WEYMOUTH (CBS) – You don’t see this too often.

A swan ran into a car Monday and the swan won.

It happened near Whitman’s Pond in Weymouth around 11 a.m.

The swan shortly after the collision.

Bill Tanguay, a Senior Rescue Technician at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said he was called to the scene and when he arrived he saw a shattered windshield on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

“I assumed the swan was going to be on its last leg,” Tanguay told WBZ-TV.

Instead, the swan was a few feet away hissing at him and the police.

Tanguay put him in a carrier and brought him back to Boston.

The swan was fine. They cleaned it up and will now bring him to a wildlife rehabilitator.

So what happened?

Tanguay said it appears the swan was either landing or taking off from the pond when it ran into the car.

“It seemed to have just fallen right out of the sky,” he said.

The driver was not hurt.

BOSTON (CBS) – The Animal Rescue League of Boston is looking for information about a neglected and abused puppy that was found in Dorchester.

A FedEx driver found the dog Wednesday morning. It is about five to six months old and was dehydrated and severely underweight.

The Rescue League is now trying to care for the dog and is working in conjunction with Boston Animal Control to investigate the case.

Anyone who has information is encouraged to call the Animal Rescue League of Boston as soon as possible at 617-226-5610.

WEYMOUTH (CBS) – A Canada Goose that was found shot in the head with an arrow last week is recovering.

Crews from the Animal Rescue League of Boston managed to capture the injured goose from a pond in Plymouth.

“This animal was brought to us as an emergency case,” says Dr. Rob Adamski of the New England Wildlife Center. “Somebody had shot it with an arrow. So the arrow was still actually embedded in the animal’s head. It is a very lucky bird.”

The doctors say they’ve never seen a case like this one, and that’s good news for a goose that seems to be living a charmed life.

“My first reaction was, wow, wow,” says Dr. Greg Mertz, also of the NE Wildlife Center.

He knew he had to do something.

“I took hold of the arrow and just to see how firmly entrenched it was and it actually spun in my hand. So I just gently took it and pulled it right out,” says Mertz.

The goose is being treated at the New England Wildlife Center in Weymouth and is expected to survive. Treatment is expected to last for the next several weeks, but staff members say the goose is active, eating, and starting to look healthier. The hope is to return it to the area in Plymouth where it was found.

“For having an arrow shot through the side of his head it is actually doing remarkably well,” says Dr. Adamski.

The really amazing thing is the arrow didn’t hit anything vital.

“It didn’t hit any nerves. It didn’t seem to hit any major blood vessels. And it was an amazingly lucky duck, or goose,” says Dr. Mertz.

The biggest problem right now is a mild infection, but the doctors are optimistic.

“If all goes well he gets released. He goes out in the wild again,” says Mertz.

While the incident is being investigated, no word on who shot the goose.

Online: New England Wildlife Center

Animal Rescue League of Boston

WBZ NewsRadio 1030’s Laurie Kirby reports

BOSTON (CBS) – Animal shelters in Massachusetts may be in trouble. Some say that new state regulations would make it harder for them to care for abandoned animals.

The rules are designed to protect pets and their new families, but shelter operators say the rules would have unintended consequences.

“We take pride in the quality of care that is given to our dogs and our staff is trained to recognize illness in dogs,” said Marion McEwan of the Blue Dog Animal Shelter. “So therefore we don’t feel that that additional health certificate adds anything except a burden to the shelter.”

The state wants to make sure that people who adopt dogs and cats get a healthy animal so they’ve come up with some new regulations.

A certificate of health has to be signed by a vet within 30 days before adoption, foster homes may be subject to inspections and adoptions of pets with an issue that may pose a safety risk will be banned.

Officials say it will protect people and pets. “We want to make sure they have enough information to make an informed decision about whether or not they can take on the responsibility of that pet,” said Mike Driscoll of the Division of Animal Health.

At the Animal Rescue League of Boston, they adopted out 1,000 animals this past summer. They say if they have to have vets examine every animal twice, it could run them out of business.

“We’re supportive of full disclosure,” says Martha Smith-Blackmore of the Animal Rescue League of Boston. “We want people to understand what they’re getting into, but we want permission to place the animals that may be mildly sick, that don’t pose a threat to people in the community.”

SHARON (CBS) — Members of the Sharon Fire Department and the Animal Rescue League of Boston saved a hawk Sunday afternoon that had become entangled in landscape netting, public safety officials said.

At about 1 p.m., firefighters were dispatched to Sentry Hill Road after public safety officials received a report of a large bird in distress. When the firefighters arrived, they found the hawk on the ground entangled in netting that had been placed around shrubbery.

The firefighters draped a blanket over the hawk, calming the animal, then cut the netting to free the bird of prey. Members of the Animal Rescue League of Boston took the hawk for possible treatment.

A hawk rescued from an entanglement in Sharon recovers at the Animal Rescue League of Boston on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014. (Credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The Fire Department reported the netting had been place around vegetation to keep deer from eating it.

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BOSTON (CBS) – A skunk sprays your chocolate lab.

A raccoon trashes your garbage.

A seagull vandalizes your picnic basket at the beach.

Would you lift a finger to save any of these animals if they were in trouble?

Maybe not, but the Animal Rescue League of Boston would.

Related: More “Robi On The Road”

For over 100 years, they have made it their mission to advocate for animals, wild or domestic.

While their most common rescue is probably cats stuck in trees, the league has answered many animal distress calls.

A raccoon with a peanut butter jar stuck on his head.

A skunk stuck at the bottom of an empty swimming pool.

A woodpecker that had flown into a window.

All of these creatures were saved, then received medical attention from the Animal Rescue League.

A seagull being treated for pneumonia. (WBZ-TV)

We watched them treat a seagull for pneumonia. ARL brought the gull to the New England Wildlife Center in Weymouth. It received medication, x-rays and other treatment that cost thousands of dollars.

All the treatment for these animals are made possible through donations.

The Animal Rescue League not only saves pets and feral creatures, they also advocate for anti-animal cruelty laws.

The ARL also helps animals get adopted and even provide burial services.

When asked if they get criticized for advocating for wild animals that can be considered enemies to man, like skunks and raccoons, Bill Tanguay said, “Whatever you are, whoever you are, nothing deserves to suffer.”

If you’d like to donate to the Animal Rescue League of Boston, visit their website.

MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM CBS BOSTON

• Cambridge Police Warn Residents After Rash Of Break-Ins
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• New Bedford Developer Drops Out Of Casino Competition
• Bike With Sentimental Value Stolen From PMC Rider On Cape Cod

GLOUCESTER (CBS) – A stranded duck was plucked from the frigid waters of Gloucester after it became tangled in a net and stuck on the ice.

Several Animal Rescue League of Boston members were involved in the rescue, including two who donned cold water suits to rescue the duck.

A volunteer leaves the Gloucester water with a rescued duck. (Image Credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

According to the Animal Rescue League, a rescuer was tethered to shore and made his way out to the duck.

The bird was rescued, and volunteers discovered that it was stuck on the ice because it was “severely tangled” in a net.

A Gloucester duck was tangled in netting and stuck on the ice. (Image Credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The netting was cut off of the duck, and it was taken to a wildlife veterinarian for evaluation.

BOSTON (CBS) – Did you know your pet cannot legally be buried alongside you in Massachusetts?

Well, there’s a new push to keep you and your companion close for eternity.

Many of us treat our pets like beloved family members in life and, ever more frequently, in death.

“For families who have pets they’re a very high priority,” says Cheryl Traversi of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, which operates Pine Ridge Pet Cemetery in Dedham, one of the nation’s oldest.

“This is your daily companion. It makes sense that you would want to be buried with your animal.”

A headstone in the Pine Ridge Pet Cemetery in Dedham. (WBZ-TV)

But at a State House hearing Tuesday on a bill that would make us the fifth state to allow pet burials alongside their humans, the idea had its critics.

“God created human beings in God’s image, and it cannot be compromised in burial,” said Stan Kaplan of the Jewish Cemetery Association of Massachusetts.

The bill’s legislative sponsor claims no cemetery would be forced to accept animal burials.

But, Rep. Nick Collins, a Democrat from Boston, said, “There are people, many people, who have a very close relationship with their pets, consider them part of the family, and we think this should be an option on the table.”

Guy Glodis of the State Cemetery Association says there are “environmental concerns, sanitary concerns, religious concerns” to worry about.

However, he understands the human-pet bond from observing his wife’s love for their shih-tzu.

I asked him – if she had to choose between being buried with the dog and buried with you, who would she choose?

“She would unequivocally pick the dog, no doubt about it,” Glodis said.

Americans are on track to spend more than $60 billion on our pets this year.

Why?

Because unconditional love and the loyal companionship that pets offer are hard to come by in this era. So, it’s no wonder some people would like to extend that companionship into eternity.

BOSTON (CBS) — A dog that ran away from her new owners after being spooked by gunshots at a nearby firing range is back home.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston said “Maya” had spent only two hours at her new home when the gunshots sent her running, still wearing a leash.

“Maya’s owner was absolutely devastated and for 7 weeks she searched for her sweet pup,” the league said.

A rescue services team set up a humane drop net last week, and the hound mix was caught the next day.

Maya’s foster owner, who looked after her in Nashville, Tennessee, commented on the Animal Rescue League’s Facebook page, writing that Maya is “such a sweet loving soul.”

Photo collage of Maya the dog, who was missing for seven weeks. (Image credit Animal Rescue League of Boston)

“The last 7 weeks have been filled with worry and sadness,” she said. “I am so relieved and grateful to you for your quick and humane capture.”

The Animal Rescue League says Maya now goes by “Faith.”

BOSTON (CBS) — A 10-week-old puppy hurt after being thrown out of a moving vehicle in Lowell on Monday afternoon is recovering at the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

Witnesses say a man driving the vehicle tossed Austin, a four-pound teacup Yorkshire Terrier, out of the driver’s side window near the Tsongas Arena before speeding away, according to an ARL press statement.

A pair of drivers who had been driving behind the man immediately stopped, helped the puppy, and called police.

One of the good Samaritans rushed the dog to the Wignall Animal Hospital in Dracut.

“When he arrived at the animal hospital, sweet little Austin was clearly shaken up from the incident,” said Darleen Wood, Lowell police’s animal control compliance officer, in the statement.

“He had bleeding on the left side of his jaw and neck, and could not stop drooling and crying. He was clearly in a lot of pain.”

Hospital staff treated Austin by giving him pain medication, as well as a full-body x-ray.

Austin was not seriously hurt, only suffering superficial wounds.

Police and the animal control division contacted ARL for help covering Austin’s medical bill, caring for him, and assisting with the investigation.

Austin. (Courtesy Photo: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

ARL says it has cost more than $400 to take care of Austin.

The puppy arrived at the rescue league on Wednesday afternoon for an additional veterinary checkup before going home with a foster volunteer.

The ARL and police will be reviewing surveillance video captured near where the incident occurred.

It’s unclear what type of vehicle the puppy was tossed from, and no description of the suspect has been given yet.

Anyone with information is asked to called the Animal Rescue League’s law enforcement team at (617) 226-5610.

For more information on how to donate to help pay for Austin’s medical expenses, visit the ARL website.

BOSTON (CBS) — A small dog that ran away from a car crash on the Revere Beach Parkway Friday night has been found.

The dog, named Frankie, was spotted running down Interstate 93 South Saturday morning, according to the Animal Rescue League of Boston Twitter page. The good Samaritan who saw him stopped his car and picked him up.

Frankie fled a man’s vehicle after he was involved in the crash. The man was still hospitalized on Saturday.

The tan chi with white paws is expected to be picked up from a Boston shelter Sunday by the owner’s sister.

BOSTON (CBS) – Each month, WBZ Cares highlights a worthy non-profit organization, and tells the story of what that organization does for the community. This month’s organization, The Animal Rescue League of Boston, has been working tirelessly for more than a century to rescue and care for animals in need, and now boasts three shelter locations.

When the league formed by Anna Harris Smith in 1899, horses and carriages were the main means of transportation in and out of Boston.

During that era, Harris Smith, a big-hearted social worker working with families in the city’s South End neighborhood, was appalled by the treatment of horses and conditions of cats and dogs on the street.

Anna Harris Smith, Founder of the Animal Rescue League of Boston (Photo Credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston Archives)

“She was also equally as appalled by the fact that children were witnessing animal abuse,” said league president Mary Nee.
Shortly after opening the Chandler Street location, Harris Smith opened a shelter in Dedham, Mass where she would rehabilitate horses during the summer months according to Nee.

“She would spend the summers there, and have horses from Boston come out for a week of respite, actually revive themselves,” Nee said.

Today, the Animal Rescue League of Boston has expanded to three different locations: Boston, Dedham, and Brewster.
“We also have law enforcement, we do anti-cruelty investigation; we have emergency rescue services, community veterinary services. Our spay wagon moves all through the South Shore and Cape Cod,” Nee said.

Throughout its 118-year history, the mission of the Animal Rescue League remains the same.

“Keep animals safe and healthy and habitats and homes. We would really like to see animals never having to come to a shelter,” Nee said.

“People can keep their animals that they have the resources to provide adequate veterinary care. And working with people that are struggling out there,” she said.

The shelter takes in about 6-thousand unwanted animals per year and about 90-percent of them are adopted. Nee says it is the many happy endings of seeing animals finding a forever home that makes it worthwhile for the staff and volunteers.

“When you spend any amount of time here, you fall in love with the place. The connection between people and animals is just so profound,” Nee said. “Really the miracles that happen every day, the animals that come in from sometimes really horrible situations and then after some care, they go out the door and really, they add to families. Families write to us all the time, it is the phrase, ‘Who Rescued Who?’

For more information about The Animal Rescue League of Boston, visit. www.arlboston.org or the WBZ Cares section on the CBSBoston.com website during the month of March.

BOSTON (CBS) – Each month, WBZ Cares highlights a worthy non-profit organization, and tells the story of what that organization does for the community. This month’s organization, The Animal Rescue League of Boston, has been working tirelessly for more than a century to rescue and care for animals in need, and now boasts three shelter locations.

At their Boston location on Chandler St, tiny paws emerge from rows and rows of cages, longing for any kind of human interaction.

They are looking for just a pat on the head or a scratch under the chin. Some of the more fearful animals stand in the corner shaking, not yet acclimated to their strange new surroundings.

Every pet that comes through the door is treated individually to assess their needs and help them cope with their new environment.

“Lots of treats and lots of encouragement,” said Caitlin Tomlinson, Associate Director of Shelter Operations for the Rescue League. “We have dedicated staff working with these animals and spending one-on-one time, sitting at the front of their cage and feeding them treats or taking them out and running that energy out.”

The ARL also has certified behaviorist on staff and an extensive foster care network in place.

“If we have any animal that is not doing super well…we have some shy cats…they need to go into a [foster] home for a few weeks to settle in so we can see what they are really like, because they are not showing us their true behavior in the shelter,” Tomlinson said.

All of the animals that come in receive full vetting including routine spay/neuter and dental checkups. Tomlinson said that should they receive an animal with serious injuries they are sent to an emergency facility.

“We don’t want any animals suffering,” she said.

Cats and dogs are not the only residents at the shelter — it is also a temporary home to bunnies, birds and farm animals such as roosters, goats and as well.

Goats at the Animal Rescue League of Boston. (Photo Credit: Kim Tunnicliffe/WBZ NewsRadio 1030)

Some of the animals that enter the shelter are in rough shape. They have been mistreated or lived out on the streets most of their lives.

The League does its best to help these animals recover and find their forever homes, but not every story has a happy ending.

Some do not survive or have to be humanely euthanized. This can take a toll on the staff and some of them suffer from bouts of compassion fatigue.

“Only people who work in your kind line of work understand what you do,” said Tomlinson.

She says she tries to focus on the fact that these sad, scared animals passed away in the arms of shelter staff, finally feeling love for the first time in their lives.

For more information about The Animal Rescue League of Boston, visit. www.arlboston.org or the WBZ Cares section on the CBSBoston.com website during the month of March.

BOSTON (CBS) – Each month, WBZ Cares highlights a worthy non-profit organization, and tells the story of what that organization does for the community. This month’s organization, The Animal Rescue League of Boston, has been working tirelessly for more than a century to rescue and care for animals in need, and now boasts three shelter locations.

Besides rescuing and caring for these animals, this welfare organization also takes their mission on the road by providing community outreach to pet owners and communities in need through their mobile vet clinic.

Inside a truck that hard to miss, plastered with larger than life images of dogs and cats, the rescue league’s mobile surgery unit called “The Spay Waggin,” offers low-cost spay and neuter surgeries.

Mainly serving the communities of the South Shore, South Coast and Cape Cod, it performs nearly 30-40 surgeries daily according to veterinarian Kyle Quigley. In 2016, nearly 4,500 surgeries were performed.

Quigley said that the mobile unit also provides pet owners who are struggling financially with additional vet care for their dogs and cats.

“We offer them exams, vaccines, sometimes flee treatment, parasite treatments, testing’s for viral diseases and heart worm disease,” he said.

Quigley says the Spay Waggin’ helps the Animal Rescue League of Boston serve out its core mission: “To keep animals safe and healthy in their homes and habitat.”

In addition to the mobile surgery unit, The Animal Rescue League recently opened the Community Surgical Clinic at its Dedham, MA campus. The clinic offers low cost veterinary services to small animal shelters in Massachusetts that don’t have a lot of resources.

“Providing spay and neuter services to local shelter and rescue groups as well as animal control officers. So for the animals in their care we will provide spay and neuter at a reduced cost, as well as some other surgeries,” said Cheryl Traversi, Associate Director of Community Services.

She says this clinic is a way for the Animal Rescue League to give back to the community.

“We’re actually an animal welfare organization,” she said. “So this is a way for us to serve our community. A lot of the groups that we work with are smaller and so their access to low cost surgery is very important. For them to be able to run their program and have the most animals go through their systems.”

For more information about The Animal Rescue League of Boston, visit. www.arlboston.org or the WBZ Cares section on the CBSBoston.com website during the month of March.

BOSTON (CBS) – Each month, WBZ Cares highlights a worthy non-profit organization, and tells the story of what that organization does for the community. This month’s organization, The Animal Rescue League of Boston, has been working tirelessly for more than a century to rescue and care for animals in need, and now boasts three shelter locations.

Besides rescuing and caring for these animals, this welfare organization also deals with animal cruelty and neglect through innovative community programs, public advocacy, and police investigations.

For nearly 42 years he’s been on the job, Lt. Alan Borgal, Director of Law Enforcement for the Animal Rescue League has seen it all.

“Dog with no shelter or it could be a severe case of beating a dog, we can get them from police departments, citizens, animal control officers, veterinary clinics,” he said.

Licensed by the Commonwealth as a Special Police Officer he carries a firearm, but he’s never had to use it.

In his role as an advocate for animal rights, Borgel continuously reminds pet and livestock owners that animal cruelty is a felony in Massachusetts, punishable by up to 7 years in prison. He says animal cruelty includes long-term neglect.

“Didn’t provide proper water or proper food, proper shelter or protection from the weather,” he said.

Many of the biggest cases he has seen are those who own livestock —  such as cows.

“There might be dairy cows out in the field and might not have access to shelter. They actually don’t do that well in the winter, they need more than a tree line, they need a three sided shelter.”

The Animal Rescue League’s officers also deal with a lot of cases of dog owners being reported by neighbors or concerned citizens for leaving their pets out in the extreme cold or heat for too long.

“We do a lot of calls just for education. [We] explain to them ‘that shelter for that dog might work in the summer but it doesn’t work in the winter,” he said.

“The worst thing I see is people [who] go to work, dog goes outside in the freezing cold at 8 or 9 in the morning and they [dog owner] don’t get home until 7 at night.”  He often explains to pet owners that in order to have an outside dog, they must be acclimated to the cold.

“Pitbull dogs or short haired dogs…they don’t’ do well in the cold,” he said.

Under state law, dogs must be brought in from outside between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. In extreme cases of abuse or cruelty, Borgal says citizen witnesses are an integral part of their investigations.

“A little different than a regular police officer, my victims don’t talk, they can’t tell me what happened. We rely a lot on witnesses but the forensic exam of the animal is so important to find those injuries both new and old.”

Borgal urges pet owners who don’t want their animals anymore to do the humane thing and drop them off at a shelter.

“Cruelly abandoning an animal is a felony in Massachusetts and we catch a lot of people and they will be prosecuted.”

For more information about The Animal Rescue League of Boston, visit. www.arlboston.org or the WBZ Cares section on the CBSBoston.com website during the month of March.

BOSTON (CBS) – Each month, WBZ Cares highlights a worthy non-profit organization and tells the story of what that organization does for the community. This month’s organization, The Animal Rescue League of Boston, has been working tirelessly for more than a century to rescue and care for animals in need, and now boasts three shelter locations.

There’s quite an expansive volunteer network in place that helps socialize shy and fearful animals and get them adopted into their forever homes. The League’s volunteer base has grown by leaps and bounds over the years.

“There’s 520 [volunteers] now yeah, there is a lot of them,” said Debbie Vogel, Associate Director of Volunteer Services at the Rescue League.

She says every new volunteer coming in takes part in a training program that includes learning how to care for cats and dogs at three behavior levels, ranging from level 1 (extremely friendly pets) to level 3 (the extremely fearful).

“If they wanted to move on…really start with working on some of the behavior plans with some of the dogs that really need it,  they could go through level three or mod-squad training to learn how to really change the behaviors of how to change these dogs and make them much more adoptable, and much more family friendly,” she said.

Vogel says volunteers know they are making a difference in the lives of the animals they touch.

“Maybe we’re the first person that was ever kind to this animal,” she said. “Or maybe we’re the person that turned around so that this animal can move from the back to the adoption center. And there is a lot of pride in that, and they put a lot of effort into it.”

Volunteer Betsy Jones works with shy and fearful cats.

She said her job involves gaining their trust through talking to them, reading body language, getting them used to human touch, treats, and play–and just finding out what makes them comfortable.

“Some of them have never even experienced any human interaction, so you just want to slowly introduce yourself and sometimes it takes a while, but most of them get there.” Jones said.

Jones admits the work is not always easy to do.

“I have gotten my war wounds,” she said.

She says the temporary pain is worth the long-term gain.

“You know, we help the ones we can,” she said. “Seeing an animal who’s gone from being so scared to being so trusting, doing an 180, there are just no words to describe it.”

The goal is to ensure every animal finds a home.

For more information about The Animal Rescue League of Boston, visit. <a href=”http://www.arlboston.org”>www.arlboston.org</a> or the <a href=”http://www.cbsboston.com/wbzcares”>WBZ Cares section</a> on the CBSBoston.com website during the month of March.

BOSTON (CBS) — As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start to summer, many pet owners will be hitting the roads.

Dr. Edward Schettino, Director of Veterinary Medical Services at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, advises travelers bringing their furry companions along to plan accordingly and not leave them alone in the hot weather inside or outside the car at any time.

Rule of thumb:  “Plan for your pet as you would plan for yourself.”

“You need to make sure that you have the proper itinerary where you are able to stop, take your pet out of the car,” he said. “Have your pet take a walk, fresh water, fresh food. Also planning your trip where you’re not leaving your pet in your car unattended – it is very, very important,” he said.

Leaving pets unattended in a vehicle is the most common cause of deadly heat strokes among pets, according to Schettino. Even when outdoor temperatures are just 70 degrees, it can get as high as 100 in a car in a matter of minutes.  Even if the windows are open “just a little bit,” he said.

“Pets do not sweat the way people do to alleviate the heat, they can’t get out,” Schettino said.

“People believe that they are doing nothing wrong. They are running inside the shop getting a coffee. The weather is nice outside it is 60, 70, or 80 degrees; they don’t feel hot, their pets are out with them for the day. They feel that everything is wonderful. They go inside the store — they are delayed and they come back to a fatal experience, which is bad” he said.

In August of 2016, Gov. Charlie Baker signed a bill that protects pets left in hot cars and Good Samaritans who break them out to save them.

The fine can be up to $500 for anyone who neglect animals in hot cars. The law also places restrictions on owners leaving dogs tethered in extreme weather.

If a passerby happens to see an animal in a hot car, Schettino offers the following tips to help save a pet.

“First, they can look to see if the owner is around ask anybody that’s around: ‘Do you know who owns this car?’ If they are unable to find the person who owns that car or drives that car with the pet inside, they should contact the police department.  If the police department doesn’t respond and it’s a fatal situation, people can actually break into that car to save that pet’s life as long as they follow those steps.”

Schettino says when in doubt, leave your pet at home.

“There’s plenty of people and services that can take care of your pet,” he said.

BOSTON (CBS) – Looking to adopt a dog?

Ten puppies rescued in Puerto Rico arrived at Logan Airport Thursday.

The dogs were found abandoned in the streets.

They’re now with the Animal Rescue League of Boston and will be ready for adoption starting Tuesday, as soon as they clear medical screening.

One of the rescued puppies from Puerto Rico (WBZ)

The ARL is working with All Sato Rescue, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing the number of abandoned dogs in Puerto Rico.

Adoption information can be found here.

RANDOLPH (CBS) — A dumpster-diving squirrel had to be helped after getting his head stuck in a hole, the Animal Rescue League of Boston said.

(Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The organization tweeted out photos showing the squirrel’s head stuck in a Randolph dumpster Thursday morning.

(Animal Rescue League of Boston)

They said they carefully removed him from the hole using soap to make him more slippery, and took him to the New England Wildlife Center in Weymouth.

WOBURN (CBS) — The staff of the Animal Rescue League are no strangers to strange calls–so they knew just what to do when a raccoon got his head stuck in a plastic jar Thursday.

The ARL got a call from Woburn’s animal control officer saying the critter had panicked and climbed a tree.

The raccoon was up a tree with a jar stuck on his head. (Animal Rescue League of Boston)

“He appeared to be healthy and uninjured, but the jar posed a number of dangers—induced panic from the enclosed space, inability to eat or see, and the possibility of falling out of the tree,” the ARL wrote in a release.

They decided they had to go up 25 feet into the tree to get him, rather than wait for him to come down.

ARL Senior Rescue Agent Mike Brammer removed the jar. (Animal Rescue League of Boston)

ARL Senior Rescue Agent Mike Brammer “essentially had to play ring toss” with the jar, using an 11-foot pole to remove it from the animal’s head.

The jar came off–and the raccoon never even had to come down from the tree.

ROXBURY (CBS) – Lou Lou and Ladybug are two lucky kittens.

The five-week-old kittens were rescued by a UPS driver who was making deliveries right before a brutal blizzard blew into the region.

(Animal Rescue League photo)

The driver noticed the kittens, both female, clawing at a Roxbury doorstep in a desperate effort to get out of the cold.

The driver then called the Animal Rescue League, which responded and brought the kittens to its Dedham shelter.

Lou Lou and Ladybug were thin, dehydrated, cold, and hungry. The kittens are being treated for upper respiratory infections, shelter officials said.

The kittens will spend a few weeks in foster care to heal and put on some weight before they are available for adoption into a loving home, officials said.

NEEDHAM (CBS) — A muskrat who found himself in a pickle is probably thankful the Animal Rescue League of Boston stepped in to help.

The Needham rodent found himself stuck upside down in the bottom of a chain link fence over the weekend.

“It took a little finesse but ARL Rescue Services was able to get him free,” the organization tweeted.

“It’s likely he was found upside down because he fiercely tried to free himself when he got stuck and in a panic got himself turned around,” the ARL told WBZ-TV.

They added that the animal “wasn’t exactly cooperative.”

He was not hurt and after he was rescued he ran away.

ROCHESTER (CBS) – It’s a sight even veteran eyes at the Animal Rescue League haven’t seen too often. Two-year-old Bentley, a pitbull mix, so emaciated his ribs and spine are showing. His companion, a nine-year-old mastiff named Ace, is in better condition but still malnourished.

“It’s shocking, when I saw them for the first time I was shocked,” ARL spokesman Michael DeFina.

The dogs were rescued from a home in Rochester on Wednesday, their conditions even worse just two days ago. They were noticed through the front door by an alert Eversource worker who was at the home to shut off the utilities because the owner was moving.

“It broke my heart,” said Susan Sweeney of Eversource. “The poor dogs were so happy to see somebody which made me believe they were just left there.”

Sweeney says when she went to the door, she could see the dogs in a frail state. Happy to see her.

Bentley, a 2-year-old pitbull mix, was found emaciated inside a vacant house. (Rochester Police Department photo)

“I looked in and he was very friendly,” Sweeney said. “He was wagging his tail.”

She immediately called police.

“We noticed inside of the house was full of animal waste, a lot of dog urine and feces. There were a couple of small bowls but no food or water was available,” said Rochester police Sergeant Robert Small.

Police were able to track down the owner 33-year-old Tyrone Mendes, who they say admitted he had fallen on hard times, the dogs were neglected as a result.

Tyrone Mendes faces animal cruelty charges. (Rochester Police Department photo)

“He said he didn’t have money to take care of the dogs properly. It’s too bad he hadn’t reached out for help,” said Sgt. Small.

Bentley weighs only 20 pounds, though rescuers say this time last year he was 30 pounds heavier, an indication of the trauma he has suffered. There was also scarring on his face and around the ears which they believe is the result of fighting over scraps of food with Ace.

While Mendes faces animal cruelty charges, the dogs face more than malnourishment. “When they came here they had a lot of fear and anxiety,” said DeFina.

The goal now is to ease that fear, restore the dogs to health, and find them loving new owners.

Mendes will be summonsed to court at a later date to face the charges.

WBZ-TV’s Beth Germano and Gary Brode contributed to this report.

QUINCY (CBS) — Most Quincy residents, including some of the animals, have enough of the snow.

Two skunks recently trapped inside a bulkhead in Quincy for days needed to be rescued by the Boston Animal Rescue League (ARL).

Two skunks stuck in a bulkhead in Quincy (Photo Courtesy: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The animals were “agitated and feisty,” according to the ARL.

A skunk stuck in a bulkhead is rescued (Photo Courtesy: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

They tweeted, “with some careful maneuvering ARL Rescue Services were able to get them out and on their way safely.”

Despite their good intentions, the ARL agents could not avoid being sprayed.

BURLINGTON (CBS) – A lucky squirrel has a new lease on life after being rescued from a dumpster drain.

A crew from the Animal Rescue League of Boston rescued the squirrel after its head became stuck in the drain for more than 20 hours. It is now being treated for unspecified injuries.

A squirrel is rescued after being stuck for hours in a dumpster drain. (Photo: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The squirrel was “tired and skin raw from trying to wriggle free,” the ARL tweeted. 

The squirrel was freed after being stuck for several hours. (Photo: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The League reminded people to never slather an animal that is stuck with oils in an attempt to rescue it.

People should instead call animal control or an animal rescue group such as the ARL.

BOSTON (CBS) – Three adoptable pit bulls from the Animal Rescue League of Boston were featured this week on Pet Parade.

Gronk. (WBZ-TV)

The first one was Gronk, a five-year-old pit bull mix.  He’s been with the agency for awhile, possibly because people are intimidated by his size, a solid 70 pounds, but he’s very friendly and lovable.  He also loves exercise.

Polly. (WBZ-TV)

Polly is a one-year old, who is “chill” and loves playing with her toys. Their owner returned her because they had to move.

Both dogs are crate trained.

Wildebeest. (WBZ-TV)

Wildebeest is a friendly, sweet and young pit bull mix who came to the agency as a stray. He also enjoys other dogs and exercise.

For more information, visit the arlboston.org or their locations in the South End, Dedham or Brewster.

BOSTON (CBS) – If you’re looking to add a four-legged friend to your family, three dogs up for adoption through Animal Rescue League of Boston could be perfect for you.

Siblings Toby and Zoey visited WBZ-TV’s Pet Parade this week, along with Yago.

Toby and Zoey are 9-year-old puggles but you would never guess that’s their age. They love people and are content to go on long walks or just hang out and watch TV.

Toby and Zoey from Animal Rescue League of Boston. (WBZ-TV

The pair is up for adoption because their original owner died. Though they are bonded, Animal Rescue League is considering allowing them to be adopted separately.

Yago is a pit bill mix. He is a 3-year-old stray who is sweet, energetic, and loves to see other dogs.

Yago is up for adoption. (WBZ-TV)

A home with no cats would be best for Yago, who can go on long walks and loves toys. He is described as full of life an energy.

For more information on these dogs and other animals, visit the Animal Rescue League of Boston website.

MALDEN (CBS) – A kitten is suffering no ill effects after being abandoned on the side of Hawthorne Street in Malden on Wednesday.

An MBTA driver spotted a sealed cardboard box with holed punched into the sides on Wednesday afternoon. Inside, the driver found a two-month-old female kitten.

@MaldenPDChief meets Feline Officer Millie who was rescued by Malden PD this week. She was found abandoned in a box on a street here in the city. we are happy to report she is doing excellent. For more on this story see our @YouTube channel pic.twitter.com/6OcLHSvVo0

— Malden Police (@MaldenPolice) July 18, 2019

The kitten is in good health and is not suffering heat-related problems, despite being abandoned in Wednesday’s hot and humid weather.

However, the Malden Police Department and the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Law Enforcement Department is seeking the public’s help to find out who is responsible for abandoning the kitten – a crime in Massachusetts punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Anyone with information on this case should call Malden Animal Control at 781-397-7171, ext. 1302, or ARL Law Enforcement at 617-426-9170.

BOSTON (CBS) – With temperatures expected to reach the mid-90s on Tuesday, pet owners in Massachusetts are being reminded that it’s against the law to leave dogs tethered outside during a heat advisory.

The Animal Rescue League said in a press release that many people may not be aware that the laws about tethering changed in 2016.

The new regulations state “A person shall not leave a dog outside when a weather advisory, warning, or watch is issued by a local, state, or federal authority, or when outside environmental conditions including, but not limited to, extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, snow, or hail pose an adverse risk to the health or safety of the dog, unless the tethering is for not more than 15 minutes.”

Officers with the ARL or the MSPCA can issue a $50 fine for the first offense, $100 for a second offense and $300 and possible loss of ownership for subsequent offenses.

“This stature is important on a variety of fronts,” ARL Law Enforcement Director Lt. Alan Borgal said in a statement. “Tethering a dog in these conditions for hours on end is cruel. What if the dog knocks his water bowl over? Being in the extreme heat leads to heat stroke or dehydration very quickly. Tethering a dog can also cause physical harm and mental distress. These laws are in place to protect animals, and to ensure that they are being taken care of properly.”

(WBZ-TV Graphic)

A heat advisory is in effect for several counties until 8 p.m. Tuesday.

BOSTON (CBS) — A young puppy who recently arrived at the Animal Rescue League of Boston has a long road ahead of recovery ahead.

Eight-month-old Charlotte was lost and on her own for about a month. “It’s miraculous she even survived,” said the ARL.

She was was severely underweight when she arrived, weighing only about half of what she should. She will also need surgery to fix a fracture in her leg.

Eight-month-old Charlotte is recovering at the Animal Rescue League of Boston (WBZ-TV)

“Charlotte was originally transported from a rescue group in Alabama, but her former owner picked her up at a parking lot in Connecticut just over the Massachusetts border – she was lost just 4 hours after being adopted,” said the ARL.

The organization expects it will take two months for Charlotte to recover from the surgery. In the meantime, she remains very skittish around people.

Edward Schettino of the ARL said, “We don’t know what happened when she was lost for 30 days but she’s afraid of a lot of people. We’re working intensively with her with our behavior management team in order to get her a little more accustomed to people, realizing that people aren’t so bad and she’s definitely coming around.”

Taking care of Charlotte has already cost the ARL thousands, they said. The organization is hoping donations from the public will help cover some of her medical fees.

BOSTON (CBS) — Middleboro police filed animal cruelty charges against a commercial kennel owner Thursday over the unsanitary conditions the Animal Rescue League of Boston says they rescued two dozen animals from last month.

Michael Perette, a Middleboro resident, faces five felony animal cruelty charges, as well as 23 misdemeanor neglect and abuse charges. The charges stem from a Sept. 24 incident during which the organization seized 24 animals from the in-home kennel and breeding business, Peretti Cane Corso.

Dogs, birds, a donkey and a peacock were among the animals removed from the kennel facility, which animal control officers described as “dangerous” for the animals. They said the animals had been subject to bad conditions for a long time, and though they were not seriously injured, they also were not in good condition.

A dog taken from a kennel in Middleboro who is now being cared for by the Animal Rescue League (WBZ-TV)

According to the organization, they and other shelters are still caring for the animals and that they are doing well. They say the animals are not currently up for adoption due to trauma caused by their previous surroundings.

Perette is still allowed to operate his business and is still in possession of almost two dozen animals. His arraignment is scheduled for Dec. 11.

BOSTON (CBS) – Two dogs up for adoption through Animal Rescue League of Boston visited WBZ-TV’s Pet Parade this week.

Pantera is a 2-year-old who is sweet and friendly. Though this pup is a bit reactive when unleashed, Pantera is ultimately friendly with other dogs.

Pantera. (WBZ-TV)

This would be a great dog for anyone interested in a pet that would be good on hikes and runs, or just hanging out at home.

Luigi, described lovingly as an “old man,” is an 8-year-old Chihuahua mix with some medical issues that are being treated.

Luigi. (WBZ-TV)

He’s sweet, friendly and nice, and is a “typical Chihuahua.” Though he has had some issues in the past, Luigi would be a good dog for someone who wants to put in the time and effort to maintain his health.

For more information, visit the Animal Rescue League of Boston website.

DEDHAM (CBS) — A stray cat that was found frozen to a shipping container in Dedham is now recovering at the Animal Rescue League of Boston. The cat, named Schooner, was found early last Wednesday, stuck to a container outside TGI Friday’s along Providence Highway.

“It’s likely that Schooner’s fur was wet and with bitter cold and real-feel temperatures well below freezing, once the cat came in contact with the container he was immediately stuck. It’s unknown how long the cat was frozen to the container,” said the ARL.

Schooner did not have hypothermia but was very thin, dehydrated, and had the “typical bumps and bruises of living outdoors,” including a fractured tooth.

Schooner was found frozen to a shipping container in Dedham (Photo Via Animal Rescue League of Boston)

After Schooner is neutered, his tooth is fixed, and he gains some more weight in a foster home, he will be ready for adoption.

WELLESLEY (CBS) – A “distressed beaver” was rescued Thursday afternoon from a spot on the Charles River where he had likely been trapped for four days.

The beaver had reportedly been seen in the same location below a footbridge over the Cordingly Dam Fish Passage since Sunday, according to the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

He was trapped “right at the edge of the rushing water,” in a potentially dangerous situation for both the beaver and his rescuers.

The beaver is lifted to safety (via ARL.)

The ARL assisted Wellesley Animal Control to corral the beaver with two nets and raise him to the surface of the footbridge — while a crowd of onlookers watched.

The rescuers were able to coax the beaver into a carrier and then transported him to a wildlife rehabilitation center. He did not appear to be injured but is likely malnourished.

Officers coax the beaver into a carrier (via ARL.)

EDGARTOWN (CBS) – A Martha’s Vineyard cat breeder is facing felony animal cruelty charges after police removed 65 cats from her property Wednesday.

The building where the cats were kept was described as too hot and having an overwhelming odor of animal waste. (Photo credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Law Enforcement Unity inspected the property in 2019 after complaints of sick cats being sold off the island surfaced. Edgartown Animal Control received a similar complaint in June.

Sixty-five cats were removed from an Edgartown home Wednesday. (Photo credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

On Wednesday, ARL law enforcement, Edgartown Police, Edgartown Animal Control and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources executed a search warrant at the home of Jennifer Winsper, 48. The ARL said in a statement that it found conditions in the building where the cats were kept had poor air quality, an “overwhelming” odor of animal waste and was very hot.

The cats will likely need weeks of veterinary care and treatment, the ARL said.

BOSTON (CBS) — A dog that needed life-saving surgery after eating paper masks will soon be up for adoption in Boston. Local animal groups are using the example as an opportunity to remind everyone that PPE should be thrown away safely so animals won’t get hurt.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston is caring for “Gibbs” who was found in an abandoned home with other dogs. X-rays showed nose wires from two discarded paper masks were creating a “life-threatening blockage” and he received surgery just in time.

Gibbs the dog ate paper masks (Photo credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

The ARL says Gibbs is recovering well and will be up for adoption sometime next week once he gains more weight.

The ARL is joining the Massachusetts Veterinary Medication Association and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources in urging everyone to properly dispose of PPE like masks and gloves.

“Masks can smell like food and might attract pets and wildlife,” the MVMA said in a statment. “Animals that ingest these items can experience stomach upset, blockages, or worse.”

PPE should be thrown away in a covered waste container to protect animals.

RANDOLPH (CBS) – The last of 24 dogs seized from a Randolph home during a case of alleged animal cruelty is now up for adoption.

Police seized four dogs and 20 puppies from a house on Bossi Ave. in August. The homeowner is facing 24 animal cruelty charges.

Benjamin, one of 24 dogs seized from a Randolph home, is up for adoption. (Image Credit: Animal Rescue League of Boston)

All of the animals have found new homes, except one. Benjamin, a 2-year-old pit bull-type dog, is up for adoption through Animal Rescue League of Boston.

“When Benjamin arrived at ARL, staff noted that while extremely friendly, the young dog lacked socialization, focus, and basic manners. He was excitable, jumpy, mouthy, and reactive to walking on a leash,” ARL spokesman Mike DeFina said. “Over the past two months, ARL’s behavioral staff and volunteers have worked extensively with Benjamin, and he has made tremendous strides maintaining focus and working on his manners.”

Once Benjamin is adopted, the Animal Rescue League said it is committed to providing behavioral advice to his new family.

“I’m so happy to see that almost all of the dogs in this case have been adopted and are in homes where they will receive the care and love they need,” Randolph Police Chief Anthony Marag said. “Hopefully Benjamin finds his forever home soon and we can a fully happy ending in this case.”

Click here for more information on Benjamin.

DEDHAM (CBS) — A not-so-little pig that has worked through some mental health issues is looking for a forever home.

Violet is 4 years old and weighs 120 pounds. She came to the Animal Rescue League’s Dedham care center in August after being raised as a house pet by a family that was no longer able to keep her.

The ARL says Violet was set up in a comfortable outdoor space, but struggled to adjust.

“During feeding or enrichment time, Violet would charge, bark or nip at the ARL staff member of volunteer in the paddock, and not allow them to leave,” the ARL said. “ARL consulted an outside pig expert to better understand the behaviors Violet was displaying and to formulate a plan to curb said behaviors.”

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It was determined that Violet was “exhibiting signs of depression, and fearful about being alone.” Staff taught her a “back-up” cue to help the pig learn she needed to give space to those around her.

“Pigs are incredibly intelligent, and learning this cue has positively altered Violet’s behavior and she is once again ready to find her new home,” the ARL said.

Click here to learn more about adopting Violet.

BOSTON (CBS) — The Animal Rescue League of Boston has taken dozens of cats that needed to be rescued from a South Shore home. The ARL said a woman called asking for help because she had too many cats to deal with.

At first, 56 cats were surrendered. A week later, crews returned to collect the rest, taking in 67 cats in all.

“On the day the cats were removed, the caregiver helped tremendously – they were able to get the cats into a line with food and then simply placed them into the carriers. This made the process quicker, and certainly helped limit the stress for both the animals and caretaker,” said a statement from the ARL.

Most of the cats were healthy.

One cat was returned to the woman.

“Sometimes with these situations overcrowding can happen, especially if a person doesn’t have the availability to get their cats spayed and neutered. They can multiply at a rate that can become a little hard to control for people,” explained ARL Control Officer Paul Luongo.

The ARL said it is willing and able to help anyone who feels overwhelmed and unable to properly care for their animals.

DEDHAM (CBS) — A five-year-old pot-bellied pig named Violet is heading to her new home in Virginia after she was finally adopted.

Violet has been at the Animal Rescue League’s Dedham Care Center for the past seven months.

Like many pot-bellied pigs, Violet was adorable when she was small. As she grew, her initial family could no longer take care of her.

A Virginia woman saw WBZ-TV’s story about Violet’s plight and decided to give her a new home.

“She was a pot-bellied pig that was clearly adored, she’s got great personality, and so when I saw her post I realized she’s been here for so long. Everybody wants a cute little pet pig but I think she’s the perfect pig at almost five-years-old for us,” said Joan Fuller, who is adopting the pig.

Violet will be living on a Virginia farm surrounded by other animals from here on out.