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How to Prepare Your Pet for Spooky Season

In Massachusetts, Halloween means busy city streets filled with trick-or-treaters, neighborhood block parties, and plenty of creative costumes. While it’s a fun and spirited time for people, the holiday can be overwhelming—or even dangerous—for pets. With a little planning, you can help your four-legged family members stay safe and comfortable while you enjoy the festivities.

4 Tips to Protect Your Pets This Halloween:

  1. Keep candy and chocolate out of reach. The bowl of candy that we make easily accessible for tiny trick-or-treaters is also at paws-length for our pets. Even small amounts of chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free candy), and caffeine is toxic to dogs and cats and can cause seizures, liver failure, and even death. If you suspect your pet has eaten something dangerous, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away.
  2. Be careful with decorations. If your goal is to create the perfect spooky ambiance for all the Halloween festivities, keep in mind that many decorations are not pet-friendly. Faux spider webs, glow sticks, and plastic toys can be harmful if swallowed. Lit candles or jack-o-lanterns can be knocked over by curious pets, leading to burns or even fires.
  3. Create a calm space. The doorbell constantly ringing, a flurry of strangers in costumes, and loud noises can overwhelm pets- especially those who are typically skittish or anxious. Set you cat or dog up in a quiet room with their favorite toys and a TV or white noise to help ease their stress.
  4. Check your pet’s ID. With doors opening and closing all night, there’s a risk of pets slipping outside. Make sure their ID tags and microchip information are up to date so you can be reunited quickly if they get lost.

Halloween can be a wonderful holiday for the whole family—but for pets, it comes with hidden risks. By keeping treats out of reach, decorating with care, reducing stress, checking IDs, and being mindful about costumes, you can ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable. With just a few simple precautions, the holiday can be fun, festive, and worry-free for everyone.

Carve Out Some Fun This Halloween!

Download our free pumpkin carving templates featuring cute animal designs.

ARL Featured in Hill’s Pet Nutrition 2025 State of the Shelter Pet Adoption Report

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is proud to be featured in Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s newly released 2025 State of the Shelter Pet Adoption Report!

Hill’s surveyed a socioeconomically diverse group of 2,500 current and prospective pet owners to better understand the growing challenges in animal welfare—namely, the increase in shelter pets and the decline in pet adoption rates.

The report also spotlights insights from ARL President & CEO, Dr. Edward Schettino, underscoring the importance of addressing adoption barriers that individuals in our community face every day. By identifying these challenges, the data helps us better understand what pet parents need to make adoption more accessible, equitable, and sustainable.

 

At ARL, this knowledge is essential. It allows us to strengthen our programs, improve the adoption experience, and, most importantly, provide even greater support to both our communities and the animals in our care.

We’re grateful to partner with Hill’s Pet Nutrition in this vital work, and we encourage you to explore the full report here: Hill’s Pet Nutrition – State of the Shelter Pet Adoption Report.

Easing Back-to-School Stress for Pets

Steps to Help Your Pets Adjust to New Routines

As Greater Boston families settle back into the school-year routine, it’s easy to forget that our pets notice the change too. Dogs and cats, in particular, are deeply attuned to our daily patterns. When the morning rush returns, pets may begin to show signs of stress—such as following you from room to room, becoming clingier, or displaying more concerning behaviors like depression, excessive barking, house soiling, or destructive chewing.

The good news is that there are 6 simple steps you can take to ease your pet’s anxiety and keep them happy during back-to-school season:

  1. Make mornings playful. Add a few minutes of play to your pet’s morning walk and slip in a special treat. Keep goodbyes low-key when you leave, as too much fuss can make departures harder.
  2. Offer a distraction. A food puzzle, treat-stuffed toy, or small bits of kibble hidden around the house can keep pets busy during the first half-hour after you go.
  3. Turn on some background noise. A radio or soft music can be comforting because it mimics the sound of a full household.
  4. Consider midday care. A dog walker can offer a nice break during the day , while doggie daycare may be an option for pets left alone more than eight hours. (Don’t forget: all daycare facilities are not created equal, so check out ARL’s Board Safely® guidelines for important questions to ask!)
  5. Keep greetings calm. When arriving home, reward your dog for calm behavior rather than reinforcing their excitement with immediate eye contact, petting, or high-pitched greetings.
  6. Make evenings matter. Dedicate time after dinner for interactive play. For cats, bring out toys or a pinch of catnip; for dogs, family time and positive attention reinforce that they are loved and secure.

    ARL’s Free Pet Behavior Helpline

    If your pet seems overwhelmed by their new routine, contact the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) FREE Pet Behavior Helpline at (617) 226-5666 or  behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org for support about your dog, cat, or small animal.

    Additionally, if you have school-aged children living in your household, remind them to keep backpacks off the floor. Packed lunches and snacks should stay out of reach, as grapes, raisins, chocolate, gum, candy, and other foods can be toxic to pets. Download our free Bark-to-School Guide.

    Our pets give us unconditional love, and with a little extra thought this season, we can help them adjust to the back-to-school bustle feeling safe, loved, and part of the family.

    Check Your Car Hood—Kittens May Be Hiding Inside

    Two Kittens Found in Car Engines in Taunton and Brockton Now in ARL’s Care

    The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is the only large animal welfare organization in Massachusetts with a dedicated Community Cats program to address the health and safety of the population of more than 700,000 feral, semi-feral, and outdoor cats throughout the state.

    Meet Sparky

    In Taunton, a six-week-old kitten was heard meowing from under the hood of a parked car. Two sisters, Myah and her sibling, followed the sound and found the tiny kitten nestled inside the engine compartment.

    “We were getting into our car and heard a meow,” recalls Myah. “We looked under the cars but didn’t see anything. Then I told my sister we have to look under the hood and, sure enough, when I opened it, we saw her hiding!”

    The kitten, now named Sparky, weighed just 1.4 pounds but was otherwise healthy. She is currently in foster care, where she’ll stay until she reaches a healthy weight, is spayed, and ready for adoption. Best of all—Sparky already has a home lined up with her rescuer.

    Sparky

     

    Meet Pisces

    Sparky isn’t alone. In Brockton, a five-month-old male kitten was also found hiding in a car engine. Named Pisces, he arrived at ARL’s Dedham Animal Care & Adoption Center with a burn on his hind leg, singed whiskers, and signs of an older injury. At 5.8 pounds, Pisces is undergoing wound care and will be neutered before becoming available for adoption in the coming weeks.

    A black and white kitten sitting in a cat kennel with a burn above on of its legs.

    Pisces

    Why Cats Hide in Car Engines

    While unusual, cases like Sparky’s and Pisces’ are not uncommon. Kittens and community cats often seek warmth and shelter inside car engines, especially in wet or cold weather. Sadly, this can lead to injuries . To help prevent these accidents, ARL encourages everyone to tap the hood of your car and do a quick visual check before starting the engine—especially during colder months.

    Lend a Paw to Cats in Need

    Because there is no government funding for this important rescue work, animals must rely on individuals to get the care they need, when they need it most, 365 days a year. Donate now to help Sparky and Pisces, and other vulnerable community kittens.

    New England Patriots Visit ARL

    Building on the Patriots’ Mission to Help Pets Find Homes

    Dr. Dana Kraft and the New England Patriots Foundation visited the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Dedham Animal Care & Adoption Center for a special volunteer day!

    New England Patriots players and Dr. Dana Kraft met and “trained” pups Brandy, Mary, Jack, Whiskey, Hera, and Remi. And they even got to meet our resident pig, Gordy.

    Patriots and team outside against a wooden fencing looking into a paddock containing a pig

    We’re so thankful to the Kraft family, along with players Brenden Schooler, Andy Borregales, Caedan Wallace, Mike Onwenu, and Bryce Barringer, and the entire New England Patriots Foundation for helping give our animals the love and care they deserve.

    Want more puppy love + Patriots smiles? Check out the full image gallery.

    Two Patriots players are playing with a puppy outside

    About the Patriots Foundation

    In 1994, Robert Kraft established the New England Patriots Foundation as a way to give back to the communities the team calls home. Since then, the foundation has focused on supporting individuals and families who are often overlooked or marginalized. Through year-round programs and partnerships with local nonprofits, the foundation continues to strengthen communities and make a lasting impact across New England. Learn more about the Patriots Foundation.

    Supporter Spotlight: Jeanne Lesczcynski & Diane DiCarlo

    Jeanne and Diane have spent 31 wonderful years together, dividing their time between Massachusetts and the sunny shores of Florida. Their days are filled with activities they love—golf and tennis, gardening, theater, and most of all, giving back to the causes that are closest to their hearts. But there’s one thing that has always been at the center of their lives: their love for animals.

    For Diane, animals have always been more than just companions—they’ve been family. As a child, she cared for a variety of animals, including dogs, horses, donkeys, and even sheep. Jeanne shares a similar bond with animals, having grown up with a cherished half-collie, half-sheltie who lived to the remarkable age of 18. Their current rescue dog, Rocco, has been a beloved member of their family for years, and they often joke that he’s the one who truly keeps them on their toes!

    Jeanne and Diane’s journey with ARL began when a friend invited them to our Paws to Celebrate event in Dedham. What they witnessed that day—rescued animals finding love and care—left an indelible mark on their hearts. It was at that moment that they knew they wanted to be a part of something bigger, something that would make a lasting difference in the lives of animals and people alike.

    Becoming monthly donors was a natural choice. As Jeanne puts it, “it’s the easiest way to give—you don’t have to think about it, and it’s always there when you need it.”

    For Jeanne and Diane, their monthly support ensures ARL can continue to provide lifesaving services for animals and their families year-round. They understand the importance of consistent, reliable funding for nonprofits, allowing them to plan and grow their impact. When it comes to choosing where to direct their donations, Jeanne and Diane look for a nonprofit that is transparent and has a tangible local impact.

    “We want to see where our money goes and know it’s making a difference,” they explain. This is why they are particularly drawn to ARL’s community programs like the Spay Waggin’® and the Wellness Waggin’®, which bring critical services directly to the communities that need them. “It’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about keeping families together,” they say, proudly highlighting ARL’s holistic approach to animal welfare.

    But Jeanne and Diane’s philanthropy doesn’t stop at animal welfare. Jeanne, a retired microbiologist, is a passionate advocate for environmental preservation. She is a long- time Board Member of the Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown, and a former Board member of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. She has worked to protect Florida’s Mangrove habitats, even purchasing properties to prevent them from being developed. She received Certification as a Florida Master Naturalist this past year. Diane’s philanthropy extends to political and humanitarian causes, including organizations like the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, and the Red Cross.

    Jeanne and Diane’s deep commitment to animals, conservation, and social causes makes them not only incredible supporters of ARL but also compassionate change-makers in every corner of their community. Their generosity is a beacon of hope, ensuring that animals and people alike receive the care, protection, and love they deserve.

    ARL is deeply grateful for the generosity of Jeanne and Diane and all monthly donors, whose consistent support makes a lasting impact. Their kindness and dedication ensure that animals receive the care, protection, and love they deserve, strengthening the bond between pets and the people who cherish them.

    Learn more about monthly giving.

    Massachusetts Animal Control Officer of the Year 2025

    The Animal Rescue League of Boston and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) are pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the annual Massachusetts Animal Control Officer (ACO) of the Year award.

    The award was established to honor an animal control officer whose efforts in his/her local community throughout the year demonstrate:

      • A dedicated, humane attitude toward the treatment and well-being of all animals
      • Effective enforcement of pet responsibility laws
      • A commitment to public awareness and humane education programs
      • Cooperative working relationships with other agencies, such as state and local government departments, other ACOs, and animal protection groups

    All officers in Massachusetts are required to undergo training through the Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources. In order to receive this award, an ACO must be current on the state’s mandated training requirements through the Mass Animal Fund.

    Nominations should be submitted in writing and may come from government officials, other officers, animal protection organizations, or private citizens.

    Submissions should explain how the nominee has met the above criteria and should be sent to both:

    Allison Blanck
    Animal Rescue League of Boston
    10 Anna’s Pl
    Dedham, MA 02026
    ablanck@arlboston.org

    Kara Holmquist
    MSPCA
    350 South Huntington Avenue
    Boston, MA 02130
    kholmquist@mspca.org

    Nominations must be received by September 30, 2025.

    Bagel-Named Beagles Arrive at ARL

    Rescued from overcrowding in Franklin County

    This week, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is assisting the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Team with the removal of 34 beagles from an overcrowding situation at a home kennel in Northwestern Massachusetts. As part of a multi-agency, collaborative rescue, ARL is now caring for 10 of the beagles at its Boston facility and will provide the dogs with compassionate care, veterinary and behavior exams, and spay/neuter services. The beagles will be put up for adoption when they are ready.

    The dogs range in ages up to eight years-old, are friendly and appear to be well-fed. The 10 beagles being cared for at ARL’s Boston facility include three males and seven females. The dogs are named after bagels: Everything, Blueberry, Pumpernickel, Asiago, Sesame, Cinnamon Raisin, Egg, Marble, Poppy, and Jalapeño Cheddar.

    A person wearing a red t-shirt sits crosslegged on the ground, outside. Two beagle dogs are next to them - one beagle dog is sitting in their lap.

    Animal Rescue League of Boston staff member helps care for two beagles (Sesame (left) and Cinnamon Raisin (right).

    Local law enforcement contacted the Franklin County’s Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Team, which responded to the residence. The owners surrendered the dogs. An investigation is underway by local authorities. ARL is caring for and providing medical care to 10 of the beagles at its Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center, where a new state-of-the-art facility is being built that will allow ARL to care for more animals in these types of situations. The remaining beagles are being taken to organizations in New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts.

    Help Give Overcrowded Rescue Dogs the Care They Deserve

    Overcrowding is a complex issue that can lead to serious health concerns not only for animals, but for people living among them as well. Animals saved from overcrowding situations can have many health and behavior issues, and over the next few days and weeks, these dogs will need extraordinary care. A sudden influx of animals puts a strain on ARL’s resources.

    ARL is asking the public for assistance to provide the care and support these animals need by donating. ARL is prepared to help anyone who has too many animals in the home, and works with pet owners to find a solution that works best for both the animals and people involved.

    If you or someone you know needs assistance, call (617) 426-9170 for more information.

    Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society® Spotlight

    Michael Samuelian and Sean Murray

    For Michael and Sean, a chance encounter in a South End coffee shop on a winter morning two decades ago led not only to a lifelong partnership but also to a shared journey rooted in love, community, and compassion for animals.

    Though Sean wasn’t always a pet person, that changed when he met Michael. Michael had long been an animal lover, growing up with many cats as cherished family members—including Mayday, a beloved black cat he had when he and Sean met.

    Mayday came into Michael’s life when his roommate heard meowing from a box near their apartment. Inside was a tiny black kitten, and they named him Mayday in honor of the urgent cries that led to his rescue.

    When Mayday passed at the remarkable age of 21, the loss was deeply felt. Mayday had clearly made an impression on Sean, and he gently suggested they open their hearts to another cat—which led them to ARL.

    After meeting with a few cats, Sean felt the tap of a little paw on his shoulder. He turned around to find James (then Jimmy) reaching out from his kennel. It was clear: James had chosen them. From that moment, he became a beloved part of the family, known fondly as “Lord James,” “Sir Meows-a-Lot,” and dozens of other affectionate nicknames.

    Since then, Michael and Sean’s connection to ARL has only deepened. As proud members of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society®, they’ve made the meaningful decision to include ARL in their estate plans, ensuring that their love for animals will make a lasting impact long into the future.

    “We’re fortunate to be in a place where we can help,” they shared. “Supporting ARL means we’re helping those who can’t speak for themselves.”

    Their legacy gift reflects not only their trust in ARL’s mission, but their shared values: a commitment to community, a desire to protect vulnerable animals, and a deep appreciation for organizations that use resources wisely. “We wanted to be deliberate. We believe in ARL’s people, and its work—especially law enforcement, affordable veterinary care, and humane education.”

    Michael and Sean support other important causes as well—ranging from cancer and HIV care to food security initiatives—but ARL holds a special place in their hearts. “Leaving a legacy with ARL is our way of making sure more animals can live a life like James’.”

    Their story is a testament to the power of love—not only between two people, but between people and their pets. We are profoundly grateful to Michael and Sean, and to every member of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society, for their enduring compassion.

    Did you know August is National Make-A-Will Month?

    Just as animals have touched your life, you can forever touch the lives of animals by including the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) in your will or financial plans.

    Learn how to leave your print and make more than a lifetime of impact for animals.

    When you include ARL in your Will or other plans, you become a member of the Anna Harris Smith Legacy Society® and join the company of compassionate supporters like Michael and Sean, who want their dedication to the well-being of animals to continue long into the future.

    Have you included, or are you thinking of including ARL in your will? Let us know so we can thank you! Please contact Jackie at jsmith@arlboston.org.

    ARL Reminds Pet Owners to Keep Pets Safe During Heat Wave

    Tips to Protect Pets in Extreme Heat

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

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

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

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

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

    More summer pet safety tips.