Imagine a world where every pet is cherished, no animal is unwanted, and shelters are just a temporary stop before finding a loving home. That’s the dream the Best Friends Animal Society is turning into reality. But what exactly makes this organization so special? Well, from their no-kill policy to their tireless advocacy, Best Friends Animal Society is more than just a charity—it’s a movement that’s transforming how we think about animal welfare.
In this article, we’ll explore the incredible work being done by Best Friends Animal Society, how it started, and why it remains a crucial force in the fight to save animals. Whether you’re an animal lover, potential volunteer, or simply curious about their impact, you’re in the right place.
A Brief History of Best Friends Animal Society
Best Friends Animal Society was founded in 1984 with one clear mission: to create a world where no animal is killed in shelters due to space or lack of resources. Its founders, a group of passionate animal lovers, realized that shelter animals were often euthanized simply because there weren’t enough homes or funds to care for them. Determined to change this, they set up shop in Kanab, Utah, and began their journey toward ending this grim reality.
But what started as a small sanctuary soon grew into a national organization that now leads the charge in reducing shelter deaths across the country. Today, Best Friends Animal Society partners with shelters, rescue groups, and individuals to push for a no-kill future.
The No-Kill Movement
One of the defining characteristics of Best Friends Animal Society is its commitment to the no-kill movement. But what does “no-kill” really mean?
In simple terms, a no-kill shelter saves all healthy or treatable animals and only euthanizes those that are suffering or are a danger to the community. The ultimate goal of Best Friends is to make the entire country no-kill by 2025.
Why No-Kill Matters Animals deserve a second chance, and the no-kill approach ensures that. Rather than being euthanized, animals in no-kill shelters receive the care, medical treatment, and love they need until they’re adopted. Best Friends Animal Society provides resources to shelters nationwide, helping them improve their practices, promote adoptions, and ultimately reduce the number of animals being euthanized.
How Best Friends Animal Society Works
Best Friends Animal Society doesn’t just run its sanctuary in Utah; it also works with thousands of partners across the U.S. Here’s how they make an impact:
- Adoption Programs: Best Friends connects potential pet owners with animals looking for homes. From dogs and cats to birds and bunnies, the organization promotes adopting instead of shopping for pets.
- Spay/Neuter Initiatives: To combat overpopulation, Best Friends pushes for spaying and neutering pets. By controlling the pet population, they reduce the number of animals that end up in shelters.
- Community Outreach: Best Friends partners with local shelters and rescue groups to host adoption events and provide essential resources like medical care, training, and foster homes.
- Legislative Advocacy: The society is heavily involved in pushing for better animal welfare laws. Whether it’s lobbying for humane treatment in shelters or banning harmful breeding practices, they ensure animals are protected not just physically, but legally as well.
Volunteering with Best Friends Animal Society
Want to make a difference? Best Friends offers numerous ways to get involved. Whether you’re a seasoned animal advocate or just starting, there’s something for everyone.
- Volunteer at the Sanctuary: The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah is a 3,700-acre haven for nearly 1,600 animals. Volunteers can help care for these animals directly, making a tangible impact.
- Foster a Pet: Can’t adopt? You can still help by fostering an animal in need. Many pets need temporary homes before finding their forever family.
- Remote Volunteering: Not everyone can travel to Utah, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference. Best Friends offers opportunities to volunteer remotely by helping with outreach, writing, or fundraising.
Success Stories: Changing Lives, One Animal at a Time
Best Friends Animal Society has saved thousands of animals, but behind every statistic is a heartwarming story. Take Lucky, a dog who was abandoned due to a medical condition. Thanks to Best Friends, he received the care he needed and was soon adopted by a loving family. Or Whiskers, a cat that had been labeled unadoptable, but through the organization’s efforts, found a forever home.
Each animal saved by Best Friends represents a life transformed. Their approach ensures that no animal is left behind, no matter how long it takes.
FAQs About Best Friends Animal Society
- What is the Best Friends Animal Society’s main goal?
Their mission is to create a world where no animal is killed in shelters simply because of space or lack of resources. They aim to make the U.S. no-kill by 2025.
- How can I support Best Friends Animal Society?
You can support them by donating, adopting, volunteering, fostering, or simply spreading awareness about their mission and programs.
- Where is the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary located?
The sanctuary is located in Kanab, Utah, on a sprawling 3,700 acres of land that provides a haven for thousands of animals.
- Can I visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary?
Yes, visitors are welcome! You can tour the sanctuary and even volunteer during your visit.
- What makes Best Friends different from other animal shelters?
Best Friends stands out for its national approach, advocating for no-kill shelters across the U.S., and providing essential resources to local shelters to help them succeed.
Conclusion
Best Friends Animal Society isn’t just saving animals—they’re revolutionizing how we treat and care for them. Through their no-kill initiatives, advocacy, and incredible community outreach, they’re making sure that every pet gets the second chance they deserve. So, whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer, or simply learn more about animal welfare, Best Friends Animal Society should be on your radar. They’re a testament to what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.
