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

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

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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

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Orange Subaru Loves Pets graphic with a white paw-print emblem and bold logo text over faint pet-themed icons.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston Receives $4,000 Grant from Copeland Subaru Hyannis and the ASPCA® as part of the Subaru Loves Pets® Campaign

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) has been awarded a $4,000 grant from Copeland Subaru Hyannis to help cover essential costs associated with preparing animals for adoption, including veterinary expenses and other needs this October. The funding was administered by the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), as part of Subaru Loves Pets®, a national Subaru initiative dedicated to improving the lives of shelter animals. Subaru Loves Pets® Adoption Event Copeland Subaru Hyannis and ARL are teaming up to host a special adoption event on Saturday, October 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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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

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

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