Best Friends National Conference

Thank you to everyone who Joined us at the 2022 Best Friends National Conference

Presented by Petco Love

Thank you to everyone who made our 2022 Conference such a success. Our next National Conference will be August 10-12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.

The deadline to purchase session recordings has passed.

Click here to sign up for email updates to be the first to know about Conference 2023 opportunities.

At the conference, you’ll learn how to make an impact from some of the top leaders in animal welfare, marketing, DE&I, government relations, and more — and all while having fun! Plus, you’ll make meaningful connections with fellow animal welfare volunteers and staff members from across the country.

Hear from leading experts in animal welfare

This year’s exciting lineup of speakers ensures that you’ll hear about the latest and most thought-provoking innovations.

Here’s a sneak peek at our list of engaging and informative speakers:

Rene Vasquez, Director of Fort Bend County Animal Services

Sloane Hawes, Assistant Director of Research at the Institute for Human-Animal Connections

Ellen Jefferson, CEO and President of Austin Pets Alive!

Allison Cardona, California State Director for UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program

Mia Navedo-Williams, Manager of Multicultural Marketing at Best Friends

Leah Long, National Embed Programs Specialist at Best Friends

Meet More Speakers

People sitting at tables networking at the Best Friends National Conference

Learn how to save more lives in your community

The conference schedule was designed to give you the newest, most advanced lifesaving tips and techniques from animal welfare experts.

You can find out how to increase live outcomes, create a community-supported shelter, run more successful fundraising campaigns, end breed-specific legislation and much more.

No matter which sessions you attend, you will discover the animal welfare industry’s most recent advancements and accomplishments.

See the Full Schedule

Volunteers at Best Friends National Conference

Volunteer and help save lives

Want to have fun while making a difference? Volunteer at the Best Friends National Conference!

As a volunteer, you’ll not only be giving a helping hand, you’ll be able to connect and swap stories with other compassionate animal lovers who are dedicated to saving lives.

Already registered?

We've put together some tips to help you make the most of your time at this year's conference.

Get the Tips

Planning your trip

From exclusive lodging rates to travel and parking information, we’ve compiled all the information you need to plan your trip to the conference at the Raleigh Convention Center.

Plan My Trip

Two people wearing masks holding orange cat

COVID-19 protocols

See the latest COVID-19 guidelines and find out what we’re doing to keep you safe at the conference.

Get COVID-19 Information

Strengthen your brand by becoming an exhibitor

Exhibiting at the Best Friends National Conference gives you the opportunity to interact with attendees face-to-face, generating visibility and credibility for your company.

You can showcase your products or services to hundreds of highly passionate animal welfare leaders and gain exposure with leading decision-makers.

Become an Exhibitor

Show your company’s compassion and dedication to saving lives by sponsoring the Best Friends National Conference

Become a Sponsor

A special thank-you to our current 2022 sponsors

Presenting sponsor:

Impact sponsor:

Supporting partners: