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

Two, brown baby wild rabbits sit calmly among green grass. 

I Found A Baby Wild Animal. What Do I Do Now?

ARL Provides Tips on What to Do When You See a Baby Animal on Their Own Spring has sprung. The sun is shining. Flowers are blooming. And baby wild animals are starting to wander from their nests. This time of year, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) receives phone calls from concerned citizens who come across baby birds and other baby wild animals on the ground. As animals start to grow up, they will begin exploring outside of their nests and often have not learned to be afraid of humans yet. Baby birds may also find their ways out

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A joyful black Labrador with a red collar runs through shallow ocean waves, holding a blue-green frisbee in its mouth. 

6 Water Safety Tips for Your Pup

Keep Your Dog Safe in and Around the Water This Summer Swimming can be a fun way to help your dog cool off during warmer months, but water can also pose risks. Whether you’re heading to a beach, lake, pond, or a pool, a little preparation can help keep your pup safe. 1. Check Before You Go Before heading out, confirm that your destination is dog friendly. Many beaches, lakes, ponds, and parks have rules around dogs, including restricted hours, leash requirements, seasonal bans, or limited access areas. 2. Know Your Dog’s Limits Despite the term “doggy paddle,” not all

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alan-borgal-50-blog-thumb

A Legendary Legacy: Honoring Alan Borgal’s 50 Years of Compassion

ARL Celebrates a Lifelong Advocate Whose Dedication to Animals and Community Has Changed Countless Lives On May 6, 2026, ARL’s Board of Directors proudly presented Alan Borgal with the Anna Harris Smith Award, one of the organization’s highest honors. Named after ARL’s founder, Anna Harris Smith, this award is given only on rare occasions to extraordinary humanitarians whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact on animals and the community. For more than 50 years, Alan has devoted his life to protecting animals, investigating cruelty, promoting kindness, and ensuring that vulnerable animals receive the care and compassion they deserve.

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Two, brown baby wild rabbits sit calmly among green grass. 

I Found A Baby Wild Animal. What Do I Do Now?

ARL Provides Tips on What to Do When You See a Baby Animal on Their Own Spring has sprung. The sun is shining. Flowers are blooming. And baby wild animals are starting to wander from their nests. This time of year, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) receives phone calls from concerned citizens who come across baby birds and other baby wild animals on the ground. As animals start to grow up, they will begin exploring outside of their nests and often have not learned to be afraid of humans yet. Baby birds may also find their ways out

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
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animals helped
with your support in 2025!

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