Animal Care and Control

The Animal Care and Control division offers low-cost pet wellness care. They enforce legal ordinances and laws governing animals. The division inspects licensed animal kennels, veterinary hospitals, pet groomers, and special animal exhibitions. They also investigate cases of animal abuse.

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Boston Animal Care and Control Shelter

The City also runs its own Animal Shelter in Roslindale staffed by a full-time veterinarian. Adoption hours for the shelter are Tuesday, through Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call 617-635-1800 for adoption information. Would you like to support our low-cost animal wellness and adoption programs? Tax-deductible donations can be mailed directly to the shelter at 26 Mahler Road, Roslindale, MA, 02131. Learn more about the shelter.

Officers are on call after hours to respond to emergencies. Please call 3-1-1 or 617-635-4500 if you need help.

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Upcoming events

Upcoming events
Dog licensing and low-cost rabies clinic - East Boston
On Apr 1

Apr 1
Dog licensing and low-cost rabies clinic - Charlestown
On Apr 15

Apr 15
Dog licensing and low-cost rabies clinic - Jamaica Plain
On Apr 29

Apr 29
Dog licensing and low-cost rabies clinic - South Boston
On May 13

May 13
Dog licensing and low-cost rabies clinic - Roxbury
On Jun 3

Jun 3

Help for pet owners

New pet owner, or just looking for tips?

Learn how to get your dog licensed, keep your pets healthy, and much more.

Dogs and Boston Parks

We have information about dog recreation spaces, and our rules and regulations regarding your beloved pets.
How to License Your Dog

If you own a dog in the City, you must get a license for them.
Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Safe

Learn about ways to care for your pet, and find out about common illnesses.
Pet Behavior Tips

We have some behavior tips from the American Humane Association.
Rule and Regulations for Owning a Pet

There are several rules for owning a pet in the City of Boston.

Animal Care and Control Shelter

We are located in Roslindale, halfway between the Forest Hills MBTA Station and Roslindale Square off of Washington Street. You can find pets available for adoption on Petfinder.

Shelter information
Pet Foster Parent Program

Wildlife in the City

Wildlife
It's not unusual to find wild animals in Boston.

We have some advice on what to do when you come across these creatures.

Wildlife problems and solutions

The City is full of wildlife that coexists with residents.
Finding baby birds

Learn what to do if you see a baby bird on the ground.
Removing bats from your home

During the warm weather, bats tend to make their way into resident’s homes.
Rabies information

Learn about the disease, and how you can protect yourself and pets from it.

More resources

More resources
2021 Year in Review (Animal Control Activities)
2021 Year in Review (Pet Owner Support)
2021 Year in Review (Shelter Activities)
Animal cruelty and neglect information
Animal Rescue League-Boston
Get tips on finding a lost pet
Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Parks and Recreation
Petfinder.com

Animal Care and Control director

Meet the director
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