Best Friends Animal Society

I visited the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in August of 2014 - I was blown away by their complete dedication to the well being of their animals, as well as the transparency they provided to visitors - I returned in March of 2015, and hope to continue to make regular visits. I love that they engage with the communities they serve on such a deep level - with efforts like NKLA and NKUT. After becoming a member, I joined their mailing list, and they even sent me an email notification letting me know that the town I live in (Sandy City, UT) was having a council meeting discussing whether or not they should make the local shelter no-kill, along with helpful speaking tips. Overall, I am completely impressed with this organization, and the care they provide to animals in need.

Five stars because: Best Friends is the best kind of classic American success story; because they succeed and show every sign of continuing to succeed in the future; because they had the inspiration to provide positive PR to encourage adoptions and their happy-after-ever-stories; because they believe in themselves; because I ardently share their mission and have on my lap this minute a Chihuahua of the most superior and beautiful and worthy kind who rescued us even as we rescued him from a completely senseless and useless death by euthanasia in a crowded shelter with no more room and a tight deadline --and I guess I have to mean it when I say "dead"line.

Best Friends Animal Society has been doing wonderful work for years and we have been fans for some time. One of the key things they do that is important to me is keeping me in the loop on the animals I choose to sponsor throughout the year - they send me notices on dogs finding their forever homes, updates on their status at BFAS HQ, and the sad news when one of these dear dogs travels to the Rainbow Bridge. Over the years they have kept the importance of the individuality of each dog who passes through their care - these beings are not statistics to them, each one is loved and they have not wavered in sharing these valuable lessons to young and old. They truly believe that one day, we would have no more homeless pets.

Best Friends found me my best friend, Riley (aka Urlacher)

I have been donating to Animal service causes for years. Best friend is not just a service for Animal not just a call to help animals it's a new way of life. Best friends does wonderful work at their Utah location and has spread out in the nation another locations as well. But what people don't see if the big picture best friends reaches far beyond their own Doors. There cause its for the whole nation and the world to treat animals better. And their most important gift to us is knowledge. Thank G-d for BF!

I learned about this wonderful organization many years ago and I was hooked line and sinker when they took in the dogs from Michael Vick's dog fighting operation. The patience they had with those abused dogs really touched my heart. Been donating ever since! They also have great publications that share the stories about the many animals they help. Truly inspiring work! And they do such a good job with marketing that they even share funds with small local dog shelters, including the one I volunteer for.

My kids (11 and 13) and I spend a week volunteering at best friends this spring. What an amazing organization! From the beauty of the setting to the kindness of the staff everything was fantastic. The love of animals shines through in everything they do. We will be back!

Sincerely,
The Martins
Independence KY

Best Friends is one of the most outstanding and significant animal sanctuaries in the U.S. Their work has saved thousands of lives and they deserve recognition for this. They have spread the no kill message far and wide and their dedication to continuing to do so is one of the greatest hopes I have for making the U.S. a no kill nation.

This no kill shelter is a one of a kind. They care for all animals, large and small, not just dogs and cats. It's on my bucket list to one day spend a week volunteering there. They deserve all kinds of awards. I have been spreading the word about this place for years.

I am in awe of how tireless and focused Best Friends is in their ultimate goal to end the killing of animals in shelters to have no more homeless pets! My dream was to visit and volunteer at the Sanctuary to at least get a glimpse into the amazing work they do for all the animals. My husband and I spent 2 weeks volunteering at the Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah last may and we were blown away. It truly inspired us to continue advocating for all animals and to get much more involved in our own local shelters. The compassion and true love for these animals is inspiring. Many of these animals have been treated as if they are not worth saving....but Best Friends knows that is not true....not only are they worth saving but it is our human and moral obligation to do so in a kind and loving manner and Best Friends is a shining example!

Best Friends is an astounding organization that seeks to "Save them all!". I first started reading theiir materials and donatong money when they first opened the Kanab, Utah facility. Now they are the leaders in providing pet rescue at weather events and figting the evil of dog fighting and puppy mills. Their efforts to make a viable volunteer program has created a venue for many to help animals all over the country. Although I have not yet joined the volunteers, I plan to in the future. Best Friends inspires me as well as many other.

Best Friends does amazing work- they really get the word out there on how regular people can help get pets adopted, even if you can't adopt yourself. They are welcoming to all types of volunteers and anyone who wants to help. They really mean it when they say they want to end the killing of pets in shelters!

I learned about Best Friends after seeing the TruCar "joy ride" initiative to send shelter animals to Best Friends adoption centers and was moved to begin donating to their organization. Since then I have learned about their exceptional dedication to advancing the no kill movement and their donation to help my hometown of San Antonio reach their no kill goal. I love seeing the YouTube videos of their success stories. They are pioneers with years of great accomplishments behind them and yet still much more to do. Please support their tireless cause.

Best Friends is the most wonderful organization helping countless animals for 30 years. I have visited and volunteered at the sanctuary in Kanab 11 times in the past 17 years. There is a spirituality at the sanctuary that must be experienced. Everyone there is dedicated to the welfare of the hundreds of animals in their care, and the organization has made great strides in networking across the country and even internationally to promote the No Kill movement and they are having a very positive effect! They have always promoted "the good news about animals and the earth," which is another reason why I love Best Friends!!

Best Friends is a tireless animal rescue organization that works around the clock to rescue and care for thousands of animals in jeopardy. They also have an extensive outreach and adoption program supported by expert fundraising and volunteerism. I regularly donate to their cause.

I emailed you, BFAS, May 25th at 636pm CDT to tell you about Torrey and how you took her in after she was found in Torrey, Utah, starving, by two women hikers with their two dogs.
Torrey was the black one, who went to Best Friends in Oct 2002. The red one ran away and likely met a bad fate in the mountain/desert landscape without a companion. You guys brought her back to life, spade her and prepared her for adoption from SFSPCA. I adopted Torrey from the SFSPCA on April 7, 2003; she had been there a week?
She was and still is my best friend!!! I said goodbye to her May 23, 2015. I miss her every day!
BFAS are one of my beneficiaries on my accounts. I'm not ready to join Torrey yet, although sometimes I think they should taken us together...
Your work is not forgotten. I love all that you do! And, one day, when or if I am ever ready, I will adopt/rescue another dog from you!
Thank you for all you do!
Please check your email from the above date!!! There is a PDF attachment of Torrey's story!
Feel free to contact me. I have been hoping you would!
THANK YOU!

I have volunteered with Best Friends in Utah and in California. Aside from being an animal lover, BF volunteer, and BF donor, I have over 25 years experience in the nonprofit sector--mostly grantmaking (including assessing nonprofit management and results), with several years combined at other U.S. nonprofits and an INGO. Can't say enough about Best Friends--highest quality care, outstanding volunteer opportunities and management, tremendous outreach to public and policymakers, and excellent support for other programs working throughout the U.S. They do it all well and they get great results. Please support them if you are able.

Best Friends is an amazing place! I have been a member for the last 12 years and I am constantly amazed by their creativity when it comes to saving animals! Always great new programs and innovative ideas for animal rescue!

I first became aware of Best Friends after Katrina when they were majorly involved. They had also previously taken a basset hound when I worked with Golden Gate basset rescue. They have now opened up satellite offices in Los Angeles and other cities with a large stray animal population. I have been a donor now for several years and hope to volunteer soon.

I have been to this awesome place! Attended a seminar several years ago and was so impressed by the beautiful place and it's very friendly and caring personnel. Every animal was loved and well cared for. The sanctuary is clean and well maintained. I would love to go back in the near future as a volunteer and to interact with the animals. I would give it 5 stars!!!

There simply are not enough words to describe how this organization has touched my heart by the good that they provide to all living creatures!!! I hope to someday travel to Best Friends if the opportunity comes to be. Would be so proud to say that I contributed to this great organization and helped donate my time to the love and care they obviously provide for all animals in need!

Best Friends began with a small, idealistic yet realistic, enthusiastic and goal-driven group of animal lovers. They've spread the idea of SAVE THEM ALL through every communication medium out there, always fun and positive. The beautiful sanctuary is a loving home to thousands of rejected animals, who are set up for adoption success by training and socializing. They are THE model that other sanctuaries aspire to, and they provide mentoring to other sanctuary staff members.

I have often seen them step in and assist high kill shelters learn ways other than killing to assist companion animals to find homes, help get those processes going, and the results shown by dramatic decreases in kill rates at these shelters. They help out at Paws Humane and Columbus (GA) Animal Control to provide a TNR program for community cats in that city/county, only 30 miles from my home in Alabama.

Best Friends Animal Society has been doing an amazing job saving animals and raising awareness of animal welfare for over 30 years. The rehabilitation work for the Michael Vick pitbulls is just one example of their successes. I am certainly a proud supporter of their work!

I started volunteering for Best Friends when I learned about them from the National Geographic Dogtown TV show. It's an amazing organization that is truly the only one focusing on the killing of animals every day in America's shelters.
Now I'm so proud to work for Best Friends. We have amazing benefits and an atmosphere that is hopeful as we try to help out as many animals as possible.

Best Friends Animal Society is probably the best animal organization there is. By fighting for putting an end to killing innocent animals that have no voice..they will create a kinder, more loving and caring world. Animals are our friends and should not be abused, tortured, killed, starved, chained or left alone..Best Friends Animal Society WILL HELP SAVE THEM ALL..

I LOVE THE WAY THIS FANTASTIC GROUP IS WORKING SO HARD TO SAVE ALL THE FAMILY OF DOGS ,CATS ,HORSES,PIGS AND THE LIST OF WONDERFUL ANIMALS GOES ON AND NOT BE PUT TO SLEEP.SO THEY CAN ALL FIND WONDERFUL ,LOVING HOMES.THEIR STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS ARE SO LOVING AND WHEN SOMETHING EVER HAPPENS TO MY HUSBAND AND I ,WE WANT THEM TO TAKE OUR FAMILY PETS TO TAKE THEM SO THEY WILL BE BE IN EXCELLENT CARE.THEY ARE IN OUR WILL,THAT IS HOW MUCH I THINK OF BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SANCTUARY#1

Best Friends is the best place ever! They treat each and every animal with love, respect, kindness. They go to great lengths to heal them and to find forever homes! They go above and beyond. And what a beautiful place. It touched my heart so much that I actually cried - good tears - from the heart

A wonderful resource for everyone, including rescues and foster homes across the nation! They are doing great work, educating and staying positive while making a huge difference to animals!

I have been following Best Friends and been a contributing member every since a group of people who were doing animal welfare on their own, banded and formed Best Friends in Utah. Since then what they have accomplished is unbelievable From sitting at tables on the street to raise funds in order to continue, to having Best Friends all across the United States to assist injured animals, and ones needing homes, to ensuring that their no kill policy becomes effective through all the states, and hopefully all over the world. There are not enough good words to express how grateful we are to them the founders and to all the wonderful people who volunteer their time and to all the fantastic people who have given so many a forever home. Thank you. from the bottom of my heart. keep up the great work you are doing..

When I first heard about Best Friends, many years ago, I was keen to support them as I am a passionate animal lover. After I had made a few donations I was surprised to get a call from them one day, not to ask for more money, as so often happens with charities, but to say thank you and to encourage me to pay a visit to the sanctuary in Utah. Not long after I took a week's leave and flew to Kanab where I spent a few days helping the staff to clean, feed and clean up the cat facilities. The staff were so appreciative of their volunteers and it was such fun to be with like-minded people. The facility was immaculate, the animals all seemed so happy. (Best Friends cares for many kinds of animals and birds) As someone who is not easily impressed, I was overwhelmed by the Sanctuary. A couple of years later I was able to pay another visit and could not believe the progress that had been made, so many new shelter buildings, so many more animals living a great life while waiting for their "forever" homes, unlike so many less fortunate animals that merely survive in their overcrowded shelters which is not intended as criticism of those shelters. Best Friends seems to have found a formula for success in this endeavor. Their magazine is full of upbeat, happy stories and pictures of animals having a great time. This was what particularly appealed to me in the first place, and having seen first hand where my donated funds were being spent, I was became even more dedicated to the cause. The really wonderful thing about this society is that they share their success not just around the country but around the world. They are constantly sending rescue teams to areas that have been devastated by forces of Nature and war. They also offer wonderful training courses for people who want to join the crusade. Best Friends has been my favorite charity for many years now and I cannot see a time when that will change. When I think Best Friends, I think PEACE, LOVE, HAPPINESS as well as patience, tolerance and friendship. May God always bless this very special society.

I have been a volunteer and donor for Best Friends for many years. The impact of their work in reducing the number of pets euthanized each year in the U.S. has been phenomenal, and it continues to grow steadily. They perform their mission effectively, efficiently, and with so much love as they partner with rescues across the country. They are truly unique!

I am so impressed by Best Friends Animal Society. They do such important and life-saving work for so many animals across the country. I have friends who take their vacations at Best Friends. I want to retire there, living out my life sharing in the goodness.

Best Friends does wonders for our animals. Their proactive stance in furthering adoptions and their spay/neuter programs help save shelter animals and make strides in controlling over population.

Best Friends is one of the organizations that has made the no-kill movement so successful. By reaching out to other communities, Best Friends has created a No-Kill LA, No-Kill Utah and other areas. It also assists small local shelters create better adoption events and helps them build their own local no-kill movements. Best Friends is an example of a great non-profit that endeavors to achieve the seemingly impossible - a no-kill nation.

I joined Best Friends back in their early days in the 1980s. They have been a the forefront of animal rescue from their very beginnings. They have always nurtured the idea of a no-kill nation. At that time, no one thought this was a possibility. But Best Friends has persevered that it could be done! These many years later, they are the shining example of an animal rescue that uses every option and possibility to help, not only the animals, but all the rescue groups that have come to believe in the no-kill effort. They partner with so many rescue groups all over the country to help them implement procedures that will one day bring us to the dream of "No More Homeless Pets"!

Best Friends in Kanab, Utah is an extremely well-organized and well-run organization. I had the pleasure of visiting twice, and both times I was so impressed with their staff, programs, and acreage, where animals have room to enjoy their lives after some heartbreaking circumstances. The network of Best Friends members across the U.S. is another achievement of this fantastic organization. Finally, most of the donations they receive go directly to the animals rather than administration. They have truly made a difference in so many animals' lives.

My family and I are HUGE animal lovers!! This organization deserves it!!!! Without them our fur babies would die!!!! they are a 20 out of 10!!!!

I visited Best Friends earlier this year and was blown away by the beauty, love and majesty of the place. It is the gold standard by which all shelters, of any kind should be measured. The thoughtful planning and execution in the design of the place is nothing short of amazing. I would love to retire there, as many people have. The care and dedication of the staff, along with the integration of volunteers is heartwarming. The animals who reside there are beyond blessed and it shows in their demeanor. A place of our joy! Having the opportunity to have sleepovers with an animal is brilliant! What a fun experience, that also provides insight into the animals behavior. Love, Love, Love this place. Cannot wait to go again?

The animals are smiling! Such love and dedication by this group!
The goal is that no animals should be euthanized, and they will do everything they can to make it happen.

Best friends does so much for the injured and unwanted, they deserve all the help they can. I would love to see it back on ngc.

I absolutely love Best Friends Animal Society. I have visited the Sanctuary in Utah, and am amazed at the wonderful care and love they have for the animals. I truly believe in their mission, and their passion for a world where we can save them all. They are PROACTIVE in their cause, and want to make changes to the laws and society. They have such a positive vision, and have done a great job projecting their message in a positive light.

Fulfilled a dream to visit Best Friends yesterday; amazing place! Hope to be able to come back and volunteer in the future. It is so evident that these animals are loved and well cared for; gives me hope in face of stories of abuse and neglect. The staff so obviously have a passion to "save them all" and it is heartwarming to see how they have rehabilitated animals that many shelters deem unfit as pets. Very impressive to see the growth of this organization in the past 30 years; they are doing such good in the world.

There should be more organizations like Best Friends Animal Society! They are saving and caring for God's precious creatures! They deserve the support of all people who care for and support the loving and loyal gifts from God!

I have donated to Best Friends for 25 years. My mom and I started to receive hand written thank you notes and a one page "news letter" detailing the goals and progress. The original founders gave up everything to help homeless and abused animals. We encouraged others to donate because we knew the money was really being used to create a safe home for animals that would have died or been put to sleep. The sacrifices made by the founders helped to create a model shelter for ALL animals, not just dogs and cats. I now volunteer at a small No Kill dog & cat shelter in Florida, inspired by years of reading Best Friends news letters. Everyone should read the book Best Friends The True Story. In my opinion it will inspire everyone to gladly vote for Best Friends. Bless them all.

I first heard of Best Friends Animal Society when they were featured on the cover of People Magazine! I was sitting in a doctors office and read the article about the father and daughter who started this amazing organization to help animals, big and small! I would love to tour the property one day, I know someone who did and they said it was the best experience! I try to donate to them and even if it is a small donation all of our small donations add up to big donations in the long run! Please read about them and donate whatever you can, it makes such a big difference! Thank you Best Friends for ALL you do every single day to help animals thrive and live happy lives! Vicky McDonald (Boca Raton, Florida)

I am impressed just how hard these animal shelters work to save the life of a dog or cat that seems nearly dead. Often it is their greatest reward to discover a wonderful pet for some needy person. This was my sister's experience. It was a lovely small dog trained as a care dog but he was sick in cars so was discarded. She cashed in on a beautiful friendship.

Always believed in every animal has a right to a happy life and Best Friends Animal Society is the epitome of this belief. I have no qualms about supporting Best Friends having rescued a dog from a life of being a bait dog. I hope someday that I can vacation in Utah at their ranch.

I don't have a story to tell. I just think Best Friends Animal Sanctuary rocks. I wish all states would crave to follow its motto: "Save Them All!" I contribute regularly to their work and have them listed in my will to receive part of my estate when I pass away. One of the things that I desire to do and will do is to visit the sanctuary and volunteer my time and to give my love to the animals living there. Thank you Best Friends for saving all of the lives that have been saved. Julie Lowery

What can I say about Best Friends Animal Society? Through their boundless, continued, heartfelt dedication to saving animals, they bring comfort and peace of mind to those of us who love animals, and life, warmth and love to the animals they save.

What else can you say that about?

I have been a supporter of Best Friends for years. They have done the best job of promoting awareness of the state of animals in this country. Their unending diligence in saving the uncared for and unwanted is to be praised. They deserve every bit of help they can get. Looking forward to my first visit there this fall.

I have been a member of Best Friends for several years and their efforts to "Save them all" is incredible. They are always providing updates on the latest efforts, laws and how we can help. I also do a little volunteering in my area and Best Friends is affiliated with a few of the shelters I work with. They're all over, and I love that about them. From what I've seen they are a very professional organization, and every volunteer seems to have a heart of gold. Just the fact that they're volunteers actually makes that last statement wholeheartedly true. I commend each and every one of them, as well as volunteers throughout the country. Best Friends gave me the motivation to want to help in my community.

I've heard so many great things about Best Friends and the work they're doing all over the country. I can't wait to plan a trip to Utah sometime in the very near future. I love that they share photos, send out newsletters, update their Facebook page regularly because it gives us all a glimpse of what takes place in the shelter on a daily basis, and the hard work everyone puts in to make Best Friends such a wonderful sanctuary for animals. I wish everyone had the gumption and heart that those volunteers exhibit every day - this world would be a much better place.

Kudos to you, Best Friends, for wanting to "Save them all"! My admiration is endless.

Wonderful organization that cares about animals. I adopted my senior dog from Best Friends- she gives us love everyday unconditionally.

Best friends works tirelessly to bring about no kill shelters nationwide.

Best Friends does such a wonderful work.They truly love and care about the animals!!!

I got involved with this organization by fostering kittens and then ended up volunteering at the kitten nursery. I can not say enough good things about the staff and mission of Best Friends Animal Society! They are so wonderful! Everyone I have interacted with has been knowledgeable, caring, pleasant and has a true passion for serving animals. I am very grateful that they exist and that I am able to be a part of the work as well.

An absolutely fantastic animal society, putting animals to sleep is not what they are about, they are about changing the way people look at companion animals, how they are treat, giving them the respect that they deserve and doing the almost impossible every day, how do i know this! i suport them as do many, they need everry voice to speak up, every voice counts, dogs have no voice, so be an animal advocate, if you can't adopt then foster, if you can't foster volunteer, if you can't volunteer donate, and help this fine society to help animals, they are not born to be abused, used, and dumped on death row in shelters which is sadly the case for literally thousands of dogs cats and other animals every year, if you can do non of the above then share and suport best friends animal society today.

Best friends animal sanctuary in Angel canyon is the most amazing place. The feeling there is peaceful and joyful. The animals that they give a home to, either short term or end of life, are taken care of and loved. Please consider volunteering AND donating to this amazing home!

I first heard about Best Friends from my aunt in Branford Connecticut. She is an avid animal lover that has had a household pet her entire life. The motto to "Save Every Pet" is the ultimate goal. No pet should be killed just for
being born. In the immediate future to cut back on shelter euthanizations, we need more foster care. We need a national register of foster homes. This can save lives if foster care rotation is needed until a foster home can be found or a forever home. This is the next step to save more animals.

Your organization is so AWESOME. Great people doing great things for other precious lives. Thanks for All you do :)

While visiting Las Vegas my husband and I took a day trip to Kanab Utah to see for ourselves this wonderful animal sanctuary responsible for commendable work immediately after Katrina struck the south. We were amazed at the beautiful forever homes they extended to so many wonderful animals. We were especially touched by the melodious cemetery made possible by the windchimes alongside each gravesite. It took my breath away. They are the gold standard for animal rescue.

Took my granddaughter for a week to volunteer. She loves dogs & I love cats, cleaned, scooped poop, groomed, walked the animals ,& even took a dog back to the motel for an overnight. Also worked with rabbits & horses ( seemed more like play) Care givers were caring, calm & dedicated. The animals were well taken care of. Will return someday to volunteer & adopt 2 older cats.
Joan London

Best Friends is the most amazing sanctuary for all animals. They are loved unconditionally and given the very best care possible. The people who work here are wonderful as well as all of the people who come from different parts of the country to give hope and love to animals who would not have known any love and kindness. They are such a blessing to all creatures that GOD created.

Osiyo, I would like to thank you for helping me rescue kittens last year that had no homes. One of your emploees is very nice and told me all about your spay and neuter program and I can get it done for a dollar. All the Kittens were fostered out and got homes. I used to think that the shelters were just kill jars for pets. It looks to me now that they are honestly trying to find homes for them. Myself I have a cat that is 20 years old. There are three more kittens in my back yard that I am going to try to trap and give them to loving homes. You should tell people who are adopting cats to not let them wander around outside, especially in the winter. The cold is deadly.
Anyway, I love that you are out there trying. I hope other states will do animal rights. Is there anybody in Oklahoma that is trying to save pets? Keep up the good work. Thank you, Jennette

I've volunteered for Best Friends twice and have had the most amazing, transformative experience both times. They do so much for the animals in their care. The animals have a great deal of space to run free, and they get such good care and love both from the employees and all the volunteers who come to help. It's so peaceful to spend time with the animals in the gorgeous canyon. Best Friends has become a kind of mecca for me and other animal lovers, a place to come to mourn the loss of a beloved pet or just to come to peace with something in your life by helping those in need. Best Friends has saved so many animals by transporting them from shelters to their wonderful facilities. Hopefully someday they can save every one of them.

I am a Guardian Angel (monthly contributor) for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary because of the respectful and determined way they have fought to save the lives of so many of God's creatures. And continue to fight for No-Kill for all.
Beyond that is Angels Rest -- an exquisite lasting memorial to the animal members of our families that have died. This nonprofit organization has carved out a true sanctuary in the beauty of southern Utah to honor hundreds of animals that have nowhere else to be cared for and live.
I am honored to support this fine organization. Rev. Martha M. Moler

Best Friends changed my career and my life! They give so much to the communities that may need a one time grant, volunteers, adoption and spay/neuter events. They keep an eye on other rescues to lend a hand or educate them on feral cat TNR. They provide much needed legislation information and help regular people understand the impact to them.
Best Friends is by far the greatest example of a well organized, responsible and caring non-profit.

Best Friends has always been super helpful and VERY affordable with getting our own kittens as well as our foster Mom cat & 3 kittens vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and microchipped. Vaccinations are on walk in basis, fast, and simple. Spaying/neutering appointments are easy to schedule online and they provided me with excellent post surgery advice and answered questions when I called about any concerns. I like that appointment reminders and which SPECIFIC vaccines needed for future appointments as well as hours/pricing are printed on their receipts & make it easy to understand when your next appointment is. They are very informative about what your pet needs. I can tell they are committed to the animals that come in. I strongly believe in their goal to end euthanization in shelters, less animals on the street, and providing more animals with loving homes & happy, healthy lives. I highly recommend them to anybody.

I Adopted my furry baby from Best friends, and definitely u fell in love with the staff and the facilities, the animals are in good shape and everything is so clean and organized.

It seems like if you're looking a pet hotel.

After I adopted my friend I decided to support the organization, by making monthly donations to help and save them all.

I first visited Best Friends in 2002. Since then I have been back several times. I can't express enough how thankful I Am for this wonderful place. So many animals have been given a second chance at life, because so many people care enough to take in these lost souls.

I have seen what Best Friends has done to help the Vick dogs over come a terrible dog fighting situation. Also, many other animal, through no fault of their own, were thrown away, or owners could no longer care for them.

Thank you,

Karen J. Currie

My first introduction to Best Friends was the Michael Vicks Pit Bull Dogs documentary that showed what Best Friends Animal Society did to save these animals. It was so moving and I was so impressed with the way they handled the dogs. They were wonderful and I believe saved all but one of the dogs. That started my love affair with this group. We have to pick and choose who we give to - there are so many wonderful causes - but this group touched my heart and I try to support them as much as possible. Rock on Best Friends - you make me laugh and cry.

I visiited Best Friends for the second time this past May. And I am continually amazed at how much the staff cares for each animal, knows each of their stories and their individual journeys as they become more comfortable, happy and nurtured at Best Friends. It was such a positive interactive experience, that I truly can't wait to go back and learn more. I only wish I lived closer and could visit more than once a year.

I have volunteered with Best Friends for about 15 years in Salt Lake City and at the Sanctuary in Kanab. BF is unique because of the ability to take on big issues like feral cats, puppy mills, and breed discrimination and offer constructive ways to solve problems. The other thing that makes BF special is the positive approach they take. No depressing videos here; instead you will actually learn about the good news in animal welfare. Thanks Best Friends!

Best Friends is incredible!!!!!!! They have come through in animals' time of need! They saved the "Victory" dogs and showed the world that Pit Bulls are beautiful and gentle even after their HORRIBLE ORDEAL at the hands of a disgusting idiot! Hats off to Best Friends and the incredible loving work they do! Number 1 in my book!!!!!! Donna Andruskiewicz
Best Friends Supporter!

While I have never been to the facility in Utah I am a monthly contributor to this wonderful organization who does believe they can save them all. Their work is well known across the county and the good they have done with animals so abused and cast aside is a true testiment of their passion to save them all. I believe in the work they are doing and hopefully others will also feel as passionate as I do to try and assist Best Friends in saving all these deserving animals who just want to be loved.

I visited Best Friends back in 1991 when it was just getting started and have been a follower of this inspiring organization since then. I have been amazed at the influence Best Friends has had on the United States and especially Los Angeles and CA in getting the non kill movement to be the goal of all animal shelters. I volunteer with a few animal shelters in southern CA and we all look to Best Friends for ideas, assistance and leadership in adoption campaigns, advice on ways to promote no kill policies in our shelters, and helping in taking in hard to place animals. Best Friends is the role model for all shelters in the USA.

We adopted our kitten from Best Friends. She was a graduate from the kitten nursery who initially was labeled failure to thrive. We scooped her 2 pound little body into our arms and brought her home. She is 9 months old now and a whopping 7 pounds. She went from a sad depressed little kitten to an active, funny, playful, crazy kitten. She is so brave being the peacemaker between our older cat and dog. Our family is forever thankful she was given the chance to live and saved by Best Friends. #NKUT

Best Friends Animal Society is an AMAZING organization that is dedicated to the welfare of ALL animals. No animal is ever too small, too weak, too handicapped, too old, or too sick to be offered a loving and caring home. I admire this organization tremendously.

I have seen what happens to pets no longer wanted or lost for more than 30 years - BFAS is the place I would want my dearly beloved pets to go if I were unable or dead. Please help them - they need all the help they can get

Best Friends takes animals that are not adopted from other shelters. Their work has and continues to expand under the banner of Save Them All. Their outreach efforts are making a difference.

Best Friends is a wonderful organization, not just because they rescue animals no matter their health (physically and mentally) or background but because they are addressing a bigger issue. That issue is the number of innocent animals who are killed everyday in shelters all over the country. They are championing this cause that very few have addressed in both words and in action.

I love this place! I drove across Utah to volunteer one day when my husband was at a conference, and didn't arrive in time for the first orientation. I was a bit pouty, but someone had just brought in a tiny dog that had been blinded by some sadist, so they asked me if I would hold her for awhile. I sat in the floor holding, petting, humming, and singing to her. ( and crying, too.) I went off to the afternoon session for volunteers and enjoyed it, but that small dog is the most vivid memory. They thanked me profusely and assured me that the most important part of my day had been that small pup. I donate to them; I have a brick somewhere in the new clinic that I will someday see, and I think they are the most caring group of folk ever. (I've also left instructions that when something happens to me, (if my husband isn't still around) my pets are to be taken there or no one will inherit anything!).

Had it not for the help and assistance of Best Friends Animal Society I would not have been able to learn or participate in the TNR (trap neuter/spay & return) program for all the feral cats where I live! They brought out & loaned me humane cat traps, showed me how to safely trap the cats, helped me set up the traps, taught me how the whole process works'and they also fund the costs of spay/neuter and rabies shots for the feral cats! For low income people they help pay or cover all costs of spay/neuter & shots for ones own pets! because of Best Friends I have been able to feed and take care of the feral cats in my neighborhood and help & teach others as well! Eat friends de has made it possible for me to feed the feral cats & my own when I was unemoloyed with no income. Thank you too for helping me spay & neuter my own cats & dogs with vouchers when I could not afford to do this! I am able to care and keep more cats because of you keeping these cats out of shelters & a have homes! I am an active animal caregiver everyday now because of Best Friends! Thank God for Best Friends in educating the public in the need to trap neuter & return reducing unwanted animals and strays in the community! I could not and would not have learned the need or how to help the feral cats had it not been for Best Friends! We now have 24 less cats where I live because they took the newborn kittens including ones who lost their mothers and all the cats who would have had more cats had they not been fixed! Best Friends are animals best friends and they do help save animals from being euthanized. They go above and beyond thanks to all the émployees & volunteers for the wonderful work you all do.

I love thar Best Friends has come to Los Angeles, with a no-kill shelter. They're helping to convince the rest of the country that no-kill is the way that shelters should be run.

Best friends is a group that springs from the joy of helping without asking for anything in return. they work so hard and protect those who cannot protect themselves. Spreading their message will help bring more help to more animals. they need all of our support whether financial, volunteering and time or spreading their message. please help them reach more people and more people means more support and more support means more animals are saved.

Best Friends Animal Society are truly inspiring, helping animals everyday.

This is the most magical wonderful animal rescue/sanctuary in the world!!! They take in the broken and teach them to be whole again so that they can find their "forever" homes. They took in 22 of the Vick dogs and made them whole again. I cannot say enough about the work that is done in this wonderful, wonderful place!!! Please visit best friends.org.

Our whole family has been inspired by Best Friends Animal Society. My husband and I have rescued as many animals as we can, of all types, for years. When our daughter came along we shared our love and respect of animals with her. She knows all about Best Friends and the work they do for animals. She, and we, have dedicated ourselves to supporting Best Friends and supporting and volunteering for our local no kill shelter. Respect of animals and of life is one of the most important thing to teach a child. The Best Friends Sanctuary is a wonderful place to let the whole family the gift of sharing love and saving lives.

I have visited Best Friends and volunteered there many times. It is a clean, caring, well-run place. Their initiatives, such as Save Them All & TNR Cats, impact the entire country and all the homeless pets in it. If every pound, humane society, rescue, shelter...would follow what Best Friends there would soon be no more homeless pets. I highly recommend learning more about this organization, and visiting if you can.

I foster orphaned kittens for Best Friends. I had one particularly tiny guy last summer. Late one night, he suddenly couldn't move; he cried if anyone even touched him. I called the coordinator after midnight; she immediately authorized a visit to the regular emergency vet. When I got there, they were extremely busy. Afraid he wouldn't last, BF sent us to another vet. I was fairly sure we were going to lose him - he had developed a high fever, and his respiration was dropping. BF could have just let him go - he was terribly ill, the vet bills was going to enormous, and the kitten nursery was full of more than 100 other, healthier kittens. But they didn't. A few weeks later, this little one found his forever home through the Pet Adoption Center. I am proud to say that "Save them all" isn't just a slogan - Best Friends truly lives this goal.

I love this organization. They truly care about animals. All of the volunteers I've come into contact with are lovely. They always put animals first and I love following them online to see the good they've done.

This group has done amazing work with animals. To think millions of cats and dogs are put to sleep every year in shelters breaks my heart. Best Friends works tirelessly on behalf of the animals and they need a voice in their court. I hope someday to visit the sanctuary in Utah but for now donating let's me be a part of the solution to find homes for all animals. They have so much love to give!

I went to Best Friends Animal Society a few years ago and was awed at what they do to save animals. Also, if an animal is not adopted at their facility, he/she will live the rest of his/her life being loved and cared for at Best Friends. They are a superior example of what an animal sanctuary should be - full of love and kindness for all abused and unwanted animals, a best friend! Thank you and God Bless Best Friends.

Best Friends is the gold standard for animal rescue. They are pivotal in the no kill movement with the no more homeless pets campaign. They take animals who have nowhere else to go. They support local rescues. Keep up the great work. You are my heroes.

I follow this society on Facebook. I always enjoy reading about how they have rescued an animal from being abused, or about the updates on animals that they are helping. There needs to be more animal rescues like these around!

I have been watching and supporting Best Friends for 20 years now. i have watched them grow from a small "sanctuary" in Utah, to a national advocacy group for NoKill shelters across the nation. Their outreach has influenced a generation to adopting shelter pets as opposed to those bred in puppy mills. They have been influential in changing attitudes and laws regarding breed discrimination. When ever there is a natural disaster, Best Friends, is there making sure the animals are also rescued. they are the #1 animal rights organization in the US.

I first heard of Best Friends in 1998 and have been a contributor ever since. This is not just a shelter, but a real loving home for every species that needs one. The animals' needs are met. They get excellent medical care and their staff loves the animals like their own. I was particularly touched by the loving, tender, and relentless dedication to rehabilitating the pit bulls known as "Vicktory Dogs". I wish every state had a Best Friends."

I first met the founders of Best Friends in 1991 when they were fundraising in my small town in the San Francisco Bay Area. Two years later, I visited the sanctuary for the first time. I was captivated by the people and the place -- and especially by the animals. Since those early times, I have visited the sanctuary every summer for the past seven years. I am constantly impressed and awed by the love and commitment everyone associated with Best Friends demonstrates. Every year when I visit I stay in a cottage behind Horse Haven and I spend time in all the animal areas. I work with the dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and pigs. I talk with the caregivers and with other volunteers. And all I hear from others -- and see for myself -- is that the sanctuary continues to be a miraculous haven for homeless, abused, and abandoned animals. I cherish my time at Best Friends, and consider myself fortunate to be associated with this extraordinary organization.

Best friends is providing a great environment for those that cannot speak or care for themselves. It is something that I have dreamed of doing since I was in grade school a sanctuary for animals!

I visited Best Friends in October 2009 and was most impressed with the dedicated knowledgeable and caring people there. All the animals needs were being met including food, shelter, exercise, play and human interaction. Visiter are greeted upon arrival and given a tour of the site. There was a variety of animals that we saw including dogs, cats, pot bellied pigs and horses. We were invited to interact with the animals either by walking dogs, playing with cats etc. visiters could take dogs to their hotel rooms for an evening and were given food, toys, bedding and instructions on how to look after the dog we were taking home. We were permitted to walk our 'dog' so that the animal could be socialized to the street and to other people. It was an amazing experience visiting Best Friends. Most impressive of all was how well run, clean and inviting this no-kill shelter was. This letter by no means does justice to the fantastic organization, the many volunteers and staff who make a great quality of life for the many animals they look after. Please visit their website for a more in-depth view of Best Friends. I am hoping to return there in the near future - this time with my 87 year old mother!

I have been supporting this non-profit from afar for a very long time and I felt they were a good organization. In 2014 I visited the sanctuary in Kanab and was blown away by the magnitude of the effort, the serenity of the canyon, the happiness of the souls that are saved and the tirelessness efforts by the care givers! Reading the national volunteer facebook pages validates my emotions both during and after my first sanctuary volunteer outing - it is simply a life changing trip to a life changing organization in a truly life affirming location. GREAT WORK BEST FRIENDS !

This amazing nonprofit is truly "no kill" for all the animals it saves. In addition, they share their knowledge with other's so that maybe in my lifetime no healthy animal will have to die.

Best Friends is an inspiring facility! Their "Save Them All" moto is true to their mission. My family's favorite vacation spot is a stay with Best Friends and an opportunity to volunteer with the animals.

I have followed, supported and donated to Best friends for many years. They have helped lead the nation in promoting a no-kill philosophy through their tireless efforts of rescuing, providing medical care, and rehabilitating all manner of wonderful creatures, including dogs, cats, horses, birds to name a few. They took many of the most severely abused "Vic" dogs, eventually adopting out many to loving homes. They are there during natural disasters and take extreme cases of abused animals. This is an organization consisting of caring individuals dedicated to improving the lives of animals suffering from abuse and neglect. They truly represent the goodness in mankind.

Best friends always steps up to help some of the toughest babies recover when others can't or won't. They are rock stars!

I visited Best Friends several years ago. As a lifelong animal lover and rescue mom, I found their sanctuary to be a little piece of heaven. It is a beautiful place not only because of their location (Angel Canyon), but also because of all the lives that are saved. The work that they do at Best Friends is truly inspiring. All animals are given a safe loving place to wait for their forever home, no matter how long that wait may take. It was very apparent on my visit that the staff and volunteers truly care about the animals in their facility...God bless them all for the good work they do!

Best friends is an awesome organization that saves many lives. I donate monthly to them . Please consider donating to continue to allow them to help the helpless !

I have been following Best Friends for a few years now, I have read their book and will be spending a week and a half out there in October to take a class and volunteer. I would love nothing more than to do what they are doing for these animals, it is a ton of work but very much needed. They are the charity that means the most to me.

I have known of Best Friends for more years than I can remember, I have been inspired by their stories and their generosity to all animals without asking for donations. I , when I can, send whatever change I have and know that it goes to support Best Friends (Dogtown, the Rabbit homes, kittens and so forth). Their name is known everywhere because of their wonderful work and giving care to all creatures (including the human ones who show up needing an uplifting experience). To see the dogs, cats and other critters thrive in this enviroment makes my heart swell with the knowledge that there are animal safe havens such as Best Friends.

This no-kill shelter really works with each animal, helping to get them ready for a forever home no matter how long it takes. They run a beautiful facility that is clean and welcoming, and everyone is very nice. So many success stories come out of there!!

So I was never close to any dog or cat growing up, I never hated them but one day something happened that changed my life forever. I was working in a building and people who had dogs were coming and going and I stood outside and asked myself "Who could love a cat or dog?" The question suddenly popped up in my head. Then about two months later there was this young man who lived in the building and was given a brown and white pit bull pup. The first time I saw the pup it was as if something hit me over the head and I fell in love, ironically it seemed as if something was proving to me that the very question that I asked myself a few months before was being answered right there and then. I need no more proof that dogs and cats are something more that just meets the eye. She was so in sync with me it was so magical. I still think of her every day, but the story is a long one, I am writing a book about this story, but in narrative fiction, Hoping to donate some of the profits to charity. I have a long way to go. But I try to write a little bit everyday.

I learned about Best Friends many years ago and I send small support to them every month. I wish I had lots to give but I don't. I have a sister who is an animal lover in West Virginia. I live in Arkansas. My sister called me to ask me how to take care of baby opossums whose mother had been run over. I immediately called Best Friends in Utah and they connected my sister to a lady in West Virginia who came to my sister's home, took the babies and raised them. We will be forever indebted to Best Friends. They really do everything possible for animals.

Love the work they do, wonderful charity. I hope they are able to continue for a long time as they made a big difference so far.

I am so moved by everything that Best Friends does for animals and ultimately, for people. They dedicated themselves to a goal (a very difficult one indeed) and they are getting there. There is no way to do that without a lot of blood, sweat, tears, donations and grants to support their efforts. Oh, and volunteers. I just became one because I believe in them. 100%.

Best Friends Animal Society has been around for a long time helping animals when others wouldn't/couldn't. All animals deserve a chance. Best Friends educates the public, assists other shelters and leads the way in saving companion animals. I spent several days at their sanctuary in Utah this spring. I was overwhelmed by their commitment and care to saving the animals. Every single worker was dedicated to the animals in his/her care and educating the volunteers. Great organization with tremendous heart. I have been to many shelters and usually leave heartbroken. However, at the end of my volunteer experience at Best Friends, I was, for the first time, hopeful for the animals I left behind. They have a very clear mission and everyone is working toward the same goals! Love them.

Best Friends Animal Society is NOT just 1 amazing place...It's an amazing network of people & places dedicated to saving those animals that needs help the most!
Millions of healthy animals are killed across North America daily but, every animal that crosses Best Friends is 1 less.

Giving animals a safe place to live out their days when shelters kill them is a magnificent thing. Maybe one day all shelters will be no kill by example.

I went to Kanab to visit and volunteer at Best Friends years ago and was so impressed by the caretakers there, the doctors, the trainers, everyone I met. I participated in the program they had that allowed volunteers staying in the area to take one of the dogs with me at the end of each day to help socialize them and give them some individual attention. Each day I took a sweet dog back to my hotel room in Kanab, walked them, took them to the shops and restaurants in Kanab, and filled out the evaluation form for each dog to give the caretakers feedback on each dog. The last dog I took touched my heart so much I absolutely fell in love with him. Ace was a sweet, previously abused pit/lab mix who was so fearful and shy I had to carry him into the hotel room - he was so frightened. He trembled for hours. But by the next morning, when I dropped him back off at the sanctuary, we had already bonded. The look on his face as I left to drive back to the airport just ripped my heart out. The next day back in New Jersey, I called the sanctuary and began the adoption process. Ace had already had ACL surgery at Dogtown hospital and he was about to have surgery on his other back knee. Two months later he was on the mend and on his way to New Jersey to live with me. He had to rehab his knees and work on his manners to fit in with my other dog and he had many, many fears to overcome. The trainers and doctors at BF continued to work with me as long as I needed them by offering support and advice. Ace was a beautiful soul who just a few years later saved my life when things turned dark and hopeless for me when I lost my job and then lost my home. Ace was there to keep me going ... for me, for him, for us. So I will forever be grateful to Best Friends for sending my angel Ace to save my life. God bless.

I spent a week-end at Best Friends Animal Society with a couple of friends and was so happy to be there! We volunteered our time to help where needed, and got to know a few of the dogs by keeping them over-night in our on-site cabin! We visited all areas of the campus, enjoying the birds, pigs, horses, cats and other animals housed there. The staff is so friendly and professional, and our days were so busy the time flew by to fast. I will definatly return!

Best Friends does an amazing job saving animals and raising awareness to the issues surrounding homeless animals. I live in LA and frequently visit their NKLA adoption center and it is just beautiful!! The staff and volunteers are very knowledgeable and the facilities are amazing. All animals seem to have a great quality of life and are treated the best possible way to help them reach their potential.
I volunteer at the West LA animal shelter, and every time one of our animals gets rescued to go to NKLA I just know they have won the lottery.

We are seniors who live on Social Security. Consequently, we are very particular where we donate funds. Whenever I can we donate to Best Friends because I know they do great work and are caring and compassionate. The "voiceless" amongst us NEED Best Friends. They are an abandoned or handicapped animal's BEST FRIEND and I thank them for their relentless work.

Most amazing place I've ever been. I am a donor, a continuing student and a volunteer, not to mention a huge fan and advocate. I also adopted a most wonderful dog from Old Friends. I have never met such warm, caring, generous and compassionate people, from the founders down to the caregivers and admins. BFAS has inspired and empowered me to pave my own path to compassion by starting a hospice for senior and disabled dogs. I will continue to support their work and efforts to teach the world that 'saving them all' is a realistic goal. Love is redefined at Best Friends.

Best Friends Animal Society is a premier animal shelter, conceived by pioneer philanthropists with HEARTS for the lifelong welfare of animals. These dedicated employees and volunteers take in any animal, from around the world, to help it's ability to live well and not to die a terrible death, either from neglect, abuse, or from being [murdered] in an "animal pound." The stories from this society are legend regarding the amount of lives saved and turned to the better, gross neglect turned to health, and miraculously, loving forever families found. I am not personally a volunteer, but I would if I lived near by. It is my privilege to donate on a monthly basis to this most worthy charity. It is also my intention to leave a generous stipend to Best Friends in my will. The world is a better place because of Best Friends. I can rest assured that atleast somewhere, animals are treated with the kindness, generosity, and loving care they so truly deserve. I say God bless Best Friends Animal Society.

A great and beautiful animal rescue. They have every type of animal possible and are super dedicated to making their lives the best they can possibly be, starting with finding them a family. The place is emmaculate and the animals very well cared for with lots of love. I also love the way the are helping through out the US to make all animal shelters no kill shelters.

Best Friends is the epitome of animal rescue. They have helped countless animals of all kinds live. By saving them, vetting them, and socializing these animals they give them a second chance at life. It is what I would want to do if I won the lottery.

I have been a longtime supporter of the no-kill movement. Even though I live in Minnesota, I learned about Best Friends Animal Society from a close friend. I fell in love with this place from the first day I read about it. I cannot donate great amounts, but when I can, I donate to Best Friends. We were driving home from Arizona in April, and I saw the sign for Best Friends. I did not realize that we would be driving right by! We stopped there, and I was amazed at what I saw. We drove through the dog town areas, saw the horses and other animals--and saw so many dogs wearing yellow "Adopt Me" vests while walking with volunteers. My only regret was that we did not have time to stay in one of the cottages and host a guest animal...well, and I do regret that I could not bring one of the "Adopt Me" dogs home with me!! Maybe next year! I cannot think of another non-profit that touches me the way that Best Friends does. They are the best of the best, and what they do for our animals is beyond just charity work--it is the work of the soul.

Best Friends doesn't just "talk the talk," they "walk the walk." I see it in the faces of all the animals that they save. That's why we support all their efforts. Keep up the great work. Thanks for all you do. Jan Salas

I have been a donor, a volunteer and adoptive parent to two dogs so from multiple angles, I can tell you that Best Friends is a fantastic organization. Lots of organizations have good causes - Best Friends combines the cause with great use of resources, an impressive system for allowing volunteers to assist for a few hours or days and an amazingly successful campaign to support local organizations doing similar work. A+!

I worked in an open admission municipal shelter for 7 years, before I couldn't cope with the compassion fatigue any longer. I took a break, and worked in social services, but I missed the passion I feel working with animals.
I applied to Best Friends, and journeyed there for a 2 week working interview. I was offered a position, but was unable to find housing that would accept my 3 dogs.
So, I decided to use my new knowledge and rekindled spark locally. I accepted a position as the director of a local Humane Society.
I am using everything I learned at Best Friends every day. From tnr/snr programs, open adoption, behavior work, and never giving up, Best Friends showed me that with enough flexibility, forward thinking, and commitment, we really can save them all.

Best Friends L.A. is so creative with their outreach services. They have dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly morning and night. I saw them at the West Hollywood Pride and appreciate the education and awareness they bring! You guys are amazing!

My husband and I visited Best Friends earlier this month as part of our honeymoon trip to Utah. We ate a delicious vegan lunch at their conference facility, and spent the rest of the day taking a tour of the facility. They are extremely well-organized and the animals are clearly happy and well cared for. We were so inspired that we became members that same day, and even my husband- who is a hard-core carnivore - bought a Best Friends hoodie at the gift ship. We had no idea they were connected to facilities all over the U.S.! We feel good knowing we are contributing to such an amazing organization with a clearly effective plan.

Where,do I begin? I have been there and it brings you to tears this beautiful amazing Grace of a place...I wish all animals could feel the love and beauty of these people and whay they do...ones waiting for a good home that is...I want to go back and volunteer in my retirement years...I pray I can! It's closest thing to animal heaven!

I had been volunteering the weekend some years ago when they had just taken in all of Michael Vick's abused dogs. They successfully found homes for almost every single dog. There were people that were working with them helping to get them over their fears. They were patient and helped them to become adoptable. If it wasn't for the people at Best Friends..Im sure these dogs would have been destroyed. What a feeling to save someone's life (be it animal or human) that others might have given up on!!

I have visited a few times. Their mission is one of humbling compassion. Love flows from their hearts. Hey-They even rehab - ed done Michael Vick pitties! They never give up.

As an animal lover, I watch many animal sanctuaries and rescues and I'm always impressed by the Best Friends Animal Society. They go above and beyond when it comes to the care and rehabilitation of animals and always to their best to heal and nuture the animals. It's a great organization.

Noone does it better than Best Friends. Their tagline says it all: "Save Them All." And everything they do, everything they say, every mailing, email and Facebook post going out supports that mission. When you walk onto the Sanctuary and see the work being done there, you know it's not just hype. When you talk with everyone from a worker in the gift shop to one of the founders, you know the extent of the commitment. The workshops are superb; their magazine and marketing publications are on target. When you attend their national conferences, you come across with full minds, toolboxes, and hearts. We have been BF members, donors, and volunteers for more than a decade, and I am always heartened to know that every dime goes toward getting us further down the road to Save Them All. No organization can survive with just a good heart and good intentions. BF has mastered the balance of compassion and activism with superb business sense. As I said, noone does it better!

I don't have an adoption story from Best Friends, but I am a donor and the work they do is far above the call of duty. This is the BEST and Best Friends really are.

I have been a supporter of Best Friends ever since I stepped off a plane in Las Vegas. Someone was in the airport promoting Best Friends and I have been a friend ever since. I give what I can and when I can. We also help some people who support a catch and release program in our town. He takes care of some cats who live in an area. We visit to make sure they are ok , every day. Best Friends supports all local areas and encourages others to care about the free animals in the neighborhoods. We have 3 cats and 2 dogs who were all strays. Our vet bills are high due to our dog having many problems from being an inbred dog of a puppy mill. Best Friends is about ALL NEIGHBORHOODS pulling together. Do what you can and when you can. Best Friends appreciates all that you do. Donate to them today and save your local animals. We can save them all.

Such an inspiring goal--to end needless euthanasia for companion animals.

From the amazing story of how this group got started to the outstanding means of educating the public on bully breeds. Best Friends and what they do for our furry friends is heartwarming and inspiring. If there were more groups like Best Friends this world would be a better place.

Best Friends is the standard by which all other animal rescue and sheltering organizations should be measured.

I sincerely hope that the Best Friends model will be replicated all over the country.

of course, we can save them all and best friends proves it every single day. through organization and dedication to the cause of saving animals they are showing the world that this can be done.

I have followed Best Friends for years, and when I was working, I donated money to them whenever I could. When I can, I buy a lottery ticket here in S.C. and I always say to myself...if I win big...they will be one of the first ones on my list that I will help. This organization is so wonderful. The team that works there are just an amazing, caring group of people. If I lived near them....I would love to volunteer. There are so many animals that are euthanized every day, and Best Friends does more than their share to prevent this ....they can't do it alone...but they help as many as they possibly can. Of all the organizations out there...I have to say...this one has my vote, hands down!!

Sincerely, Kathy McGuffin

Best Friends was one of the first groups in the nation to work towards a no-kill society. They not only help animals in their area, but have expanded to help rescue groups all over the country. They educate people, train people to save animals, and work towards laws to protect animals in this country. They help all kinds of animals - not just dogs and cats. Their philosophy is a philosophy that I admire greatly and they have helped SO many people and animals.

This is the BEST animal shelter in the world! I visited and volunteered, and I can guarantee you these folks are really making a difference in animal lives. Their facility is clean, well staffed, friendly and animal oriented. They do such great work in rescuing animals of every variety, caring for them, and loving every one of them.

I truly love this charity and their philosophy. I believe in them so much that I have a non profit business and send 100% of what I make to Best Friends.

Best Friends Animal Society is an amazing organization and an incredible inspiration to numerous other animal rescue groups. I toured the facility once about 15 years ago and was impressed beyond belief. Though every part of the tour was interesting, I remember feeling so moved by the buildings and staff dedicated to caring for and treating, rather than euthanizing, cats with leukemia and other serious problems. They even allowed my German wire-haired pointer Penny to accompany me on most of the tour and take their beautiful nature hike!

This is the non-profit to which I will leave a substantial trust for my two larger parrots, a CAG and U2, so that they may be either cared for by Best Friends after I pass or adopted out to a great new parront for my babies. I contribute monthly now, but my plan is to make sure my parrots are well taken care of upon my death and no other rescue in the entire US is as good as Best Friends. I live in FL and am involved in dog and parrot rescue so I have no other reason to leave this review except that I feel strongly that everyone should know what a fabulous job they do for all animals. Thanks Best Friends...you are my hero

Adopting from Best Friends is one of the best decisions I ever made. A few months ago I went on their website and found a cat whose profile I absolutely fell in love with. I emailed them, and they were able to help me adopt her. They paid for the expense of driving her up to me (about a five hour drive) and supplied me with starter food, medical records, blankets, a carrier, and toys--all for free! They also do specials where people can get animals at a reduced cost; I got my cat for free! Best Friends' work helps to save animals lives, but I believe --and know--that it helps to save people's lives too, by easily and efficiently connecting them with animals. I have been struggling with severe depression and my cat from Best Friends is one of the things that has helped me the most with that. It is amazing to see how much time and effort they give to helping animals in need. I LOVE BEST FRIENDS!

Best Friends' dedication to caring for animals who are in need is to be admired. I am so grateful to know that there are still those who find value in every life. Seeing the remarkable changes they make in rehabilitating what seem to be lost causes is inspiring. I wish there could be more organizations doing this kind of work on this scale!

Best Friends is an incredible organization that saves so many precious animal lives. Their sanctuary is top notch and so is their volunteer program. Most importantly, they inspire individuals to DO SOMETHING about homeless pets right where they live. They are leaders in animal behavior programs that rehabilitate animals that would otherwise be euthanized. They are what most shelters want to be when they grow up!

The BEST FRIENDS organization is just that--the BEST! They work tirelessly to save the lives of all cats and dogs and then find them loving forever homes. I believe with my whole heart that they will succeed in having LA be a No Kill state for domestic animals.

This is a superlative group. They are fine advocates in Texas, effecting the passage of two vital pro-animal laws this year. Their work is efficient and effective and successful.

While on vacation in Utah we were fortunate to be able to visit Best Friend Animal Society. This dedicated group of people take care of neglected and unwanted animals that others have thrown away. They deserve all of the help available!

We need more charities like this to save and promote awareness for animals in shelters.

I am friends on FB. They are always doing wonderful things for animals. I wish for more like them.

Best Friends is a miracle worker for animals that have nowhere else to turn. I have donated for years but 9 months ago had my first chance to visit and saw for myself how each and every creature is loved and cared for by the amazing caregivers and other staff.

My late mother and I have supported Best Friends for years. Organizations don't come much better than this for animal welfare. They actually put their money where their mouth is. Always ready to step in to help in a bad situation, and the permanent facility they maintain is just the best and a standard to strive for in the animal welfare universe.

My husband and I have been donating to Best Friends for years. My sister has visited their Utah compound and was totally impressed with all the facilities and care for the numerous rescue animals. They are spreading out and partnering with other no-kill shelters throughout the US to get more help to those rescuing. They take in difficult cases of abuse and get them the care they need and help find homes for them. I love everything about this place and the people who run it. Kudos.

Best Friends sets the bar for every animal rescue to follow. I help local rescues, who are forever in need due to the volume of animals that are homeless, abused and abandoned. BF covers all that bases - vetting animals for adoption, teaching, spearheading local events to raise money and awareness and encourage the volunteers that are essential to changing things, that there is hope to save them all. I work with other non-profits, but the animal groups are number 1, and BF leads the way.

Bringing joy to people and animals.

Three years ago, my husband and I were contemplating adding a dog to our household but overwhelmed by the prospect. The caring staff and volunteers at Best Friends helped us find the perfect dog to fit our home, and we feel blessed to have Foxy with us every day, thanks to Best Friends.

I am just amazed at the good work that is done by Best Friends Animal Society. I help a local cat rescue by fostering special needs cats and at a recent adoption event, I was looking at my Facebook page and was reading a post made by Best Friends. A woman that was looking to adopt one of our cats saw the post and mentioned that she had adopted a cat from Best Friends a few years ago. We started talking about all the wonderful work they do, and soon-yet another woman stopped and was talking about possibly adopting a dog she had seen on Best Friends through Facebook. They may not realize how many people out here have noticed their posts...some even adopting from them...but word spreads very quickly at these events and I keep hearing very, very good things about Best Friends. Their good work and kindness spreads far and wide. What a great example they are of what Animal Rescue is all about! They are the BEST!

The life changing work that Best Friends does for animals who have no other place to go has inspired me to get involved locally. I saved the life of a doggie who was near eurhanization and is now the love of my 4 year old daughter's life. They lead by example and are changing the world one paw at a time.

In 2009 my wife and I were looking for a rescue Dog and my mother-in-law alerted us to Best Friends Society. We visited their beautiful sanctuary in Kanab, Utah where we found our new best friend. A beautiful black lab, 6 months old was waiting for us with his brothers and sisters who were also looking for a home.

By the time we picked him up he had already been studying hard in his puppy classes and knew how to sit, lie down and "come" on command. He only took 2 weeks to be house trained as well. All thanks to the wonderful people at Best Friends.

6 years later, he continues to amaze us. We could not imagine our lives without our boy. Best Friends has been the most rewarding experience ever in terms of working with a non-profit. We are supporters for life now.

Sincerely,
Denis Brosnan

I have volunteered at Best Friends and found it extremely rewarding. They are doing good for the animals. However, I find their form 990 of their 2012 Tax return disturbing. The total compensation for the officers and directors is around $1,000,000 and their total revenue for 2012 was approximately $64 million with $17 million going to animal care activities and $26 million for salaries and benefits. Of the officers and directors three of them are paid approximately $190,000 per year. Animal food and medical care is only approximately $4 million. About $6 million goes to fund raising. This seems out of balance to me. They are really good at raising money but not so good at spending it on the animals. I will continue to volunteer my time but not my money.

I have volunteered here many times over the years. It is incredibly well run by caring individuals and great volunteers.

I was lucky enough to visit the sanctuary and "work" in the various cat houses every day for a week and I can't tell you how wonderful Best Friends is. The work they do to eliminate unnecessary euthanasia
and to help animals everyone else has given up on is incredible. I wish there were more places like Best Friends around the world because if there were - this world would be a better place for all of us - especially our animal friends!

I felt that this was a very good organization at first. However, they provide money donated by others in instances that deception and unlawful actions take place.

I wrote to them about San Antonio, Texas - Animal Care Services (ACS) unlawful acts that cause the deaths of many animals. Best Friends had no interest, even though they donate a great deal of other people's money to ACS.

I sent them a link to my article to outline what is taking place.

Animal Care Service's history of deception in San Antonio, TX
http://www.examiner.com/article/animal-care-service-s-history-of-deception-san-antonio-tx

BFAS has implemented an intentionally deceptive strategy to great success, but if you do your own, simple online research, you will soon uncover the truth. BFAS was actually originally founded as a cult religion by a few rich British kids. Your read it right. BFAS's original name was the Process Church of the Final Judgment. That's just the beginning..See for yourself at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Best_Friends_Animal_Society

Interviewed Charles Manson and featured him on the cover of their magazine? Yep!

Only began "raising money for animals" when they realized more people in England would give donations if they said the money would help animals.

Paid board members! That's right, a process illegal in most states - paying your board salaries - the board made up of the founding fathers of the Process Church - they are paid salaries to impartially vote on matters that affect the future of BFAS and how it spends your money. The BBB and Charity Navigator both point this out in their red flag reports.

This organization's story is exceedingly sad and the truth hurts. But let this be a lesson - with enough money and great, heart-gripping marketing stories, we all can be duped into supporting something we never would if we just took a few minutes to find out a little more information. Do your research. Google terms like "truth about..." followed by the name of the charity you're thinking of supporting. You may be shocked. I was!

Find the rest of the sad truth at:

http://www.thedogpress.com/Columns/BestFriends1-06101-Jade.asp

http://www.animalliberationfront.com/AR_Orgs/Best%20Friends-beginnings.htm

I had donated to Best Friends for several years before I visited the Sanctuary and volunteered there. Now I donate more. It is impossible to adequately describe the Sanctuary. It is huge! They have all sorts of animals there divided into different areas. The staff is totally committed to the best interests of the animals and they all seem to love their jobs.That this was developed by a small group of dedicated individuals is phenomenal! Donating to Best Friends is not just donating to this Sanctuary in Utah. Best Friends has outreach programs that impact all areas of the country. There main focus is to bring about a time of no more homeless pets. Best Friends members have made significant strides in Los Angeles where sales of dogs in pet stores is now banned. The New York group rescued a group of Beagles from a laboratory a few years ago. Teams of Best Friends are among the first on the scene at disasters to help the animals. They spent 6 months in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. They are actively working throughout the country to strike down breed specific legislation aimed at pit bull type dogs. They rehabilitated the worst of Michael Vick's fighting dogs and have adopted several of them out into loving homes. The training methods they use are really very simple, involving patience and love instead of domination and punishment. This charity has grown to become one of the"big guys" in the animal world and many people are critical of this. But this enables them to have the outreach I mentioned above and give aid and grants to other groups working toward a time of no more homeless pets. I could go on for days about the wonderful things this group does! My donation dollars go to local rescues and to Best Friends.

My only sadness about Best Friends Animal Society and its sanctuary in Kanab UT is that not everyone is aware of the effort, excellence and enthusiasm by these dedicated animal lovers and caregivers. Multiple visits, volunteering at the sanctuary, continues to reinforce my admiration for the professional staff and their ceaseless efforts to affect the attitude and behavior of the animals and birds under their care. Their mission, "No More Homeless Pets" is woven into the fabric of their operations and mindsets. The flow of volunteers visiting the sanctuary, including myself, quickly learn that love and best intentions are not adequate to improve the lives of these smallest of God;s creatures. Instead, I learned about patience and persistence as well as relying on the expertise of the Best Friends professionals: if I wanted to make an impact upon animals who still are wary of humans, due to past experiences. Stimulated by my experiences there, and informed and educated by Best Friends sponsored Workshops, I re-enter my own community with commitment to aid local Shelters in any way, too.

I donated $10.00 to this charity to help out any hurt and abandoned animals from the Hurricane Sandy disaster in New York City. This is a great charity because it make sure they can help out animals without putting them down. And you don't just choose this charity, but they give you an option to state any specifics on how your donation is used. So many people send money to hurt people, sick people, which is extremely important, but there are so many animals that need help too, and those animals can't help themselves, so I feel the Best Friends Animal Society is doing a great job at making sure those animals aren't forgotten. Please help out these poor, innocent, and defenseless animals are taken care of, and I wish to thank this charity to coming into existence so I can make a donation to do my part. I don't know for sure that anything was done, but I'm sure it was used and made a difference.

I have been donating to Best Friends for a number of years now mostly because of the amazing work they do to help creatures large and small either find a forever home or gives them a wonderful place to call home. The work they have done with re-branding Pit Bulls is fantastic. I would love to live closer so I could volunteer to help with the loving environment they create.

Best Friends does incredible work providing a no-kill shelter for all animals in need. I wish we had more organizations like them.

I have been a monthly automatic donor to Best Friends Animal Society for years. Last week I had the chance to visit the Sanctuary near Kanab, UT. It was beyond my expectations. They do lovely van tours. The area is just beautiful, and everyone is really nice and welcoming. There is so much love in the air, and you can tell everyone just loves what they are doing. There are some beautiful things to see in the area, not the least of which are Zion National Park, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and best of all (IMHO), Moqui Cave. If you ever think about visiting Best Friends, don't miss it.

i volunteer with Best Friends and have seen first hand how they help in disasters (Katrina) setting up an area to help the animals, providing medical care and shelter for the animals in need. They do more than any other animal organization that i know of. They aslo support other group by giving them grants and offer courses in how others can set up their own rescue. They are incredibly supportive and encouraging. They also help train vets in other countries to learn how to spay & neuter. i can not say enough good things about Robin Harmon, one of their employees who has the biggest heart of any one i know. They are making a huge difference in the lives of many many animals and also humans.

This used to be the most admirable animal sanctuary in the country when it was managed by Michael Mountain, but it's been a steady downhill ever since.

Gregory Castle's background more than 10 years back is a complete mystery; certainly he is not a recognized top-notch animal welfare professional. He has some vague history in church and accounting prior to his work with No More Homeless Pets in Utah.

Recently BFAS conducted a nationwide search (via a pricey head-hunter) for a Chief Marketing Officer and a Chief Development Officer -- both jobs with salaries up to $180,000. Gregory Castle's wife, a nice lady with breast cancer and no marketing experience, landed the CMO job.

Michael Mountain took an extremely modest five-figure salary during his entire tenure at BFAS, so to see six-figure salaries (which in Kanab, Utah, is completely uncalled for) becoming routine is very disturbing.

Do you want your donation of $25 or $50 to be just a pittance to these people?

And by the way, they make over $50 million/year and care for at most 2000 animals. Do the math: that's $25,000 per animal. Heck, in Kanab, Utah, you could build a small house for every animal with that much money.

Where is the money going, Best Friends?

Best Friends is just wonderful. They help so many broken animals. I love the stories they tell about some of their animals. Plus they send cool videos. I love O. He is not very handsome but he sure is fun!
I have been a donor for a very long time. I trust what they do with the money I give. I admire the founders, they are very special. The most important part of BF is everyone who works, volunteers,or just visit for a day love the animals with there whole heart. I thank God for the wonderful place and I thank everyone who care for the animals. This is
send with my heart full of love for the animals and the wonderful people. God Bless You. Louise Reardon and my dogs Olivia. Mazie Grace,Penelope, Maggie and all of our cats.

My son discovered Best Friends via the television show Dog Town. We went out this summer and volunteered for a week. The place is amazing and it's all about the animals and not the tourists. I am also a donor and gladly help them with the amazing work they are doing!

I have watched Best Friends help some animals that people had given up on and come out with such heartfelt results. They never give up. The animals at Best Friends get the very best treatment and all the attention, affection, love and training.

They rescued quite a few of the Vick dogs and were able to rehabilitate and give them forever homes. They have also rescued dogs from hoarders and puppy mills. They are truly the angels of shelters. They are actually more than a shelter, they are a community in itself.

God Bless the people of Best Friends, they are truly dedicated.

A friend and I visited Best Friends last October. Visiting there was on my bucket list and I fulfilled my wish. It is a wonderful place that is set in some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen. The staff there were so helpful to all the volunteers. You could see that they loved their jobs - who wouldn't! - and they are so loving and caring toward all the animals there. All the facilities were immaculate. The lunches were wonderful and served in a very scenic location. Angel's Rest was the most spiritual place I have ever been in. A beautiful setting - the chimes blowing in the soft breeze. What a wonderful place for your pet to be placed. I can think of nothing that was negative there. I just wish we could have stayed longer. I pray that I will be able to make the trip back again. We traveled thousands of miles to visit there. I just wish there was a Best Friends close to my home. I would spend all my time volunteering there. God Bless you Best Friends for the amazing work you do and the loving care to all the animals in your care there and also all the good work you do around the country.

I have volunteered at Best Friends for the last three years and I could say without any hesitation, these guys are amazing! Not only do they do a wonderful job of taking care of the animals on their sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, they also offer seminars, and lectures for any rescue group looking for information and guidance on how to run their own successful organization. The whole volunteer experience at Best Friends is great! They start you off with an overview (or orientation) of the sanctuary. Then, they have you sign up to work with the animals you would feel most comfortable working with (i.e. dogs, cats, pigs, etc.) You can chose a variety of duties, not limited to cleaning, or feeding, but things like walking, brushing, talking a dog on an "outing" or "sleepover". The staff at Best Friends is incredible. They make you feel like part of the team. It is very comfortable.

Best Friends is an outstanding organization that literally helps thousands of animals both at the sanctuary where they can live out their furever lives and in the home of the lucky individuals who adopt from them. I recently took the Emergency Rescue Training and have learned even more about this great organization. If you haven't been to the sanctuary in Utah you must go and meet the pigs, dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, horses and all the rest. My favorite part is the exceptional steps they take for those animals who suffer disabilities. I just can't say enough great things about them. I am a Guardian and a Sponsor for Squeaky - one of the pigs. Please join me and help out one of the many, many animals in need.

It may sound like a cliche, but I found my best friend, King, at Best Friends. King was an older dog and had been in two other homes prior to his stint at BF through no fault of his own. At most shelters, King would have been put down but not at Best Friends! He was ere, waiting just for me. That was three years ago and I have loved every minute of my elder friend who hikes, swims, backpacks and snuggle with me.

BTW, I also do volunteer for this organization and it is a wonderful experience.

I had the opportunity to volunteer with Best Friends for a couple of weeks along with some family members several summers ago. I had always heard wonderful things about Best Friends, but the experience vastly exceeded my expectations. I have volunteered for over a dozen animal welfare and rescue organizations, and Best Friends is by far the finest. The animal enclosures are innovative, spacious, appropriate, and well enriched. Animal care, nutrition, and socialization practices are progressive and superior to what most animals receive in private homes, forget in a rescue/shelter environment. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and the volunteer program well organized. And finally, the organization's mission and philosophy are admirable and fully reflected by the work they do. As someone who has been doing private rescue for roughly ten years, Best Friends is my go-to standard for how I can improve upon my own practices. This is absolutely what every rescue should be striving to emulate.

Best Friends is a fine example of collaboration, caring and efficiency. They have an amazing network of volunteers, a well chosen and caring staff and their reach is incredible. From rescuing animals in the wake of disasters, matching pets with forever homes and advocating on behalf of all sorts of animals, they are unmatched when it comes to living their motto..."No More Homeless Pets."

Kudos to Best Friends!

Best Friends is a godsend for animals. It provides a loving forever home for many animals. I was worried about volunteering after visiting other animal shelters. Best Friends was totally different, filled with people who really care about the animals and appreciate the volunteers. Our favorite place was Rescue Village, with all the rabbits. We really liked Dave and Terry (I think Terry), who give it their all each day and know all the
rabbits, their diagnoses and idiosyncrasies. I am proud to have volunteered, will do so again. My husband and I live in Florida, and when we decided to work this summer we
Oochose to work at Ruby's RV Park, specifically close to Kanab so we could volunteer.

I think what they do is great. Their memorial tribute and sanctuary to our beloved pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge is beyond words. I live in Wisconsin and am unable to come to the area but I would if I could. My Sophie is a young 2 year old yellow lab mix who I hope is with us for a very long time. I can only hope that when it is her time to cross the Rainbow Bridge that it is peaceful and on her terms. I would love to have a sanctuary like this in my area.

I first became aware of Best Friends through the television show "Dog Town". I saw the love and dedication the staff has for the animals that come to Best Friends , as well as other animals that have a need . But what really showed me what they were made of was when they took in the Vicks dogs. They wasted no energy on Vicks or his actions, what mattered was the dogs. That's when I realized that here was a group of people with singleness of purpose. I admire them, respect them and I'm grateful for the job they do.

Best Friends has to be heaven on Earth to the animals that inhabit the sanctuary,,I have been there twice and if one were to ask me for one word to describe my experience,,it would be "spiritual", The beauty of the surroundings mixed with the over and above dedication of those who work there make for an unbelievable experience,,,who else would have a pot belly pig on an overnight? Who else would have men sleeping with their arms around Michael Vick's dogs so they could be socialized? It is a labor of love from these people,,it is a mind altering experience for those who volunteer with these glorious animals,,Wish I lived closer but I do sponsor an animal in their Guardian Angel program,,do yourself and your family a big favor and visit, volunteer and come away in love with the beasties that inhabit Best Friends.

I like many ..heard about Best Friends through the NatGeo series "DogTown". I knew these folks were the real deal. You could just tell by the way they told stories of rescue and redemption.
I am headed to the sanctuary this October for my 3rd time volunteering! If you are looking for what has become my favorite vacaction to take. Go there , speand a couple of days vulunteering. You wont be sorry. You will come home knowing you made a difference in an animal's life, and had a really fun time too!

A friend and I spent three days there helping with the dogs. Its an amazing place! Extremely well run and organized. Best experience ever. Any one that is an animal lover and in Las Vegas, should make the short two hour ride up there. Can't wait to go back.

We did over night stays with a different dog on each night. Its was just great. So happy to see them just fall sleep in a nice quiet fluffy bed and sleep straight thru the night. I think it feel just as good for me to be able to help. Saying good bye the next morning was hard, but its nice to know how well treated they are.

The grounds were beautiful and well maintain. The town was small but offered everything you need. A nice place to get away from the hustle and bustle of bust life.

A must for any animal volunteer!

A couple of years ago, I visited Best Friends and was OVERWHELMED by the sheer size and reach of the rescue! The organization and logistic skills they have are AMAZING.

I'm a cat lover (and I love dogs too) so I spent most of my time in the cat bungalows. It was incredible the number of cats -- from newborns to ferals to permanently disabled -- that would have safe, secure and loving places to live for the rest of their lives (if needed). I was sooo astonished at the buildings and all of the THOUGHT that went into them...in some cases, pure GENIUS!

What most impresses me about Best Friends is that they don't define their efforts with borders. They help all types of animals, both domestically AND internationally! Shortly before my trip, they had just flown a cargo plane full of dogs (over 100) to Utah from a war-torn area in the Middle East! The work and diplomacy to get that done had to be immense!

It was such an uplifting and positive experience that I've wanted to go every year. I'm finally managing to get there in a few weeks. And I KNOW that just like the first time, I'll cry as I drive away because I WON'T want to leave!

This was the best adventure I was ever on! Everyone is so happy and cheerful and positive, from the workers, to the pets to the volunteers! It was awesome. I think ALL shelters should come for a visit and see why your facility is the tops. Every single shelter ought to be run like yours. Then, they would be happy places to visit, adopt from, donate to, and volunteer at etc...

Positive and grateful, all shelter workers could benefit from that attitude, so could the animals in your care.

Thanks for being awesome!
Ramona Ruhf

The best most loving place in the world! We volunteered there and were overwhelmed by the love the animals recieve. Truly heaven on earth for the animals, and the people too.

I visited Best Friends in Utah a few years ago and was extremely impressed. Their facilities are terrific and the animals are obviously well-loved. They have several great jobs for volunteers. I socialized puppies, walked dogs, cleaned runs and took one dog on an all-day field trip to Coral Pink Dunes state park. At home in Los Angeles, Best Friends provides great support for the animal rescue group I regularly volunteer with. I'll be walking in their Strut Your Mutt fundraiser in September. The people at Best Friends really care about animals and take a lot of positive action.

I became a member of Best Friends when Katrina happened. I visit once a year and volunteer for a week. Words cannot express what BF means to me. BF does great work for all kinds of animals and educates the ignorant public on animals and how we should care for them. So much has been done for animals because of BF. All I know is that the sanctuary is my haven and retreat. The air is different there....it is because of the love being thrown around. Yet, I am not blind to possible faults. But whenever I call for clarification on questions I have, they always respond. I will spend the rest of my life supporting them and making sure they fulfill all my expectations.

We just completed our second "tour of duty" as volunteers at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. It is one of the most fulfilling, rewarding vacations we have had -- and we already have our reservations for next year.

It is impossible to put everything into one short review, but this is why we volunteer again and again for Best Friends:
1. They have their priorities right. Money and other resources go first and foremost to the animals in their care. Employees and other humans are accommodated comfortably, but very modestly.
2. They take their duty to the animals seriously. Any animal that comes within the care of BFAS is given the highest quality of life possible -- taking into account the animal's physical, mental and emotional needs. There is no pressure to get the animal adopted because it is "running out of time," so each animal gets the medical treatment, enrichment activities, training and behavior modification necessary to have a happy, healthy life and increase his/her chances for adoption.
3. Decisions are at appropriate organizational levels. The people that have the most knowledge, information and understanding of a particular animal and the greatest emotional investment in that animal (the Caregivers) are given a lot of authority for developing his/her life plan, approvals for outings and sleepovers, training plans, etc. At the same time, BFAS has appropriate procedures that ensure that everyone stays safe.

I have never seen an organization that has as much respect for individuals, while maintaining a sustainable business model, and such loyal, devoted employees. As volunteers, we are always made to feel valued, appreciated and respected. We end each of our Best Friends vacations wishing we had more time to walk dogs or clean kennels!

I became familiar with Best Friends during Hurricane Katrina. They were the first group there to help the animals. I made my first donation during that time and have maintained my membership with this wonderful organization. I checked them out and realized that they are a NO-KILL shelter! At the time, I didn't know those existed. Many of the other organizations euthanize animals instead of trying to find them homes and give them medical care.
Best Friends has the most compassionate caregivers to the animals. They are loving, caring, and selfless. Everyone I have ever had any contact with has been extremely nice, helpful, and patient. God bless them all....
Although I am disabled and unable to help physically, I try to send money as often as I can and have even give memberships as gifts. In my opinion, they are simply the BEST!

I volunteered at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah along with my daughters who were 10 and 11. It was one of the best experiences we've ever had. Everyone was kind, helpful, and this organization really has a handle on what they do - they are top notch. We are involved in animal rescue at home, and being able to see their facilities first hand, and how they handle animals, was such an education.

After trying to deal with several shelters/rescues, I turned to Best Friends. From that first contact with them , I felt I was their main concern. The help they provided me really made the experience great. No run arounds, just answers. I only wish all businesses and shelters worked as well as they do. I have a dog that is like they said he was, and in some ways better. And to have one of the founders call me and say thank you, well they are the best.

I volunteered at the sanctuary twice in the past year. Not only do you feel like you are making a difference in the lives of all the animals there, but the staff and volunteer coordinators are so welcoming and helpful. They all want to make sure the volunteers have a great experience. The sanctuary is a little slice of heaven on earth, for both the animals that call it home and the people who visit! I am hoping to make the trip on a yearly basis! I would HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone that is an animal lover!

Best Friends saves the unwanted, the helpless, the hopeless. They were instrumental in helping and saving many of the dogs involved in Michael Vick's dogfighting case. They go to areas in crisis such as New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, and overseas in wartorn areas and earthquake areas to help people and animals. They promote TNR for community cats to help control feral populations

A more dedicated group would be hard to find: and their work reaches well beyond their sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. Their influence and actions have reached across the country and around the world.

Best of all, you'll never get a heart-rending "Send $5 or this cat will die" appeal from them: it's always "Look how happy these animals are now!"

"No more homeless pets" may become a reality: and if no-kill spreads throughout the country and the world, it will be in large part due to Best Friends and their partners around the world.

Top notch, well run organization that places it's entire focus on caring for animals in need. Highly trained staff who love their jobs. Plus they work with animals with behavioral issues so they can find homes. Also provide sanctuary to animals that can't be placed. They serve as a model for all other animal organizations. I've been a donor for years a d will continue to be one.

Best Friends Animal Society is the most tranquil place I have ever been. I've only been able to go once, and for just two days at that, but the experience is life-changing. The innovative designs for the housing for the dogs and cats were amazing. The cats can go indoors or outdoors because each cat building has an enclosure outside of it complete with rafters for those kitties that prefer to be high up. The dogs, cats, horses, pigs, and goats were all very content and extremely well cared for. I was so very fortunate to meet a cat I had sponsored over the years, Scooter, who has since passed away. I volunteered at Kitty Motel, where he and other special-needs cats reside. It was obvious that the people who work at Best Friends deeply love these animals, who often come from neglectful and abusive situations. Many of the cats at Kitty Motel have to be bathed multiple times per day due to their incontinence. The workers and volunteers do not let this phase them one bit - these animals have a chance at a life they would have at very few places elsewhere. Something I got to do that was very neat was a dog sleepover. At Best Friends, they allow volunteers to take a dog or cat that is adoptable on a sleepover to help that animal get more socialization. I'll always remember B.G. (short for Big Guy), the black lab I had the pleasure of having for one evening. One of the most memorable parts of my visit was the trip to Angel's Rest, the cemetery for about six thousand animals. I was crying before getting through the gate. This area is designed so beautifully and is so peaceful. There are windchimes with memorials to beloved pets and markers for each pet who rests there. The place is so well maintained. All animals at Best Friends are loved, whether they are living or have already passed on. I hope to be able to return some day.

I wish there were more than one option I could choose in the pulldown menu.

I began volunteering 7 years ago with everything from reuniting pets and owners after Hurricane Katrina, worked at high volume feral cat spay/neuter clinics through Best Friends Catnippers, worked information booths at Super Adoption events and participated in Best Friends Brigade clean-ups and repair of shelters and rescues.

But I've also donated and, worked at a marketing and direct mail company that had Best Friends as a client.

That company I worked for had a lot of non-profit clients and, from my experience, Best Friends is the most budget conscious and their executives do not take the normal executive salary. Everyone who works with Best Friends, either as an actual employee or volunteer, is there for the animals. They are the most organized, conscientious organization I've worked with either as a client, volunteer or donor.

Best Friends Animal Society really strives to help animals. They are positive and upbeat. They run the nation's largest sanctuary for abused and abandoned animals. They help with low cost spays and neuters. They are very proactive about getting word out about adoptable animals. They are action oriented and not just about sharing information!

The best "vacation" I have taken in a few years was a trip ito Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. I brought my dogs and stayed n the cabins and cottages that are on the sanctuary property. They rate was reasonable it was so nice to be able to volunteer for both morning and afternoon shifts while my dogs were fine in the cabin/cottage. i walked dogs, played with cats and fed nd walked pigs. I hiked around the area with my dogs and met so many nice people. I have networked in LA with Best Friends to help further my personal animal rescue endeavors.

The Best Friends Animal Society is awesome. I have donated for about 7 years now. They are a no kill shelter that takes in abandoned animals, often with medical problems, and rehabs them and tried to find the adoptable ones homes. They also rehab wild animals and release if able. My daughter and I spent a week volunteering and it was an experience that neither of us will ever forget. The animals are amazingly well cared for - nice beds, long walks, toys, playmates, clean homes, nutritious food and LOVE! Animals that make it to Best FRiends are the lucky ones and so are we for having them. My husband always makes one of my Christmas presents and BF animal adoption where he donates money to help specific "adopted" animals. The BF gives us updates on our adoptees. This place is amazing! God Bless them for taking such wonderful care of the precious creatures!

Adopted a 5 month old puppy from NMHPU/Best Friends in Dec. 2010. The adoption staff was efficient, caring and thoughtful. Our puppy had been well cared for in a Foster. Have received follow up calls and experienced genuine interest in how she is doing and the milestones she has achieved.

I have been a member supporting Best Friends for several years, and when I actually saw the work they do, it impressed me even more than their excellent publications.
All the animals are well-treated, healthy and socialized carefully. As a volunteer, I was taught the correct way to do some things I thought I knew.
My trip to see this sanctuary was the highlight of my vacation, and I hope to volunteer for them again--perhaps even long-distance!

Not only does Best Friends help the animals there in marvelous ways, but they also share everything they learn with other groups. For example, they've been a major player in getting rescue groups to work together to develop effective strategies for animal rescue after disasters.

I recently started following Best Friends online and have been nothing but blown away by the amazing things they do for so many animals and particularly the sick and specials needs animals that many other shelters would not save. Their video updates bring tears of joy to my eyes regularly. The staff and volunteers at Best Friends are the true heros of today, taking actions for our little friends who cannot help themselves.

The beauty of Angel Canyon is indescribable! Once I entered the main building and watched the video everyone was so friendly and willing to answer my questions. I went on the tour, which was very informative, then I went by myself to Angels Rest for some quiet time to just take in how amazing this place is, and how truly special the people are who provide this much needed service to the animals.
It is a bit of a drive from Las Vegas, but it is so worth it. If you ever have the chance to visit Best Friends, I highly recommend it, your heart will thank you.

I am proud to be a volunteer for Best Friends. I have been involved with them for many years and have never seen them do anything but put the interests of the animals first. They promote kindness and compassion for both animals and humans. Best Friends has worked tirelessly to not only help the animals in their care, but have worked on far reaching programs to improve animal welfare everywhere. Their staff works very hard and diligently. Best Friends was one of the first organizations helping animals after Hurricane Katrina and stayed there for over a year. They helped save over seven hundred cats caught in the nightmare of an institutional hoarding situation in Pahrump, Nevada. They sponsor spay and neuter programs, humane education, and also support, guide and work with local animal rescue organizations. They helped to save and rehabilitate the dogs that were victims of Michael Vick's dog fighting ring. This is only a few of the things this wonderful organization does to promote animal welfare. They use their donations judiciously and treat their volunteers like angels. I can only wish more humans were like them.

We volunteered at BF in May 2011. It was an awesome experience. We met lots of great dogs and had two sleepovers. It is beautiful there and I can't wait to go back!

Hands down the most POSITIVE national non-profit animal charity nation wide! No negativity or sadness here...after all, it's all about the animals, and working together towards a world with No More Homeless Pets!

I have been to Best Friends twice so far and plan to go again and again! The animals are extremely well cared for and the staff is awesome. I got to work with what is known as the bully breeds. Taking the dogs for walks, cleaning their play areas and brushing and petting them. Being able to take the dogs for an overnight sleepover was so much fun! I tell everyone I can about Best Friends. The way the sanctuary works is just so amazing. We also spent time with the cats and enjoying playing and brushing them. As soon as I can I plan to go again. My husband and daughter are now interested in going too.

I was honored to be able to volunteer at BFAS in August 2010. It was amazing to me how organized the whole operation is from signing in to volunteering and everything in between. It is obvious how dedicated the employees are to the sanctuary and to the animals. Every animal is treated as an individual. All the caretakers know each animal as well as they know their own pets at home. I was able to help by walking some dogs and helping to prepare their food as well as helping to clean some of the cat rooms in Cat World and walking some of the cats who enjoy being outdoors. We were also able to help out with the horses not only cleaning but with the feeding. The employees are extremely grateful for the help the volunteers provide. When I said I would be happy to was some dog dishes after the feeding they were visibly surprised that I would be willing to do such a menial chore. With all that they do for all these animals, it was a small thing for me to do for them.
I can’t say enough about the work that is done at BFAS. I am in awe of the dedication and tireless work on the part of everyone I met there.
I would welcome the opportunity to return to BFAS and lend whatever hand they would need.
Thank you BFAS for everything that you do on behalf of animals of every type.
If anyone wants to make a small difference in the life of an animal, just visit BFAS and take the tour, you will be signing up to volunteer in no time!!!

I volunteered at Best Friends in Utah, with my boyfriend, last September after watching the National Geographic show called ''Dog Town''. We were amazed at how well organised they are, like a well oiled machine. Friendly and welcoming staff are there to explain and patiently answer all questions. They also inquire about us, where we were from, how long we were planning on volunteering, what our experience had been like so far which made us feel like we were actually building relationships with them and working together toward a common goal.
We volunteered exclusively at DogTown and helped in many ways: walking dogs, cleaning runs, feedings, grooming, socializing dogs and puppies, taking some on outtings and every night, we took a different one back to the rented cottage for a sleepover. Although we knew we could not adopt one, we felt that we were making a difference to the dogs, one at a time. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED it! We regretfully left after a two week stay and I admit that I cried a little upon leaving, feeling like I was leaving after having fallen in love...but it gave us a new drive.
We came back from Utah with the desire to built such a place in our home province of Quebec and have worked diligently toward that goal since. We are headed back to Best Friends in October for another two weeks of volunteering and I could just burst in anticipation! And this time, we are planning on bringing my 18 year old daughter to this magical place so she can experience it for herself. I can't wait!

I do not have a personal experience with Best Friends. However, i know of the work they do and I think it is one of the greatest organizations around. My dream since childhood has been to somehow do exactly what Best Friends does.

Having been a member for quite awhile, I was fostering a declawed sieamese that had been abandoned that had a very aggressive nature with biting tendencies and was desperate for help. The staff at Best Friends gave me several contact names and numbers that could possibly assist. The search proved to be successful and I was able to find a home for my foster. I have admired Best Friends, the staff, and volunteers since I first heard about them. In my opinion, there are angels that walk among us and a good many of them are located there.

Have visited there twice and consider Best Friends a spiritual place. I loved meeting the staff and the animals. The setting is beautiful.

I've volunteered at Best Friends during my vacations over the past few years. It is the most amazing place! Every animal area is kept extremely clean. The animals are provided with plenty of food, veterinary care, cozy beds, toys and other environmental enrichments. Even though they specialize in caring for animals who would be considered unadoptable elsewhere, they have a 75% adoption rate! This should be the model for all sanctuaries. Every animal should have the right to live in a safe environment, and Best Friends gives that to all their animals, even those with missing limbs, manageable illnesses and behavioral issues. The level of care and love shown by the staff are just awesome.

I haven't been to Best Friends in Utah but I have a friend to has. She said the place is amazing. I commend the work they do and the care they give to animals. I am a member of the Guardian Angel program and contribute on a monthly basis.

Best Friends does a wonderful job in education, rescue and rehabilitation!

I came to know Best Friends through the National Geographic show 'Dogtown'. I realized the dream to go and volunteer in Utah last fall. It was an experience of a lifetime. So much that I have decided to repeat the experience, and even further to build a place like Dogtown in the province of Quebec, Canada. The people there are awesome. The caregiver were reaslly listening to us and kind and comprehensive. Even though I saw that I sometimes was a little bit of a load for them, they kept their patience and answered all my questions. And after all that, they granted me with a big thank you... Best Friends is a really good organization and their follow up is really great.

Have been a donor to Best Friends for over 25 years. When we finally got the opportunity to go visit we were overjoyed with the care and love and compassion the animals in their care receive.

My husband and I adopted a puppy from Best Friends in March 2010. There was a very thorough screening process prior to our adoption being approved, which I think is very important--they obviously want to make sure that the animals they've cared for will go to a good home.
The adoption fee was very reasonable, communication was great, and our puppy was even delivered to us (in California) from Utah. She is incredibly well-socialized and had obviously been through training prior to her arrival.
We couldn't be happier with our experience with Best Friends and would recommend them to anyone.

We discovered this wonderful place from the show DOGTOWN! We became members of Best Friends soon after. We donate, we buy products & gifts from them because we know what caring, professionals these people are & that no animal is turned away. This animal rescue & rehab santcuary is the best!

I have volunteered at Best Friends 4 times and will continue to do so as long as I am able. The place is beautiful. The animals need volunteers. The staff is friendly and helpful. The cottages are nice. I love going there. I've taken several dogs on sleepovers and all have been adopted within a few months of my meeting them. Puppy classes are fun too!

Best Friends can be described with one word - MAGICAL! The staff and volunteers are completely devoted to the animals in their care (as is should be) and respect them for the wonderful creatures that they are. I have volunteered at a number of animal shelters but the Sanctuary is in a class of its own. I encourage anyone who loves animals to visit Best Friends!

My fiance and I bought a house this last year and decided that this year was the year to get a dog to add to our little family. We definitely wanted to adopt but there are few adoption opportunities in our small town. We knew the kind of dog to fit into our lifestyle (active and busy all the time). We were looking for a cattle dog mix of some sort (Heeler, Aussie or Border Collie all would do).

In researching I came across Best Friends Animal Society and was amazed at the work that they do for animals. Not only do they give the community an opportunity to adopt but they commit to the life of the pet. This means they will keep the animal until it dies, take care of it, love it and give it the best life possible even if no one adopts it. What an amazing policy!

On their website we came across the dog that was perfect...we emailed one of their facilitators, gave them tons of information and they set up some one from our town (volunteer) to come over and check out our place. This meant a lot to us because they truly care where these special animals go. Its more than just their job, they really care. After the visit all was a go and we made the trip (6+ hours) to Best Friends to pick up our pup.

We were immediately struck by the beauty of the surroundings. The canyons are gorgeous (especially in snow when we went) and the facilities blend in and fit so well in the landscape. Due to snow we were only able to go to the puppy area and the visitors center. We could tell though that the rest of the facilities were incredible. In going into the puppy area the cleanliness and friendlyness of the staff was great. We enjoyed talking with the caretakers and checking out the other animals housed there. It really was amazing the attention to detail they have. Our pup was brought out to play, we got to know him. He had just had shots so he was a little lethargic but the in house vet stopped by, checked him out and gave us tons of tips on how to care for him that night and what to look out for after vaccination. They also gave us phone numbers and trainer numbers to call any time, even in the middle of that night if somthing went wrong due to the vaccination. Luckily all went great.

We met with Marti our adoption coordinator and filled out the paperwork. Spent a little longer with the staff and they sent us off for the night with our pup. We had a great time visiting and were excited to go back to the hotel. Next day the called and checked up on him and thanked us for adopting him.

In the following months they have called, emailed and showed what genuine compassion and love they have for every animal that comes through their doors. We are so grateful to them for allowing us to give our pup a home and they will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Thanks Best Friends

This is, by far, the best-run non-profit with which I've dealt. They focus on the positives of what they are doing, rather than the abuse that some of these animals have gone through. Yes, we know that many of the animals come from a rough background. Why dwell on it?

I love the "everyone can make a difference" attitude they possess. This transfers over into their volunteer program at the sanctuary. They rely heavily on volunteers to help with the daily chores, and they have to coordinate and manage thousands of volunteers each year. No small task. I am amazed at how well their program is run, and how each staff member treats them with respect and appreciation, even if they have no experience working with animals.

I have volunteered at the sanctuary 4 times over the past 6 years, and it's always one of my favorite trips, not just for the animals, but to work with a fine organization. Every organization can learn from Best Friends on how to run a great non-profit, and they are willing to share their experiences to help other rescue groups be successful. Best Friends is one of my top picks for donations and volunteering.

I was a supporter and went for a visit to Best Friends. I found the whole experience simply wonderful. From the minute my husband and I arrived we were greeted by great folks who were friendly and knowledgeable. The animals appeared to be well taken care of and happy and were treated as individuals. There were many volunteers who were there feeding animals and walking dogs and cats. I wouldn't hesitate to tell anyone to support this fine group of people. They are some of the most compassionate and caring people I've ever met.

I believe in what they want to do A world with no homeless pets. also they are educating people on spayed and neutering there animals. Also for helping all animals

I visited Best Friends in 2006. The sanctuary is beautiful and all the animals I saw appeared happy and healthy. It is great to see a place where special needs animals are not turned away or euthanized. It was also nice to see that there is an area maintained for rehab of local wildlife. Allowing members of the public to visit and volunteer helps spread the word about animal needs and also benefits the sanctuary financially. I voluteered in the rabbit area, which at the time did seem in need of expansion, but I understand that it has been renovated since then.