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November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month: Celebrate the Love of Older Companions

This Adopt a Senior Pet Month, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is celebrating the special bond senior pets share with their families and shining a spotlight on older animals waiting for a new chapter of their own.

Puppies and kittens often capture the attention of potential adopters, but senior pets have just as much love, personality, and joy to offer. With years of experience behind them, older animals have a way of finding a special place into our hearts.

At ARL, we believe every animal should have the chance to be loved and cared for, regardless of age.

Age is Just a Number!

Senior pets may have a few gray hairs and move a little slower, but their hearts are just as full. Adopting an older animal comes with real advantages. Many already know the rhythms of a household and need less training than younger animals. Others are content with a slower pace, which makes them ideal for adopters who want an easygoing companion.

Of course, every animal is different, and age alone doesn’t determine personality or energy level. Some senior pets still love to play, while others are happiest enjoying the quiet moments.

For an older animal who has lost a familiar home, a new family offers more than a fresh start. It’s a chance to feel safe, loved, and cherished once again.

Meet Some of ARL’s Senior Pets

ARL currently has several senior animals hoping to find their perfect match. These deserving pets are a wonderful reminder that age should never define an animal’s ability to bring happiness into someone’s life.

Whiskey – 14 Years Old

A black and white cat with green eye, lying down.

Whiskey

Whiskey is a sweet, 14-year-old cat who shared a special bond with her previous owner for seven years. Sadly, after losing her beloved companion, Whiskey is hoping to find someone new to share that same connection with.

Though a little shy at first, Whiskey has a playful and affectionate side. She knows her name, comes when called, and loves chasing little balls, which she’ll even retrieve for you. Whiskey would thrive in a quiet home without young children or other pets, where she can settle in at her own pace and form a special bond with her new person.

Berks – 15 Years Old

A multi-colored cat receiving head scratches from someone wearing a red coat

Berks

At 15 years young, Berks is a gentle, easygoing sweetheart who doesn’t ask for much – just some tasty meals, a cozy lap to curl up in, and a sunny spot to relax.

With plenty of love still to give, Berks is hoping to find a special someone to share her golden years with.

Adoption availability is subject to change. Click each animal’s name to view their adoption profile.

Senior Pets Deserve Love Year-Round

Adopt a Senior Pet Month is a great reason to celebrate older animals, but ARL encourages adopters to consider them all year long.

Whether you want a laid-back companion, an affectionate feline friend, or a dog to share your daily walks with, your perfect match may be an older animal waiting for someone to give them a chance.

Thinking About Adding a New Companion to Your Family?

Visit one of ARL’s Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Dedham, or Brewster, or browse our adoptable animals online.

A Round of A-paws for our 2026 Paws to Celebrate Sponsors!

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) celebrated its 8th annual Paws to Celebrate event series, bringing together animal advocates, supporters, and community members to honor the animals and people who make ARL’s lifesaving work possible.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and supporters, this year’s events in Chatham, Truro, Boston, and Dedham achieved record-breaking fundraising success! These celebrations not only highlighted the impact of ARL’s work across Massachusetts but also demonstrated the power of a community coming together to help animals in need.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following businesses and individuals for their generous support and for helping make this year’s Paws to Celebrate events such a tremendous success:

 

PLATINUM PAWPRINT

sponsor logos and names featuring Gabby Hanna, Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty, Sean Murray, Michael Samuelian & James, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

 

LEADER OF THE PACK

Herb Chambers logo

BEST IN SHOW

A collage of sponsor lgoos and donor names, including Edward Jones and Quirk, on a white background

TOP DOG
Cape Cod Dog Squad
Chatham Bars Inn
Eastern Bank Foundation
Gourmet Caterers
Grossman Marketing Group
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
José Rodriguez-Villalobos & Christopher Lapan
Schneeberger Collective
Truro News, Inc.
XV Beacon

 

TOP CAT
A. Mikita Plumbing & Heating
AAFCPAs
Andersen
The Boatslip
Changing Tides Consignment Boutique
Cove Road Real Estate
Dedham Savings
First Citizens Bank
HarbourVest
Hinckley Home Center
Walter & Lee Kenyon
Helen Kosinski
Paws & Whiskers
Rapid7
Walpole Co-operative Bank

 

ANIMAL ADVOCATE
A. Mikita Plumbing & Heating
AAFCPAs
Andersen
The Boatslip
Changing Tides Consignment Boutique
Cove Road Real Estate
Dedham Savings
First Citizens Bank
HarbourVest
Hinckley Home Center
Walter & Lee Kenyon
Helen Kosinski
Paws & Whiskers
Rapid7
Walpole Co-operative Bank

 

Meet Kevin: A Special Needs Kitten Who Isn’t Letting His Condition Slow Him Down

12-week-old kitten with cerebellar hypoplasia is full of energy, personality, and love

Meet Kevin! This adorable, energetic 12-week-old kitten is currently in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), and while he may move a little differently than other cats, he isn’t letting that stop him from enjoying life to the fullest!

Kevin has a neurological condition known as cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), sometimes referred to as “wobbly cat syndrome,” which affects his coordination and balance. Despite his challenges, Kevin is a playful, affectionate kitten with plenty of personality, and he’s looking for a special family to call his own.

What Is Cerebellar Hypoplasia?

Cerebellar hypoplasia is a neurological condition that occurs when the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance, does not fully develop. CH can range from mild to severe, with symptoms including unsteady walking, swaying, head tremors, and difficulty coordinating movements.

The good news? CH is not painful, is not contagious, and does not progressively worsen. With the right care and environment, cats with CH can live happy, fulfilling lives.

Kevin has a moderate form of CH, meaning he experiences noticeable uncoordinated movements, swaying, and head tremors. While these symptoms make everyday activities a little more challenging, they certainly have not dampened his playful spirit.

Helping Kevin Navigate His World

Because Kevin has difficulty with balance and coordination, he will need a home that can accommodate his unique needs and keep him safe.

A few simple adjustments can help Kevin feel safe and comfortable in his new home. These include:

  • Providing soft, non-slip surfaces
  • Limiting access to stairs
  • Using elevated food and water bowls
  • Offering an easy-to-access litter box
  • Keeping his nails trimmed to help him move around more comfortably

While Kevin may need extra accommodation, these adjustments will help him safely explore, play, and enjoy everything kittenhood has to offer.

A Playful Kitten with a Big Personality

Currently thriving in an ARL foster home, Kevin shares his space with a dog, another cat, and a child, and he happily plays with all three.

A curious gray-and-white tabby kitten being held by someone smiling, wearing a red sweatshirt.

Adopting an animal with special needs can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and Kevin is proof that a little extra care can go a long way.

Like many kittens his age, Kevin has plenty of energy and is still learning appropriate manners. His ideal home would include another playful animal companion who can help him learn boundaries while keeping him entertained.

His foster experience has shown that despite his physical challenges, Kevin is eager to interact, play and be a part of a family.

Could You Be Kevin’s Perfect Match?

Kevin is looking for a patient, understanding adopter who is willing to make some adjustments to help him thrive. In return, his new family will gain a fun-loving companion with an incredible zest for life.

Kevin has been examined by ARL’s veterinary team, and is up to date on vaccinations, neutered, and microchipped.

Adopting an animal with special needs can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and Kevin is proof that a little extra care can go a long way.

Learn more about ARL’s adoption process and take the first step toward welcoming this special kitten into your home and heart.

Learn More About Cerebellar Hypoplasia

For those considering adopting a cat with CH, the following resources provide helpful information about the condition and how to create a safe, supportive home for your pet:

    Beyond the Superstitions: Celebrate Black Cats on National Black Cat Day

    Black cats are often associated with superstitions, but at the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), we know there’s nothing scary about these lovable felines!

    Celebrated annually on October 27, National Black Cat Day is an opportunity to challenge common misconceptions, celebrate these beautiful animals, and encourage people to consider opening their hearts and homes to a black cat in need.

    Breaking the Black Cat Superstitions

    For centuries, black cats have been surrounded by myths and legends. While some cultures have associated them with bad luck, others consider them symbols of good fortune, prosperity, and protection.

    But there’s nothing mysterious about what makes black cats wonderful companions. Just like cats of any other color, each has a unique personality, and when it comes to finding the perfect feline companion, it’s what’s on the inside that counts!

    Finding Your Purr-fect Match

    Whether you’re looking for an energetic playmate, a laid-back companion who loves to curl up beside you, or a little bit of both, ARL has cats of all ages and personalities waiting to find loving homes.

    A sleek black cat with bright golden eyes stands in a wooden cat kennel, gazing curiously at the camera.

    Cats like Nate are waiting for their special someone across ARL’s three Animal Care & Adoption Centers.

    Adopting a cat is about finding the right match for your home and lifestyle, and ARL’s dedicated staff are here to help you every step of the way.

    This National Black Cat Day, consider giving one of these special felines a chance to become part of your family.

    Learn more about our adoptable cats or stop by one of our Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Dedham, or Cape Cod (Brewster) during open adoption hours.

    Four Stray Puppies Rescued on Cape Cod Now in Care of Animal Rescue League of Boston

    Community members and animal control officers worked together to bring the puppies to safety

    Four mixed-breed puppies are now in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) after being found wandering along Route 149 in Centerville, MA.

    The puppies, affectionately named Wilma, Betty, Pebbles, and Dino, were spotted roaming the area, prompting an incredible community effort to bring them to safety. According to reports, an entire neighborhood came together to ensure they were safely rescued.

    Following their rescue, the four puppies were placed in the care of Barnstable Animal Control, where they completed their required stray hold before being transferred to ARL’s Brewster Animal Care & Adoption Center.

    Since arriving at ARL, the puppies have been receiving love and care from staff as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. Three of the puppies are now available for adoption, while one lucky puppy has already found a loving home with an ARL staff member!

    Two photos of an alert brown-and-black puppy: first standing among other puppies on a speckled floor, then posing on a gray blanket, looking curious and sweet.

    The puppies, affectionately named Wilma, Betty, Pebbles, and Dino, were spotted roaming along Route 149 in Centerville, MA.

    What began as an uncertain journey for these four puppies has turned into a heartwarming story of community compassion and second chances.

    ARL is grateful to the neighbors and Barnstable Animal Control who came together to bring the puppies to safety, ensuring the animals receive the care they needed. Their efforts are a reminder of the important communities play in helping animals in need.

    Be Part of Their Next Chapter

    Three of the puppies are still waiting to find their families, and you could be the one to give them their home!

    Interested in welcoming a new companion into your home? Explore animals currently available for adoption.

    7-Week-Old Kitten Rescued from I-93 Now in Care of Animal Rescue League of Boston

    The kitten, now named “Freeway” is in foster care after being rescued from a busy highway

    A tiny kitten is getting a second chance thanks to the quick actions of a good Samaritan who spotted her dodging traffic on a busy Massachusetts highway.

    The 7-week-old kitten was found on I-93 in Woburn last week, narrowly avoiding passing vehicles. Fortunately, a good Samaritan was able to safely rescue the kitten from the dangerous situation and get her out of harm’s way.

    Now named Freeway by staff at the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), the kitten is safe and settling into life in the care of an ARL foster caregiver.

    A fluffy dark kitten curls its front paws beneath its chin, staring wide-eyed at the camera with a tiny pink tongue showing; playful, cozy mood.

    Safe and sound! Freeway, is getting a second chance at life after a harrowing rescue from I-93 in Woburn.

    Despite her frightening start, Freeway now has a bright future ahead of her. She will remain in foster care until she is ready to find a loving home of her own.

    What to Do if You See an Animal in Danger

    Freeway’s story is an important reminder that animals can find themselves in dangerous and unexpected situations.

    If you encounter an animal on a busy roadway or in another potentially dangerous situation, prioritize your own safety and avoid putting yourself or others at risk. Contact local animal control or law enforcement for assistance. For animals on Massachusetts highways, call 911 to alert authorities of the situation.

    The Importance of Foster Care

    Fosters play a vital role in ARL’s mission, providing animals like Freeway with a safe, nurturing environment while they prepare for adoption.

    Whether caring for young kittens, animals recovering from medical procedures, or pets who need a break from the shelter environment, fosters caregivers help ensure animals receive the individualized attention and care they need to thrive.

    By opening their homes to animals in need, fosters also help ARL expand its capacity to care for even more animals.

    Interested in welcoming an animal in need into your home? Learn more about becoming an ARL foster caregiver.

    Give an Animal a Second Chance

    While Freeway is not yet available for adoption, ARL has many other cats, dogs, and small animals of all ages, breeds, and personalities waiting for loving homes.

    Meet available animals and learn more about the adoption process.

    5 Facts About Pit Bull-type Dogs

    As part of National Pit Bull Awareness Month, we wanted to share some important information about Pit Bulls, a “breed” that often gets a bad rap. Unfortunately, Pit Bull-type dogs often come to our Animal Care & Adoption Centers because their owners face housing and insurance restrictions prohibiting certain breeds of dogs.

    Here are 5 facts that you need to know about Pit Bull-type dogs:

    1. FACT: The “Pit Bull” is not an official breed.
    “Pit Bull” is an umbrella term commonly reported to contain the following 3 registered breeds of dogs: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Pit Bull Terrier.

    Many dogs that are classified as “pit bulls” are actually a combination of mixed breed dogs of unknown pedigree or other purebred dogs which bear some physical resemblance. It is not easy to identify a dog’s breed origin(s) from appearance alone, therefore many dogs who are labeled as Pit Bull-type dogs are actually not.

    2. FACT: While some Pit Bull-type dogs were historically bred for the purposes of “blood sports”, the majority were bred to become family dogs and farm help.
    In the 1970s, dog “blood sports” (i.e., dogfighting, street fighting) began to get more attention by law enforcement and, therefore, the media—making the public much more aware of these cruel practices. The hype drew people to the conclusion that the Pit Bull-type dog’s history of involvement in “blood sports” made them uniquely dangerous.

    The truth is that one cannot predict a dog’s behavior based on what the ancestral breed was “historically bred for.”  Instead, each dog should be assessed as a unique individual based upon their overall temperament and upbringing.

    3. FACT: Pit Bull-type dogs are not born aggressive
    Ever heard the phrase “nature vs. nurture”? Well, that applies here too. Pit Bull-type dogs, just like any other type, follow “learned” behavior taught by the humans who raise them.

    To put it simply: an attentive caring owner will raise a happy well-adjusted pet. A neglectful and abusive owner will raise an unhappy aggressive pet. More often than not, Pit Bull-type dogs who display aggressive behavior are often the victims of irresponsible ownership.

    4. FACT: Pit Bull type dogs do not have “locking jaws”
    No such “locking jaw” mechanism exists in a Pit Bull-type dog or any other dog type or breed. There is nothing uncommon about the size and functionality of a Pit Bull-type dog’s jaws or teeth. Additionally, there is no evidence which proves that one dog type or breed is uniquely capable of inflicting serious injury to humans or other animals.

    5. FACT: You should consider adopting a Pit Bull-type dog from your local shelter
    If you’re looking to add a new furry family member to your household, think about saving a life and adopting. When a Pit Bull-type dog is properly matched to your family and lifestyle, it is a success story in the making. Pit Bull-type dogs are loyal companions, quick learners, and make great exercise buddies.

    If you are considering adopting, make sure you visit a shelter that offers behavioral assessments and enrichment programs for all adoptable animals.  At the ARL, for example, staff can that provide insight into a dog’s overall temperament, health, and upbringing. It is always a good idea to bring everyone in the household (including other dogs) to the shelter with you to ensure that your new addition is the right fit for your home and family.

    If you’re looking to add a Pit Bull-type dog or another type of pet to your family, visit our adoptable pets at our Animal Care & Adoption Centers. 

    How to Prepare Your Pet for a Fright-Free Halloween

    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 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.

    The Animal Rescue League of Boston Receives $4,000 Grant from Copeland Subaru Hyannis and the ASPCA® as part of the Subaru Loves Pets® Campaign

    The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) has been awarded a $4,000 grant from Copeland Subaru Hyannis to help cover essential costs associated with preparing animals for adoption, including veterinary expenses and other needs this October.

    The funding was administered by the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), as part of Subaru Loves Pets®, a national Subaru initiative dedicated to improving the lives of shelter animals.

    Subaru Loves Pets® Adoption Event

    Copeland Subaru Hyannis and ARL are teaming up to host a special adoption event on Saturday,
    October 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Copeland Subaru Hyannis, located at 95 Falmouth
    Road in Hyannis, MA.

    Animals from ARL’s Brewster Animal Care & Adoption Center will be available for adoption, giving attendees the opportunity to meet pets looking for loving homes. There will also be treats for both humans and pets.

    A cheerful black-and-tan dog lies on a tiled floor with a tennis ball in its mouth, wearing an orange “Subaru Loves Pets” bandana.

    Lyla, an ARL dog at a previous Subaru Loves Pets Adoption event

    “We are incredibly grateful to Copeland Subaru Hyannis and the ASPCA for their continued commitment to helping animals in need,” said Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

    “This generous support helps us provide essential care to animals as they prepare for adoption, and we look forward to working together to connect more pets with loving families through the Subaru Loves Pets adoption event.”

    Since 2008, Subaru has donated more than $70 million to national and local organizations supporting the adoption, rescue, transport and health of more than 900,000 animals.

    Interested in finding your new best friend?

    Learn more about the Subaru Loves Pets adoption event, or explore ARL’s adoptable animals.

    Supporter Spotlight: Claire Bradford

    When Claire Bradford decided to become a foster caregiver, it felt like a natural next step in a lifelong connection to animals.

    Growing up, her family shared their home with a feisty toy poodle named Sampson, who taught her about boundaries, and a free-spirited cat named Basil, who lived to be 21 years old!

    During the COVID pandemic, Claire found herself at home more, and turned to fostering. Her first foster was Clementine, a 10-year old, 75 lb. mixed-breed dog with a slew of health challenges. After a long and difficult journey to get her healthy, the two formed a bond that Claire couldn’t deny. “She was my heart dog”.

    Claire adopted Clementine, and the two of them shared the next three years together. When Claire lost Clementine in November of 2023, the silence in her home was profound.

    Just a few weeks later, she began fostering with ARL. She knew she wasn’t ready to adopt, but she also knew she had a lot of love to give. Her first foster with ARL was a dog named Blanco, who was emaciated, but full of spirit. “He had every reason not to trust people” Claire recalls, “but he was still so happy.” Watching him decompress and eventually find a home reaffirmed her passion for fostering.

    For Claire, fostering is more than providing a temporary home, it’s about understanding an animal in a way that sets them up for long-term success in an adoptive home. From learning their routines to recognizing their anxieties, Claire gathers insights that help ARL to make better matches for the animals.

    During one of her volunteer shifts, Claire met Grizz, a young pup who was surrendered due to his owner’s declining health. When she took him out for a walk, something clicked, and the two of them connected. Shortly after their first walk together, Claire adopted him. Soon after bringing him home, Grizz became seriously ill, and ended up requiring intensive care. This experience gave Claire a new level of empathy for adopters navigating unexpected challenges, and a deeper appreciation for the work required to truly support an animal.

    Claire’s dog Grizz (left) with his friend Phoebe. Photo by A Dog’s Narrative Photography.

    Fostering has also connected Claire to a broader community in unexpected ways. While out on a walk with one of her foster dogs, she was stopped by another ARL volunteer who recognized the pup by name. The two struck up a conversation, and soon began walking dogs together during their shifts. What started as a shared commitment to animals quickly turned into a friendship. One of the many unexpected gifts of saying yes to fostering!

    And for those who worry they could never give a foster back, Claire offers this perspective:

    “I’d rather my heart breaks than theirs”, recognizing that it can be extremely difficult to say goodbye, but by doing so, you are giving that animal the chance to find their person, and then you get to help more do the same.

    We are so grateful to Claire for her selfless dedication to animals in need!

    Photos by A Dog’s Narrative Photography