Sanctuary Stories

Found fending for himself, abandoned puppy is rescued, gets tick treatment, finally gets enough food and receives socialization in his foster home.

Fussy, hard-to-please cat wins over an adopter with her diva-like ways. Demandingness, finickiness and fussiness are part of this feline's charms.

Family bought micro piglet, but she's not a teacup pig. She'll grow into a 100 to 200-pound potbelly pig. She's growing and learning at the Sanctuary.

Tabby and white cat was elusive and uninterested in other cats and people, but with patience from his caregivers he's become more social and friendly.

High school students from Concord Academy in Massachusetts visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to volunteer with animals during spring break.

Poodle with special needs (incontinence due to weak back end) who loves to play fetch comes to Best Friends for help from NorCal Poodle Rescue.

Dog hit by car receives treatment from surgical specialist to repair his broken legs and hips. He is on the mend now and receiving physical therapy.

Target training pigs with a stick provides great enrichment and mental stimulation. It can help correct problem pig behavior as well.

John Tella is a true kitten guy and kitten lover. He volunteers with kittens in Salt Lake City, Utah. Read an interview about his experience.

Distrustful, panic-stricken dog comes to Best Friends where she receives love, care, training and reassurance. She's making tremendous progress.

Tortoiseshell cat enjoys sitting on people's shoulders, and her sweetness wins over a couple who adopts her.

Manx syndrome cat whose spine, organs and muscles didn't develop correctly gets physical therapy, walks and massages to help with genetic issue.

Adopted Great Pyrenees is now a service dog for an autistic boy with elopement behavior who has a tendency to wander into dangerous situations.

Roughly March through April is kitten season. Read what Best Friends is doing to save the littlest shelter kittens.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary offers volunteer opportunities for seniors and older adults. Read an interview with one 77-year-old animal volunteer.