At Herb Chambers our commitment to making a difference is ongoing. Our significant market presence allows us to amplify the visibility of the causes we support, reaching a wider audience and making a greater impact. We recently had the honor of supporting our long-term partner (ARL) the Animal Rescue League. A key example of our mission.
For 125 years, the Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Boston has been a steadfast advocate for animals, ensuring their safety and health both in homes and out of shelters. Founded in 1899 by Anna Harris Smith, a social worker moved by the mistreatment of working horses and th
e plight of stray animals, ARL's mission has always extended beyond immediate rescue. Anna's belief in humane education transformed ARL into a model for animal rescue organizations nationwide.
Today, ARL continues to honor Anna's legacy, guided by her belief in the intersection of animal welfare and human well-being. As more animals enter shelters and pet ownership becomes increasingly challenging, ARL remains dedicated to being a champion for animals and a resource for their caregivers.
We were delighted to attend ARL’s "Too Hot for Spot" event and help bring crucial awareness to an issue that is often overlooked. "Too Hot for Spot" highlights the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars. Even when temperatures are below 80 degrees, pets can suffer from heat stroke as they cannot cool their bodies as efficiently as humans. ARL urges pet owners to keep their animals safe by leaving them in cool, temperature-regulated environments whenever possible and ensuring they have access to shade, airflow, and cold water if they must be outdoors. Exercise should be limited to cooler parts of the day, and pets should never be left alone in parked cars, even with air conditioning or cracked windows. If an animal is in distress, contact local Animal Control or the Police Department immediately.
This compelling message and the work of ARL’s Advocacy Department led to the "Too Hot for Spot" campaign becoming Massachusetts law in November 2016. Under this law, first responders, including Animal Control Officers, law enforcement officials, and firefighters, can enter vehicles to rescue animals in danger after attempting to locate the vehicle’s owner. The law ensures the safety of pets from extreme heat or cold and educates citizens about the deadly consequences of heat stroke.