A person smiling, holding a small black and white dog

Pets are family.

This belief is at the heart of everything we do at ARL.

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.

a veterinary tech trimming a tabby kitten's nails
  • Classy Awards 2023 Winner
  • Great Non Profits 2025 Top-Rated

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.

Adopt

Matching adoptable animals
with a loving home

Dog Training

Courses are offered
in Dedham

Medical Care

Offering high-quality, low-cost
veterinary services

Community Programs

Meeting animals and people
where they live

ARL In Action

A small, fluffy dog sits calmly on a vet exam table. A veterinarian in a red uniform gently holds the dog, with a stethoscope nearby.

The Rising Cost of Veterinary Care

‘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

Read More

A large, curious dog gazes at a plate of food placed on a kitchen counter.

5 Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Should Avoid

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

Read More

A black and white puppy sitting outside on pavement. A table is shown in the background with a Subaru Loves Pets tablecloth.

A Paws-itive Partnership: ARL and Copeland Subaru Find Homes for Dogs

The “Bark & Bagels” adoption event, part of the nationwide Subaru Loves Pets® month, successfully connected local families with adoptable dogs in Hyannis The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) received support for local shelter animals through grant funding from Copeland Subaru Hyannis and an adoption event held on Saturday, October 18 which helped two dogs, Penne and Barney, find new homes in the community. The effort was part of Subaru Loves Pets®, a national Subaru initiative to support the lives of as many shelter animals as possible. ARL brought five dogs to the event and two were adopted. Barney

Read More

A small, fluffy dog sits calmly on a vet exam table. A veterinarian in a red uniform gently holds the dog, with a stethoscope nearby.

The Rising Cost of Veterinary Care

‘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

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
0

animals helped
with your support in 2024!

We’re social!