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 2026 Top-Rated badge

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 wide-eyed black kitten peeks from a soft tan blanket as a hand gently pets her back.

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

Read More

Tiny, a black and white dog adopted from ARL

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

Read More

A puppy lying on the grass on a sunny morning and bright scarf with a pumpkin pattern. A pumpkin is beside him

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: 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

Read More

A wide-eyed black kitten peeks from a soft tan blanket as a hand gently pets her back.

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

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
0

animals helped
with your support in 2025!

We’re social!