
Lara Fury
Kathleen Gabriel
Mila Gaddy
Theresa Gaglio Tripp
   in memory of Ollie
Hanna Gao
   in honor of Luigi Mario
Alan V. Garofalo
Margaret Gavenonis and
Robert Raco
Donna G. Gay
Amanda Geaney
Dr. Pamela D. Gerardi
Chris Gervais
Leslie Ghorbani
   in honor of Cameron and
Grace Ghorbani and Rachael Ghorbani
Kim Giampietro
John and Mary Gier
Lisa Gigliotti
Dorothy A. Gillis
Pamela Girardi
Louise M. Gladyszak
Lisa Glover and James Leitch
Jennifer and Joseph Godlewski
David Goldenheim
Dianne B. Gollrad
   in memory of Cleo
Cathleen Gonzales
Steven C. Goodwin
Diane Gorrow
Milena Gostanian
   in memory of Lucy in the Sky
   with Diamonds
Sally and Don Gould
Richard and Barbara Grady
Deborah Gray
Carmine A. Greco
Eric Green
   in memory of Anne Marie Sawchak
Anne M. Grenier
Carol A. Griffin
Axel Grippo
Kenyon B. Grogan
Anne Gross
Dr. Yvette S. Groszmann
   in memory of Gaucho
   and Dad
Joseph and Margaret Guiod
Atul Gupta
Howard Guthermann
Mary Jo Haggerty
Eugene and Teresa Haley
Donna and Michael Hall
Kevin and Elaine Hallisey
Mary Happ and James Hinds
Sharon Hargraves
Cynthia A. Harper
Richard Harrison
Nancy M. Hausman
Marilyn Hayes
Janis Heffel
Ronald Heinricksen
and Henry Anderson
Eric Hemmert and Keith Bisset
   in memory of Barney and Lucy
Helen R. Henderson
Winifred Hentschel
Bryan Hercules
Geraldine Herr
Rachel Herschenfeld
David and Elizabeth Hettrich
Elaine Hill
Deborah Hills
William E. Hohenberger
Lisa Holt and Michael Brown
Mary E. Hooker
Nancy and Charles Hovey
Andrea J. Howley
Fredericka Huber
Jamilyn Hughes and Joseph Yanchik
Elisabeth D. Hulihan
Brian Hyde and Joe Fiorello
Morton S. Isaacson
Saki Iwamoto
Mary Jackson
Jeannine L. Jarvis
Emilie Javorsky
Neal Johnson
Virginia Johnson
and John Mara
Joseph and Julia Miglin
Charitable Scholarship Trust
Heather and James Joyal
John and Alison Kaar
David and Gail Kahn
Elfreda Kallock
William and Susan Kams
Billie J. Kanavich
Charles F. Kane, Jr.
and Heidi Huttom
Brian and Beth Kaplan
Charles and Phyllis Kaplan
Ellen K. Kaplan
Julianne Kaputa
Leslie and Richard Kates
Vicki and Jeffrey Kaufman
Linda M. Kaufmann
Bridget Keane
Gaston Kelly
Mary Kelly and Robert Lexander
Meg Kenny and Dave Deschamps
Bo Kim
Andrew Kindman
Lelia King and Adam Howes
Joan M. Kirchner
Elizabeth C. Kirk
Susan Kline
Jaclynn Knecht
James T. Knowles
Grace Geller and Zachary Koenig
Susan and Joe Koors
Ellen and Jonathan Korb
Helen and Richard Kosinski
Virginia A. Kosmo
Christina Kowalewski
Christine Kromer
Maria T. Kuntz
Susan Kurtzman
and Lila Coddington
Lanny Kutakoff
   in honor of Lisa Lagos
   and Alicia Muller

Karen A. LaFrance
Anne Lambert
Shirley A. LaMotte
Maureen Lane
Sharman Lappin
Brond Larson
   in memory of Willow
Kathleen Larson
Pam Larson
Richard and Laura Lavoie
Margaret E. Law
Judith LeBlanc
Elizabeth A. LeBoeuf
Jonathan R. Leehey
Carol A. Legere
Karen J. Leggett
Jeffrey and Sally Leinicke
Donna Lennon
   in memory of Cleo
Joanne Lerette
Walter and Irene Lesniaski
Terri Levin
Jan Levinson
Scott Lewis
Ruiting Lin
   in memory of Pepper and Pam
Anne R. Lindsay
and Dr. David J. Schwarz
Lauren Lineback
   and Allen Joseph Cavicchi
   in memory of Linda A. Lineback
Robert Lingeman and Jane Howe
Anne-Marie and Bill Litchfield
Lydia Liu
Deborah L. Loesel
James and Maureen Loible
Susan M. Lombardi
   in honor of Deb Cobb
   and Mike Kyslowsky
Laurie Lovett
Daniel Lowe
Susan Luckfield
   in honor of Whitney Tropeano
Kevin and Maryellen Luttrell
Karen Lynch and Richard Madden
Robin M. Lynch Nardone
   in memory of Bruin
Sarah Lyons
Gerald MacDonald
Lev Macht-Greenberg
Monique and John MacLellan
Barbara Magarie
Erica Magnus and Jane Margesson
   in honor of Ruka
Ari Magnusson
Martha Mahoney
Joseph and Penny Majike
Clare P. Malone
Marie Manis
Neal G. Manning
Elaine Marchand and Paul Murphy
Jennifer Marchand
   in memory of Zoe
Patricia and Steven Margles
Christine Marholin
Gail Marlowe
Marc P. Marsan
Carolyn Martin
Gilbert Martin
Donna Rae Martinez
Susan M. Masterson
Barbara Matteson
in honor of Anne-Marie Litchfield
Rosemary H. Matthews
Deborah N. Mauger
   in memory of Odie and Muttley
Doreen A. Mayhew
Debra and Michael McAleer
   in honor of Emily Rossetti-McAleer
Andrea and Read McCaffrey
Brian T. McCarthy
Elena and Paul McClanahan
James and Nancy McConnell
Margo McCool and David Widing
Natalie McCormick in honor of Basil
Malcolm McDonald and Susan Passoni
Mike McElroy
Karen and Warren McFarlan
Cassandra McGowen
   in memory of Maya Lee Kaul
Tom McIntyre
   in memory of Hazle, Ciena,
   Lucent & Qwestie
Bryan McNamara
   in honor of the
   Sun Life Local Giving Committee
David and Lori McWeeney
Julie M. Mead
Gay L. Meixel
Marie K. Melaragni
Karen S. Melican
   in memory of Melissa Thorndike
Kathleen Melkey
Samantha Menapace
Elisabeth Merchant and Gerard Cedrone
Charles and Rosemary Michaud
Lauren Mifflin
Andrew and Marilyn Mikita
Elinor Milder
   in memory of Jacoby
Lily Miller
Brian Milligan
James J. Milton
Annette and Richard Miner
Evelyn Minis and Nick Ratti
William Miniscalco
Marjorie S. Minkoff
Richard Minutillo
Carmel Mitchell
Bert and Julie Molinari
Katherine Moloney
   in honor of Sophia
Brooke Moncrieff
Dr. Margaret E. Monsell
Julie Moore
Danyel Moosmann
Mary Moosmann
Janice Moquin
Janet E. Morehouse
Mark Morelli
Nancy S. Moren
Angela L. Morencey
Elaine M. Moriarty
Elizabeth Moroney
Carolyn S. Morrill
Julie Morrison
Harriet Moss and Paul Rosenberg
Linda Moulton
Cathy and Alvaro Moura
Justine and James Mullen
Theresa Murch
Jane A. Murray
Peter and Kathryn Muse
Danielle Myers
Dwight and Martha Myers
Kristine P. Nagle
Suzanne E. Nagle
Christopher and Julie Nahil
Randall and Linda Nash
Kathleen and Ralph Needleman
Lisa Neubauer-Wong and
Robert Wong in memory of Rudy
Janis and David Newcomb
Cristin Newkirk
Elizabeth Nicholson
Karen Nicholson in honor of Zac
Raymond Nomizu
Maxine D. Oborsky
Audrey O’Connell
   in memory of Mickie and Cisco
Patricia and Gene O’Flaherty
Joan O’Handley
Barbara Ohanian
   in memory of Molly
Margaret O’Hearn
Sherry Oliver
Jeffrey A. Olsen
Maria O’Malley in memory of Copper
Theodore Oparowski and Mariya Greeley
   in memory of Bruno Macarelli
Moira Orr-Mullane
Anna Oskarsdottir
Karen O’Toole and Robert Reetz
Deborah F. Owen
Kristin M. Palmer
Jennifer Chow and John Papandrea
Linda M. Paquette
Kieran Parikh
Faith and Arnold Paul
Paws & Whiskers Pet Supply and Bakery
Roberta Peach
Gustavo Pena and Kerry Weiss-Pena
   in memory of Wally and Cordie Weiss
Edward and Maria Penberthy
Hilary Penizotto
Virginia Pepe
Linda and Winfield Perry
Melissa Perry
Robin Perry
Slocumb Perry
Phyllis Petro in memory of Eric Petro
Dorothy A. Phillips
Susan Phillips-Gray
   in memory of Howard Gray and Lily
Eileen Pironti
Benjamin Pomicter
Alexandra B. Porter
Roderick and Julia Powell
Elizabeth and Robert Pozen
Thomas and Arlene Pregman
Jennifer Querbes
Chris Quincy
Jeanette Quinlan
R. Elna Rapp
Rebecca Rastogi
   in memory of Eric Petro
Molly Reagan
   in honor of Maddie & Quinn
Barb and Phil Reed
Mary Regan
Trish Regan and Dan Cibotti
Michael Reily
Mary M. Remien
Lauren Repp
Michael and Joan Reynolds
Jody W. Rice-Hines
Patricia Richards
   in honor of Taffy and
   Zoe Richards
Lindsey Richardson
Nancy E. Ridill
Jill Riker
Debra Robbins
Peter and Beverley Robbins
Roger Robinson
Dr. Kenneth Rock and
Carol Glauberman-Rock
Suzanne Rodday
Darlene Rogers
James and Patricia Rohan
Barbara A. Romano
   in memory of Hannah,
   Emmyou and Eddie
Judith Rosen and Chuck Dresner
Alanna and Jasper Rosenberg
   in memory of
   Penny Rosenberg
Amy Rosenfeld and Lisa Walsh
Dorothy Ross and Blake Cady
Martina and John Roth
Rosanne and Christopher Roth
Ina Rothenbuecher
Paul Roycraft
Carol A. Rubel
Martha Rullman
Ralph and Deborah Ryall
Conor Ryan
Rosetta and Daniel Sabbag
Olivia Sacks
John P. Salerno
Marilyn W. Santoro
John and Janice Sarno
Dacey Sartor
Shirley Saunders
The Savastano Family
Susan Savoy
Barbara A. Sawtelle
Michael Schell and
Kathleen O’Connor Schell
Michael Schlafman
   in memory of Lobster
Peter and Cynthia Schliemann
Connie J. Schlotterbeck
Malisa and Andrew Schuyler
Terry L. Scribner
Patricia Scully
Priscilla Seaward
Nancy L. Sencabaugh
Brian Sharkey
Jennifer and Michael Shea
Jennifer Shea
Paula Shea
Helen L. Sicotte
Adam Silverleib
Cassie Silverman
Mary Simard
Michael A. Simpson
Susanne B. Simpson
Nancy A. Skowyra
James and Saundra Slater
Eugene Slaven
William and Katherine Slocum
   in honor of Kelly Slocum
   Lancaster & Family
Jeanne Smallcomb
Nancy and Ted Smethurst
Arthur Smith
Donald W. Smith
Emma Smith
Robin G. Smith
   in memory of Marble and Phoebe
Sean and Jeanne Smith
Dan and Ros Smythe
Melanie Spector
   in memory of Boris, the best boy
Joyce Spencer and Ginny Adams
Patricia and Peter Spencer
Sarah and Michael Stanlick Kimball
Antoniya T. Statelova
Deborah Steven
Patricia Stiles
Dorothy Strauss
Karla Streett
Barbara P. Strickland
Megan Subsick
   in honor of Alex
   and Shelby Subsick
Liz Sullivan
Patricia Sutherland
   in honor of Karen O’Sullivan
Emily Swanson
Martha Taft
Rudolph and Dora Tanzi
Bethany Tarpley
Stephanie Tatum
Patricia N. Taylor
Bruce and Sarah Taymore
Leah Tedesco
Edward C. Thaute
Merna A. Therieau
Roberta D. Thomae
Alexandra Thomas
Shelly L. Thomas
Amy J. Thompson
Timothy D. Thornton
   in honor of Kelly and Abbey
Matthew Tirrell
Hian-Thai Tjen
Susan Tocio
   in honor of Alex “Papa” Doka
Elizabeth C. Toftner
Diane Torres
Karen Tosh
   in honor of Whitney Tropeano
MaryEllen Travassos
Cheryl Traversi
Barbara A. Trocchi
Richard and Stephanie Trowel
Debrah A. True
J. Barry Tubman
Deborah L. Tumber
Darlene S. Turcotte
Maureen Turner
Elizabeth Turnock
Andreas Uehlin
Robert Van Sickle
Raimund and Anne Vanderweil
Margaret and Dennis Vargo
Karen B. Vaters
Ava Vatsky
Charles Veith
Victor C. Velez
Normand Viens and
Linda Govone
Wascar Villalona
Dorothy A. Vitagliano
John and Bess Vyhnanek
Donna L. Wade
   in honor of the Wade Family
Edward J. Walker
Pamela W. Ward
Deirdre Wassell
Michael and Susan Weber
Susan F. Weinz
Jane Weir
Dianne Wesselhoeft
Bonnie and Donald Westfall
R. Bruce and Susan Wheltle
Dr. Priscilla L. White
Sarah M. White
Mary Ellen Whitehead
Donna M. Whiting
Amy and William Whitsett
Janet C. Wigren
Gerrie Wilson
Mary L. Wlodyka
Andrea H. Woods
Jennifer Worhach
Amelia Wren
Valerie Wriede
Carol Ayres Wright
Curtis and Linda Wright
Kelly Wright
   in honor of Simon & Salem
Alicia and Jeremy Yamin
Maureen C. Yauckoes
Barbara and William Young
Patricia L. Young
Robert Young and
Michelle Apuzzio
Lixi Yu
Susan Yurkus
Antonia F. Zaccaria
James and Janice Zafarana
Gianluca Zampini
Marianna Zanni
Michael and Mily Zanni
   in honor of Zara
Roberta and Richard Zonghi

Looking for even more ways to make a difference for animals? Explore our Ways to Help page to see how you can get involved.

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.

You Can Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

Build a Happier, Healthier Life With Your Dog Through Training

Training your dog is one of the best investments you can make in their happiness and well-being. A well-trained dog is more confident, less stressed, and better equipped to handle new situations. Whether you’re starting with a playful puppy or helping an older dog sharpen their skills, consistency and patience are key. Training is also an incredible bonding experience for you and your pet!

When it comes to your canine companion, few things are more important than training. Whether they are a puppy or a senior, our pets are consistently learning and can always work on their manners.

5 Essential Dog Training Tips

  1. Enroll in a class. From puppy kindergarten to advanced agility courses, there are classes available for every age and ability.
  2. Focus on the positives. Reward your pet with praise and high-value treats for responding to a command correctly. Consistent positive reinforcement makes it more likely for your dog to repeat the behavior.
  3. Keep it short. Limit at-home sessions to 15 minutes, up to 3 times per day, to keep your pup’s attention span.
  4. Commit to a schedule. Our pets thrive when they have a structured routine and repetition is critical to reinforce your pet’s new skills.
  5. Teach an old dog new tricks. If your dog has a firm grasp on the basics, introduce new commands for them to work on.

Enroll in an ARL Dog Training Course

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) offers a range of classes at our Dedham campus, led by certified trainers. Our programs teach commands, build trust, and strengthen your bond with your dog. From basic manners to agility, there’s a class for every pup! Explore courses and register today.