History

In 1899, Boston social worker Anna Harris Smith wrote that while getting dogs and cats off the street is work worth doing, the teaching of thoughtful kindness is the work that changes families, communities and a nation.

This philosophy launched the creation of an organization that has grown to respond to animals in need throughout Eastern Massachusetts and beyond.

Today, thanks to the generosity of our donors, the League has a dedicated staff of over 90 people at facilities in Boston, Brewster and Dedham, MA who provide various veterinary, law enforcement, rehabilitation and other services to a variety of animals. We are proud to be a respected resource for the local and national animal welfare community, and most importantly to improve the lives of the animals we rescue.

Check back soon for a timeline of our incredible history and much, much more!