Our Mission
The Animal Rescue League of Boston is an unwavering champion for animals in need, committed to keeping them safe and healthy in homes.
Recognized for our innovative, award-winning programs that go beyond sheltering, we address the root causes of the issues facing animals and the people who love them.
By partnering with communities, we help animals heal and thrive, keep pets and people together, and protect animals from harm.
Because there is no government funding for this important work, animals must rely on people like you to get the care they need, when they need it most, 365 days a year.
ARL In Action
Supporter Spotlight: Mary Jane Treacy & Connie Chan
November 17, 2025
For Connie and Mary Jane, a shared love of animals has been a constant throughout their lives. After years as professors in Boston—Connie in clinical psychology and Mary Jane in the humanities—they retired to Cape Cod, where they embraced a new chapter filled with four-legged family members and a commitment to animal welfare. Their journey with ARL began years ago at our Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center when they added a cat named Gigi to their family. They then became clients at Boston Veterinary Care for Gigi and the rest of their felines. When Connie and Mary Jane moved
The Rising Cost of Veterinary Care
November 16, 2025
‘It blew me away’: Skyrocketing veterinary bills are hitting Massachusetts pet parents hard By Dana Gerber Globe Staff, Updated November 7, 2025 Article excerpt: Edward Schettino, president of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said the private equity push is “a large part” of climbing prices. According to data from Pitchbook, the number of private equity deals in the veterinary industry began ramping up about a decade ago, cresting in 2021, just as the pandemic drove a boom in pet ownership. The trend has drawn the ire of Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, who last year accused private equity firms of jacking up
5 Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Should Avoid
November 12, 2025
Keep your pup happy and healthy this holiday season Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, good food, and great company – including our pets! While it’s tempting to slip your dog a little taste from your plate, some holiday favorites can actually cause serious harm. Before your pup partakes in Thanksgiving the feast, here are five foods to keep off their menu: Turkey Bones They might seem like a classic treat, but turkey bones can easily splinter and get lodged in your dog’s throat or digestive tract. This can lead to choking, internal injuries, or even surgery. So skip the bones
Supporter Spotlight: Mary Jane Treacy & Connie Chan
November 17, 2025
For Connie and Mary Jane, a shared love of animals has been a constant throughout their lives. After years as professors in Boston—Connie in clinical psychology and Mary Jane in the humanities—they retired to Cape Cod, where they embraced a new chapter filled with four-legged family members and a commitment to animal welfare. Their journey with ARL began years ago at our Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center when they added a cat named Gigi to their family. They then became clients at Boston Veterinary Care for Gigi and the rest of their felines. When Connie and Mary Jane moved
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