The Best Friends Animal Society stands as a beacon of hope for countless animals in need. For over three decades, this remarkable organization has been leading the charge toward a world where every pet has a safe, loving home. Whether you’re an animal lover, a volunteer, or just someone looking to make a difference, Best Friends Animal Society offers a meaningful way to engage in life-saving efforts.
With a clear mission to “Save Them All,” the organization operates through education, advocacy, and hands-on rescue work. But what exactly makes the Best Friends Animal Society so special? And how can you get involved? Let’s dive into their history, programs, and how they continue to create a lasting impact on pets and people alike.
The History of Best Friends Animal Society
Best Friends Animal Society was founded in 1984 by a group of passionate individuals who were determined to save homeless animals from euthanasia. Back then, the idea of “no-kill” shelters was rare, and euthanasia rates were high. This group of friends set out to challenge the status quo by creating a sanctuary where animals could live out their lives without fear of being put down simply because they were unwanted or abandoned.
Their groundbreaking approach led to the creation of the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. Nestled in a breathtaking canyon, this sanctuary has since grown into one of the largest no-kill facilities in the world. The sanctuary cares for dogs, cats, horses, birds, and even farm animals. It’s not just a place where animals live; it’s where they thrive.
Best Friends Animal Society Programs
- The Sanctuary in Utah
As mentioned, the heart of Best Friends is its sprawling sanctuary. It is home to over 1,600 animals at any given time, each receiving personalized care. The sanctuary welcomes visitors year-round, offering tours, volunteer opportunities, and even an option to adopt one of the many pets in their care. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination for anyone who loves animals. - No-Kill Initiatives
Best Friends Animal Society has made it their mission to ensure that all shelters in the U.S. adopt a no-kill policy by 2025. Through partnerships with shelters nationwide, they provide education, resources, and support to help reduce euthanasia rates. Their “No-Kill Los Angeles” (NKLA) and “No-Kill Utah” (NKUT) initiatives are prime examples of how local efforts can lead to significant national progress. - Pet Adoption and Foster Programs
Best Friends runs extensive adoption programs across the country, giving homeless pets a second chance at life. From pop-up adoption events to their online adoption platform, they make it easy to find your next furry friend. They also promote fostering, encouraging people to open their homes to pets temporarily while they await permanent homes. - Advocacy and Legislation
Best Friends doesn’t just stop at hands-on animal care. They are vocal advocates for better animal welfare laws. They actively campaign against breed-specific legislation (BSL) and other laws that unfairly target certain pets, especially pit bulls. By working with lawmakers and the public, they help bring about positive changes for animals on a broader scale.
How to Support Best Friends Animal Society
Feeling inspired by their mission? Here’s how you can support the Best Friends Animal Society and make a difference in the lives of animals:
- Donate: Monetary donations help keep the sanctuary running and fund nationwide programs. Whether it’s a one-time gift or a monthly contribution, every dollar counts.
- Volunteer: Whether at their Utah sanctuary or through one of their nationwide events, volunteers are always welcome. You can help walk dogs, care for cats, or assist in community outreach programs.
- Adopt or Foster: If you’re looking for a new family member, consider adopting from Best Friends. They have a wide range of pets waiting for homes. If you’re not ready to commit, fostering is a fantastic option.
- Spread Awareness: Share their message! Social media, word of mouth, or even attending their events can help spread awareness and encourage others to get involved.
The Impact of Best Friends Animal Society
Best Friends has accomplished so much, but they’re not stopping anytime soon. Their impact can be seen in the declining euthanasia rates across the country and the growing number of shelters transitioning to no-kill policies. But they can’t do it alone.
Did you know that an estimated 4 million animals are still euthanized in shelters every year? That’s why Best Friends’ work remains critical. They believe that together, with the support of volunteers, donors, and animal lovers like you, they can bring that number to zero.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What does “no-kill” mean?
A no-kill shelter is one where at least 90% of animals are saved, meaning they are not euthanized except in cases of extreme illness or aggression. - How can I visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary?
The sanctuary is open year-round to visitors. You can book tours, volunteer, or even stay on-site in one of their guest accommodations. - Can I adopt a pet directly from Best Friends?
Yes! Best Friends has a robust adoption program, and you can view available pets on their website. They even offer virtual adoptions for those who may not live near a Best Friends location. - What types of animals does Best Friends care for?
Best Friends takes in a wide variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, birds, and other farm animals. - How can I get involved if I don’t live near a Best Friends location?
No matter where you are, there are plenty of ways to get involved. You can donate, foster, adopt, or even participate in online advocacy campaigns.
Conclusion: Best Friends Animal Society – A Legacy of Compassion
Best Friends Animal Society has proven time and again that compassion can change the world. Their unwavering commitment to animal welfare, coupled with their innovative programs, has made them a leader in the no-kill movement. With a goal to “Save Them All,” they’re working tirelessly to ensure that every animal gets the chance to live and thrive.
Whether you’re looking to adopt, donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word, there are countless ways to support this life-saving organization. The Best Friends Animal Society is more than just a sanctuary or an advocacy group—it’s a community of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference. Together, we can help them achieve their mission and create a brighter future for all animals.