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 curious tabby kitten with wide eyes peeks out from a beige pet carrier, being gently held by a person in a brown coat, creating a warm, tender moment.

Welcome A New Pet During the Holidays?

Animal Rescue League of Boston Offers Tips and Resources for Families At a time when many families are welcoming new pets into their homes, Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) shares expert resources and advice about settling furry family members into a new environment. Resources include ARL’s Pet Behavior Helpline – a free service that can answer basic pet behavioral questions. Whether it’s excessive barking, crate training, house soiling, or another issue, pet families with questions can call the Pet Behavior Helpline at (617) 226-5666 or via email behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org. “It’s very special to welcome a new family member to the

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Newborn puppy with closed eyes and speckled fur lying on a white towel.

Week-Old Puppies Sugar Plum and Nutcracker Arrive at ARL Boston

These Fragile Newborns Need Round-The-Clock Care and Support Newborn sibling puppies, Sugar Plum and Nutcracker, arrived at the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) last week and are in need of urgent, round-the-clock care this holiday season to grow strong and healthy. The American Bulldog and German Shepherd mix pups were part of an unexpected litter, and their mother was unable to care for them. Puppies are extremely vulnerable without their mother and require intensive care. The cost for ARL to care for Sugar Plum and Nutcracker over the next few weeks is estimated at about $3,000. With no government

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A black and white kitten lies on a patterned rug, gazing with bright eyes. A Christmas tree with twinkling lights is blurred in the background.

ARL Offers Tips to Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is reminding pet owners of some things to keep in mind to help keep our pets safe and healthy as we celebrate with friends, family, food and festivities! Plants and Decorations Pet owners should be aware of the holiday plants being brought into the home – mistletoe, holly, some types of lilies can cause a host of issues if they are ingested and additionally, poinsettias, while traditional, can also be toxic. Stick to artificial plant decorations, or opt for a pet-friendly bouquet. If you have a

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A curious tabby kitten with wide eyes peeks out from a beige pet carrier, being gently held by a person in a brown coat, creating a warm, tender moment.

Welcome A New Pet During the Holidays?

Animal Rescue League of Boston Offers Tips and Resources for Families At a time when many families are welcoming new pets into their homes, Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) shares expert resources and advice about settling furry family members into a new environment. Resources include ARL’s Pet Behavior Helpline – a free service that can answer basic pet behavioral questions. Whether it’s excessive barking, crate training, house soiling, or another issue, pet families with questions can call the Pet Behavior Helpline at (617) 226-5666 or via email behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org. “It’s very special to welcome a new family member to the

Read More

three circles showing ARL staff members with animals
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animals helped
with your support in 2024!

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