Health & Fitness
Community Thanked For Support of Shelter’s Dog Play Yard Renovation
K-9 Grass Coming Soon to Animal Rescue League of Boston’s South End Shelter
Thanks to substantial support from the local community, the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) application for permission to install K-9 grass in its Boston shelter’s play yard was unanimously approved by the South End Landmarks Commission last month. This renovation will greatly improve the appearance of the yard, located at the intersection of Tremont and Herald Streets in Boston’s South End, and enhance the comfort of the shelter and visiting dogs that use it.The application sailed through on both its merits and the overwhelming support expressed by Boston Mayor Marty Walsh’s office and South End neighbors. Board members, volunteers, and local businesses including Berkeley Perk, Rome’s Pizza, Emelio’s Pizza, Billy’s Lunch Café and the Berkeley Barber Shop worked to collect over 430 signatures expressing support for the project.
“I am very grateful for the above and beyond effort here; it will mean so much to ARL and dogs in our care,” said ARL president, Mary Nee.
The play yard provides critical opportunities for exercise and interaction among the shelter dogs, and is also open for neighborhood dogs to use during certain hours.
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In 2013, the ARL increased the welcoming atmosphere of the play yard by unveiling a 12-foot tall stainless steel and bronze sculpture designed by Medford-based artist David Phillips and titled “Dancing with Spheres” at a standing-room only event at the ARL’s Boston shelter. ARL supporter and retired art teacher Tony Lopes (dec.) commissioned the sculpture. Installing the K-9 grass will complement the sculpture’s presence in the neighborhood.
The grass will be installed this summer. Visit arlboston.org for photos and project updates.