Worcester Animal Rescue League
Our Mission
At the Worcester Animal Rescue League (WARL), we believe that every animal deserves a chance to find a loving home. Our mission is to provide compassion to every being that turns to us for help, offering vital care for animals while providing respect and resources for their human counterparts.
A Legacy of Compassion
Founded in 1912 by a dedicated group of women in Worcester, our organization began with a simple yet powerful goal: to save overworked farm horses and protect stray cats and dogs. For over 110 years, we have remained committed to this cause, evolving to serve the changing needs of animals throughout Central Massachusetts from our long-standing facility on Holden Street.
Our Care Model
As a limited-intake shelter, we are able to provide high-quality, focused attention to every animal in our care. Our facility features 96 dog and 41 cat kennels, allowing us to ensure that space and time limits are not placed on our adoptable residents. We pride ourselves on acting as both caretakers for our animals and educators for our community.
Your Partner in Adoption
We believe that the best relationships begin with a personal connection, which is why we encourage prospective adopters to meet our animals in person during our walk-in hours. Our experienced staff is here to guide you through the process, helping you find the perfect match for your lifestyle. We provide comprehensive support, including resources and tips, to ensure that adoption is a successful and joyful experience for you and your new companion.
Join Our Mission
Are you ready to gain a new friend? We invite you to explore our available dogs and cats or visit us at our Worcester shelter to meet our residents in person. Whether you choose to adopt, volunteer, or support us through a donation, your involvement makes a life-changing impact on the animals who need it most.
- Compassionate and dedicated staff
- Easy adoption process
- Rigid adoption vetting policies
10/22 - 'Love Is Blind: Boston' Cast Members Kick Off Fee-Free Shelter Dog Adoption Event
The MSPCA said five coalition shelter members will offer fee-free adoptions this weekend to clear room for new rescues.
9/26 - Pals for paws: Volunteers lend heart, hands to Worcester animal shelter
From October 2025 to October 2026, more than 900 animals have found new homes through the shelter.
9/24 - Fee-Free Shelter Dog Adoption Weekend Aims To Find 100 Pups Forever Homes
MSPCA-Angell said shelter space is short with dog adoptions down 19 percent year over year.
8/19 - 'Sunshine' Could Brighten Your Forever Home During 'Clear The Shelters' Weekend
Dogs age 1 and older will be available with waived fees at Salem and other Massachusetts shelters Aug. 21-23.
7/21 - MSPCA-Angell, partners waiving some dog adoption fees this weekend
Fee-free dog adoptions return this weekend as Massachusetts shelters try to help adult dogs find homes faster.
7/6 - MSPCA-Angell starts in-house vet program at TJO in Springfield
MSPCA-Angell has partnered with Thomas J. O’Connor Adoption Center to establish an in-house veterinary program.
