The Best Friends Animal Society is a leading nonprofit dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in shelters across America. Founded in 1984, this organization runs the nations largest no-kill sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, and partners with thousands of shelters nationwide. Whether you want to adopt a pet, volunteer, or donate, learning about Best Friends Animal Society can help you support healthier, happier lives for companion animals.
Quick Answers
What does Best Friends Animal Society do?
Best Friends Animal Society (BFAS) operates a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that rescues, rehabilitates, and provides lifelong sanctuary to dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, horses, and more. It collaborates with over 5,200 shelters nationwide to promote no-kill policies and help save millions of lives annually.
Where are the Best Friends Animal Society locations?
The main sanctuary is located in Kanab, Utah. BFAS also has regional offices and adoption centers in Atlanta, Georgia; Los Angeles, California; New Mexico; Texas; and is planning a large new facility in Woodbury, New York. Visit their websites Locations page for a detailed list of centers and addresses.
How can I contact Best Friends Animal Society?
You can reach the national office toll-free at (800) 968-8900. The website offers email forms for specific inquiries, and regional offices have their own phone numbers listed on the Contact page.
Are there Best Friends Animal Society centers near me?
Use the Find a Location tool on their website by entering your ZIP code. Youll find the closest sanctuary, adoption center, or community shelter partner nearby, which often hosts spay/neuter clinics and educational programs.
What career opportunities exist at Best Friends Animal Society?
BFAS hires professionals including veterinarians, adoption counselors, animal care technicians, grant writers, and facility managers. Internship programs are available as well. Visit the Careers page to see current openings.
What does the Best Friends Animal Society logo look like?
The BFAS logo features a teal and gray silhouette of a dog and a cat intertwined to form a heart shape. It reflects the organizations commitment to love and care for all animals.
What is Best Friends Animal Society Bentonville?
Bentonville, Arkansas hosts a regional adoption and outreach hub that partners with local shelters for low-cost spay/neuter services and pet-owner education.
How can I adopt from Best Friends Animal Society?
Adoption involves browsing their adoptable pets catalog online, submitting an application, attending a meet-and-greet, completing a home visit, and signing an adoption agreement. This ensures each pet finds a suitable and loving home.
Organization Overview
History & Mission
Best Friends Animal Society was founded in 1984 with the mission to end the killing of dogs and cats in Americas shelters. Its focus is on no-kill sanctuary care and supporting shelter partners to promote lasting, humane change. This mission aligns with growing awareness around animal welfare nationwide.
Core Programs & Services
At its flagship Kanab sanctuary, BFAS cares for over 1,600 animals at any time, providing veterinary care and rehabilitation. Beyond the sanctuary, it offers grants and resources to more than 5,200 shelter partners to implement no-kill policies. Community programs include spay/neuter clinics, disaster relief, and education for pet owners and the public.
Geographic Footprint & Growth
The main sanctuary in Kanab, Utah comprises thousands of acres and is the largest no-kill facility in the country. Regional offices in Atlanta, Los Angeles, New Mexico, Texas, and the upcoming Woodbury, New York location expand outreach and community impact. These hubs facilitate adoption events, education, and partnerships with local shelters.
Financial Transparency & Trustmarks
BFAS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit with audited financial statements available to the public. According to Charity Navigator and similar sources, it maintains strong ratings for transparency and efficient use of funds, ensuring that donations maximize animal care.
Engagement Opportunities
Adoption Process
Adopting from Best Friends Animal Society begins with browsing animals online or visiting a regional center. The three-step adoption process includes:
- Application: Submit a detailed form about your living situation and preferences.
- Meet & Greet: Spend time with potential pets to assess compatibility.
- Home Visit & Agreement: A staff member confirms your home is safe and approves the adoption.
Adoption fees vary based on species and age. They typically cover medical care, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering.
Adoption Success Stories
Many adoptive families share heartwarming stories on social media and forums. For example, a rescued senior dog named Max found a loving family through BFAS after months of rehabilitation. Tales like these highlight the transformative power of adoption.
Volunteering
BFAS offers volunteer roles both onsite and remotely. At the sanctuary, tasks include animal care, enrichment activities, cleaning, and facility maintenance. Remote options may involve social media, grant writing, and community outreach support.
Volunteer Training & Requirements
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old (some youth programs are available), complete orientation sessions, pass background checks for certain roles, and commit a minimum number of hours weekly. Training ensures pets and people remain safe and their needs met.
Donations & Impact
Donations help fund medical care, food, facility upkeep, and educational programs. Options include one-time gifts, monthly sponsorships, and legacy giving. To put this in perspective, a $100 donation typically covers a month of veterinary care for one rescued dog or cat.
Transparency Tools
Donors can access annual reports and live donation trackers online, affirming that contributions are responsibly managed.
Careers & Internships
Career opportunities span veterinary medicine, animal care, communications, and organizational management. Competitive salaries and benefits include health coverage and tuition reimbursement. Internships offer hands-on experience for students interested in animal welfare careers.
Salary & Benefits Overview
| Position | Average Salary Range | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinarian | $70,000$100,000 | Health insurance, professional development |
| Animal Care Technician | $30,000$40,000 | Paid leave, dental, employee assistance |
| Grant Writer | $50,000$65,000 | Flexible hours, tuition reimbursement |
Best Friends Animal Society FAQs
Best Friends Animal Society phone number?
The main contact number is 1-800-968-8900. Regional offices have local numbers listed on the website for direct communication.
Best Friends Animal Society near me how far is the nearest?
You can use their online location finder tool. Most U.S. states have a sanctuary or partner shelter within 50 miles, making access to adoption and services easier.
Can I donate a pets medical bills to BFAS?
Yes, the Medical Fund accepts direct contributions to cover veterinary needs for sanctuary animals, ensuring prompt and quality care.
What animals are housed at the Utah sanctuary?
The Kanab sanctuary cares for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, horses, pigs, goats, and even some exotic species rescued from neglect or abandonment.
Is Best Friends Animal Society a no-kill shelter?
Absolutely. BFAS operates a 100% no-kill sanctuary and advocates for no-kill shelter data and practices nationwide to end unnecessary euthanasia.
How do I apply to volunteer at the sanctuary?
Visit the BFAS volunteer webpage, complete an application form, attend training orientation, and meet any age or background requirements.
Does BFAS offer any education programs for pet owners?
Yes, the organization hosts spay/neuter clinics and community outreach workshops focused on safe pet care, nutrition, and behavior training.
Comparing Major Sanctuaries
| Criteria | Best Friends Animal Society | ASPCA Sanctuary | Humane Society Regional Shelter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Capacity | ~1,600 animals onsite | ~1,200 animals | Varies by region |
| No-Kill Policy | 100% no-kill sanctuary | 90%+ no-kill rate | Depends on funding and policies |
| Geographic Reach | National network + regional hubs | Strong urban presence | Often local focus |
| Programs | Sanctuary, partnerships, education | Rescue, advocacy, adoption | Adoption, local services |
Pro Tips
One often overlooked choice is adopting from a sanctuary like Best Friends instead of typical shelters. These animals receive comprehensive vet care and behavioral rehab, increasing adoption success. Also, avoid impulsive donations; vet-backed advice recommends regular giving or sponsorships that maximize long-term impact.
For pet lovers considering a new companion, exploring 35 rare cat breeds or reviewing the hypoallergenic cat breeds list can complement your adoption journey from Best Friends Animal Society well.
More You Might Like
- Discover other pet rescue organizations that are making a difference nationwide.
- Learn what makes specific breeds unique and how to care for them through our breed profiles and health tips.
By understanding the mission and programs of Best Friends Animal Society, youre better equipped to support a no-kill future. Whether you adopt, volunteer, or donate, your involvement helps create lasting change. Consider visiting a sanctuary or exploring adoptable pets the next time you look to welcome a new furry friend into your home.
FAQs
Is Best friends animal society safe for my dog or cat?
Yes, Best Friends Animal Society maintains a 100% no-kill policy and provides comprehensive veterinary care, behavioral rehabilitation, and safe sanctuary environments to ensure rescued animals are healthy and well-cared for.
How do I apply to volunteer at the Best Friends Animal Society sanctuary?
Visit their volunteer page online to complete an application form, attend orientation training, meet age and background check requirements, and commit to the minimum volunteer hours needed for safety and effective care.
What is the adoption process for pets at Best Friends Animal Society?
Adopters browse available pets online or onsite, submit an application, meet and greet potential pets, and undergo a home visit. Approved applicants sign an adoption agreement and pay fees covering medical care and spay/neuter services.
Where is the main Best Friends Animal Society sanctuary located?
The largest sanctuary is in Kanab, Utah, covering thousands of acres and housing about 1,600 animals. It serves as the flagship for no-kill sanctuary care and community outreach programs.
Can I donate to cover a pet’s medical bills at Best Friends Animal Society?
Yes, donations can be directed to their Medical Fund that supports veterinary care for shelter animals, helping provide treatments, surgeries, vaccinations, and ongoing health needs.
