The Data Is In: 2025 National Shelter Data Report
Increase return-to-home rates
In 2024, network partners participated in the Return to Home Challenge to help lost dogs find their way back home faster, resulting in a 170% increase in return-to-home in-field outcomes alone.
Drive more adoptions
Last year, network partners participated in the Bring Love Home Challenge to decrease barriers to adoption and fostering, resulting in an 11.4% increase in adoption and foster placements for 209 reporting organizations.
Build lifesaving momentum
2024 data shows a 7.5% increase in transfers out, but there’s still work to do to create more movement in the animal welfare ecosystem and open up space in shelters for those in need.
Resource Library
Access proven lifesaving strategies in our free library of resources for shelters and rescue groups. Information-sharing is a key component of the Best Friends Network.
775 results
— NETWORK PARTNER STATISTICS —
5 points
Higher save rate on average for network partner shelters than non-partners.
6,000+
Shelters, rescue groups, and support organizations make up the Best Friends Network.
$2.4M
In grants. This year, our partners can access more than $2.4 million in grant funding.
Get Involved
The Best Friends Network is committed to saving the lives of homeless cats and dogs through collaboration, information-sharing, and implementation of proven strategies. Get involved for free!
Opportunities to connect and save the lives of pets
Have fun and connect with fellow network partners and animal lovers at these upcoming events.
ASV Guidelines in Practice: Improving Quality of Care and Lifesaving
May 13
See how shelters can use ASV Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters to help animals move safely and successfully through shelter care.
Implementing Pilot Programs: Turning Ideas into Action in Your Organization
May 21
Pilot programs can be one of the most powerful tools shelters and rescues have to drive meaningful change — when they’re designed, implemented, and measured thoughtfully. Hear from three shelter leaders about pilot programs they launched to address critical challenges in their communities.
Get the support you need
The Best Friends Network team is your lifeline to support for your organization and collaboration with other network partners.
Let’s be friends!
Connect with us on social media to stay in the loop about the lifesaving progress we’re making together.
