Park Street Station Hosts Dog Event Thursday

Commuters passing through Park Street Station this Thursday will find the platform filled with dogs. The MBTA and the Animal Rescue League of Boston have scheduled a two-hour event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on October 29. The station will be renamed Bark Street Station for the afternoon. Riders and the general public are invited to meet the animals on site.

The event supports October, which is designated as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. Phillip Eng, the Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager, said the partnership aims to bring fun to the rider community while supporting the shelter's work. Eng invited everyone to stop by on October 29 to celebrate with the animals.

Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, stated that every animal deserves a loving home. He noted that the month serves as a reminder of the animals waiting for a second chance. Schettino said the organization is excited to connect with the community through this unique station transformation.

Visitors will have the chance to interact with canine guests, including some previously adopted through the shelter. People can learn about animals seeking permanent homes and discover ways to support the organization. Options include adoption, fostering, and volunteering.

Several local police and university departments will send therapy dogs to the station. MetroWest K-9 Services and the Burlington Police Department are participating. The police departments of Berklee College of Music and Northeastern University will also attend. Boston K9 LLC will have dogs on site as well.

This event is part of a year-long celebration by the MBTA. The transit authority is marking the 130th anniversary of the first subway in America, which opened in 1897. The agency is releasing special historical social media videos throughout the year to commemorate the milestone.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston was founded in 1899. It is the first animal welfare organization in Massachusetts founded by a woman. The group helps more than 20,000 animals annually. It operates without government funding and relies on private support to provide care year-round.

The Bark Street Station event runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 29. The MBTA and the Animal Rescue League of Boston will host the gathering at the Park Street Station.