When it comes to protecting our furry friends, the Best Friends Animal Society stands out as a beacon of hope. Founded with the mission to end the killing of shelter animals across the U.S., this organization has become a powerful voice for animal welfare. But what exactly is the Best Friends Animal Society? How do they make a difference? In this article, we’ll explore their history, efforts, and how you can get involved in this inspiring movement to save lives.
The Origins of Best Friends Animal Society
The Best Friends Animal Society wasn’t built overnight. Its roots go back to the late 1980s when a group of dedicated animal lovers decided to challenge the idea that killing homeless animals was the only option. They believed there had to be a better way—and boy, were they right!
At a time when over 17 million animals were being killed in shelters annually, Best Friends emerged with a bold mission: to ensure every pet has a home. They founded a sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, which remains the largest no-kill sanctuary in the U.S. today. Over the years, the organization has grown into a national leader in the fight against animal euthanasia, and they’ve helped reduce that 17 million to less than 1 million annually.
How Does Best Friends Animal Society Work?
It’s easy to wonder, “How does Best Friends Animal Society manage to save so many lives?” The answer lies in their comprehensive approach. From running the nation’s largest no-kill sanctuary to working with shelters and communities across the country, they’ve created a model of success that others can replicate.
Key Areas of Work
- No-Kill Advocacy
Best Friends is at the forefront of the no-kill movement, advocating for a future where no healthy or treatable pet is euthanized in shelters. Through their network of local partnerships, they’ve managed to help communities achieve no-kill status. - Sanctuary for Animals
Their sprawling sanctuary in Utah is home to thousands of animals. Dogs, cats, birds, horses, and even pigs find refuge here. It’s not just a place for adoption but a healing space for animals that need specialized care before they find their forever homes. - Adoption and Foster Programs
A big part of their success comes from nationwide adoption events and fostering programs. The more animals they can place in homes, the closer they get to their goal of ending shelter killing. - Education and Resources
Best Friends offers a wealth of educational materials for pet owners and animal welfare workers alike. Whether it’s how to handle feral cats or run a successful adoption event, they’ve got it covered.
Why No-Kill Matters
For many of us, the term “no-kill” might sound like a buzzword, but its impact is immense. Achieving no-kill means that a shelter saves at least 90% of its animals. That 10% often accounts for animals with terminal illnesses or severe behavior issues that may prevent them from being rehomed.
But the goal is to push that number even higher, ensuring that every animal—whether it’s a senior cat with health issues or a rambunctious dog with behavioral problems—gets a chance at life. Best Friends Animal Society believes that every pet deserves that chance. And with their efforts, more and more shelters are adopting this life-saving approach.
How Can You Help?
Feel inspired by Best Friends Animal Society and want to get involved? You don’t need to run a sanctuary or be an expert on animal welfare to make a difference. There are plenty of ways you can lend a hand:
- Adopt or Foster
Adopting a pet or offering your home as a foster can make a huge difference. Plus, fostering can help ease overcrowding in shelters, which leads to fewer animals being euthanized. - Volunteer
You don’t need to be in Utah to volunteer! Best Friends works with a national network of shelters, and they’re always looking for people willing to lend their time and skills. - Donate
Every dollar counts. Donations to Best Friends help fund life-saving programs, medical care for animals, and educational outreach. - Spread the Word
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is tell others about the incredible work being done. Follow Best Friends Animal Society on social media and share their stories to raise awareness.
Success Stories from Best Friends Animal Society
Let’s talk about some success stories because who doesn’t love a happy ending? One notable case is Ray, a senior dog that arrived at the sanctuary blind and scared. After months of dedicated care, Ray found his forever family and now lives his golden years in comfort. Then there’s Fluffy, a once-feral kitten who now reigns supreme as the beloved pet of a local family. Stories like these are proof that second chances work.
FAQs About Best Friends Animal Society
What is the main goal of Best Friends Animal Society?
The primary goal is to end the killing of shelter animals and make the United States a no-kill nation by 2025.
Where is the Best Friends Animal Society located?
Their primary sanctuary is in Kanab, Utah, but they have programs and partnerships with shelters nationwide.
How can I adopt from Best Friends?
You can visit their website to view available animals or participate in one of their many adoption events.
Can I visit the sanctuary?
Yes! The sanctuary in Utah is open for visitors, and you can even volunteer while you’re there.
Is Best Friends a no-kill organization?
Absolutely. They operate under a strict no-kill philosophy, both at their sanctuary and in their partnerships with shelters across the country.
Conclusion: Join the Movement
Best Friends Animal Society isn’t just an organization; it’s a movement—one that’s changing the way we think about animals in shelters. By focusing on no-kill solutions, they’ve already saved countless lives. But their work isn’t done yet. With their goal to make the U.S. a no-kill nation by 2025, there’s still plenty of work to be done. And whether you donate, adopt, or volunteer, you can be part of this life-saving journey.