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Gov. Charlie Baker Visits ARL to Celebrate Reduced Rabies Quarantine

New regulations allow cats and dogs to find loving homes 2 months sooner

On October 10, 2016, Governor Charlie Baker, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, and Administration and Finance Secretary Kristen Lepore joined the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) to highlight significant changes in Massachusetts state regulations.

Visit our Facebook page to watch a recap of yesterday’s press conference.

One of these changes in regulation included an adjustment to the rabies quarantine period for shelter animals. Under the new law, the quarantine period has been reduced from six to four months, allowing cats and dogs to find loving homes sooner. This decision will improve the lives of  animal in need and increase space and flexibility for animal shelters like the ARL.

“We applaud Governor Baker and his team for taking swift action ensuring the humane treatment of animals and providing greater access to shelter space for more animals in need,” said Mary Nee, President of the ARL. “These newly revised regulations prove that Massachusetts takes animal welfare standards seriously and is willing to lead the country in adopting the National Association of Veterinary and Public Health recommendations.”

Earlier this year, the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians issued new recommendations in the 2016 Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention advising reducing quarantine periods to four months due to evidence animals in isolation for an extended period of six months can become stressed and depressed, even with regular human socialization.

“Our shelter staff and veterinarians are eager to comply with these new common sense regulations. While rabies is a serious public health concern, science proves that excessive quarantine for animals is not necessary and is potentially harmful to otherwise healthy animals,” said Dr. Edward Schettino, VP of Animal Welfare and Veterinary Services at the ARL. 

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Governor Charlie Baker greets ARL staff and volunteers.

 

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ARL’s President Mary Nee takes the podium at Monday’s press conference.

 

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Governor Charlie Baker stops to take a selfie with adoptable rabbit, Nikki. Click the photo to learn more about her.

THANK YOU to Governor Charlie Baker and his administration for taking this important step for shelter animals!

Animal Rescue League of Boston Rescues Dozens of Sick Birds

Animal owners in the Dorchester Neighborhood notified to be cautious while walking their dogs

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Today, the ARL will send 15 birds to Tufts Wildlife Center in Grafton, MA for additional treatment.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) responded to 33 Bakersfield Street in Dorchester, MA on September 8, 2016  in response to a resident who called regarding her sick cat and the observation of birds falling from trees.

The ARL immediately gave emergency treatment to one cat, but unfortunately the cat could not be saved.

Additionally, 47 Grackle-type birds were either falling to the ground, sick, thrashing and unable to fly, or were found unresponsive.

It was determined that the birds should be isolated and neighbors notified to keep dogs and other animals from the area.

Current update on the 47 Grackles:

  • 12 birds found deceased on scene
  • 8 birds passed away shortly after rescue on their way to the shelter
  • 12 birds were humanely euthanized due to their poor condition
  • 15 birds remain in good condition in the custody of the Animal Rescue League of Boston Veterinary Team. Today, these animals will be sent to Tufts Wildlife Center in Grafton, MA.

The ARL continues to work with the State Department of Agriculture, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, City of Boston Inspectional Services Department, and Boston Public Health Commission to determine the cause of this unusual incident.

DONATE NOW to ensure that animals in need, like the many Grackles involved in this case, receive the critical veterinary care that they need.

Over 170,000 Signatures Collected to STOP Farm Animal Cruelty

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) hosts rally to celebrate successful signature campaign

We’re thrilled to be a part of the Citizens for Farm Animal Protection campaign, where over 170,000 signatures have been collected to phase out the extreme confinement of animals at industrial-style factory farms, as well as the sale of products produced under those conditions. Last week, fifteen boxes containing the #StopCrueltyMA signatures made their way to the Secretary of the Commonwealth for certification and to secure a spot on the November ballot.

Interested in lending a hand? Learn how you can help.

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Special thanks to all of the wonderful organizations involved including the HSUS, ASPCA, MSPCA Animal Action Team, Franklin Park Zoo, The Humane League – Boston, Mercy For Animals, Farm Forward, Compassion in World Farming (USA), Animal Equality, Farm Sanctuary, the Mass Sierra Club and all of the dedicated volunteers who collected signatures and to all those who supported this momentous effort to end the extreme confinement of farm animals!

 

Breaking News: Severely Matted Dog Rescued in Westport, MA

ARL & Westport Police Seeking Public’s Help with Information

DO YOU RECOGNIZE THIS DOG? Contact the Westport Police Department at  (508) 636-1122 or the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Law Enforcement Department at (617) 226-5610.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and the Westport Police Department need the public’s assistance with information about a severely matted dog found roaming the area of Sanford Road and Milk Avenue in Westport, Massachusetts on Sunday, June 5.

Watch Jersey’s story, as reported by Fox 25.

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Severely matted dog “Jersey” was found wandering the area of Sanford Road and Milk Avenue on Sunday, June 5.

The ARL was called to assist local authorities with the care and investigation of the animal. The severely matted dog, now known as “Jersey”, had no collar, markings or identification. She is estimated to be an 8-year-old female Brussels Griffin mix. Scroll to the bottom to watch her video.  

Jersey is in severe condition and will undergo enucleation surgery on Friday, June 10, rendering her permanently blind. She will also have bladder stones removed and some significant dental treatments.

She is being cared for at the ARL’s Boston shelter. Jersey’s extensive medical treatments will cost between $3,000-$4,000.

While there may be many circumstances that led to the animal being lost or abandoned, the Westport Police is seeking any information that helps to find her owner(s) or other individuals that have a connection to this animal.

The public is encouraged to contact the Westport Police Department directly at (508) 636-1122 or the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Law Enforcement Department at (617) 226-5610.