Running a Lifesaving Animal Sanctuary

Over the course of this three-month program, you’ll learn what it takes to run a successful animal sanctuary from Best Friends founders and other subject-matter experts. 

Animal sanctuaries provide safe places for pets and other animals to get healthy enough so they can be adopted or safely live out their lives surrounded by care and love. They’re places that are created and run by caring people like you.

Many people dream of running an animal sanctuary, and you might already have the skills, resources and talent needed to do just that. This program will show you how to use those skills to save lives and what to consider when thinking about running a sanctuary.

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Running a Lifesaving Animal Sanctuary is geared toward people who are interested in starting an animal sanctuary, not those looking to work in a municipal shelter or humane society.  Our goal is to help people respect and reflect their community’s cultural diversity so that everyone feels welcome and comfortable. 

What you’ll learn 

Once enrolled in the program, you’ll learn about the realities of running an animal sanctuary and gain some of the skills needed to be successful.

As a program participant, you will evaluate whether starting an animal sanctuary is the best use of your skills, identify the key steps involved in starting a sanctuary, learn about common animal issues and analyze if starting a sanctuary will fill a specific need within your community. Plus, you’ll be part of a community of fellow students who can provide support on your journey. 

Topics covered include an introduction to the history of Best Friends, how to create a nonprofit organization, turning your passion into a strategic plan, animal housing, fundraising tips, engaging volunteers, pet adoption, fostering and transport essentials, basic veterinary care, long-term animal care, successful communication and managing risk.

What to expect 

This three-month hybrid course offers the best of both worlds through online modules, live weekly Zoom calls and a six-day, in-person experience at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah.

You’ll participate in weekly live cohort calls and discussions; complete 16 comprehensive, self-study online modules; and complete weekly assignments. You can expect to spend about five to six hours per week on assignments, self-study and live classes.

You will also create an action plan on behalf of the animals and participate in the six-day in-person experience at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. The in-person experience includes an in-depth tour of the Sanctuary, live group classes with subject matter experts, and creating your own individualized schedule of immersion sessions.

This course is offered twice a year, typically in winter/spring and summer/fall.

Benefits of the program 

You’ll learn about Best Friends’ history and experience with running an animal sanctuary, and you’ll gain knowledge, resources and insights to aid you in starting your own successful organization. 

You’ll earn one continuing education credit (CEU) and a Southern Utah University Institutional Certificate for Running a Lifesaving Sanctuary, including six days at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

If you’re taking the fast-track option, you’ll earn three credits that may be used for participating in undergraduate degree programs at Southern Utah University.

And best of all, you’ll spend six days at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest sanctuary for companion animals in the United States.

What past participants have to say about the program 

The course oﬀered an in-depth and well-rounded education in every essential area needed to successfully start, manage, and grow an animal sanctuary. Each module was thoughtfully designed and packed with practical information that I can immediately apply to my work in rescue, [giving] me the tools to think more strategically, manage with intention, and build infrastructure that supports long-term sustainability and lifesaving success.”

— Lylinda. D., Converse, TX

It provided a comprehensive overview of not only running a lifesaving sanctuary, but also a variety of information on how to help animals in other ways. The information was presented by experts who were really committed to their work. The coordinators really cared about the students [and] the structure of the modules was sound and the assignments meaningful.”

— Sharon. P., Falls Church VA

Every aspect of the course was designed to give us the power to do something with our dreams. The message that the founders and other speakers repeated throughout - that we can do something, and it isn't that hard to just start! BFAS' overall approach to helping anyone who wants to help animals is truly amazing and instead of feeling scared, now I feel empowered and capable to make a start.”

— Karen. W., Bend, OR

Scholarships may be available

Click here to apply

Ready to up your lifesaving game? 

You can make a difference for homeless pets in your community. We invite you to start the application process today.

Start your application

See our upcoming courses

Take the next step in your lifesaving career and get started with one of our upcoming course offerings.

Person kneeling beside a dog whose front paws are up on her knees

Running a Lifesaving Animal Sanctuary (RLAS)

Mar 11 — May 20

Discover what it takes to create and run an animal sanctuary with expert guidance and in-person experience at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Ideal for anyone considering starting their own sanctuary.
(In-person dates June 1-6)

Start Your Sanctuary Journey

Running a Lifesaving Animal Sanctuary (RLAS)

Jul 29 — Sep 30

Start Your Sanctuary Journey

Tell us that you’re interested in Running a Lifesaving Animal Sanctuary, formerly known as Running a Lifesaving Sanctuary Certification, and we’ll let you know when the next session opens for enrollment.

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Want to explore the course further? View the syllabus here.

If you still have questions, check out our FAQs or email us at learning@bestfriends.org.