Sanctuary Stories

Thirteen-year-old volunteer with autism connects with cats at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. He enjoys volunteering with animals.

Cat has bad reaction to anesthesia that leaves him with neurological damage, but he comes to Best Friends where he is getting help and treatment.

Traumatized Chihuahua and toy fox terrier mix from a hoarding situation where a fire broke out slowly learns to trust again.

Big black dog overcomes fear and gains confidence at the Sanctuary with meeting new people, especially men, whom he has been scared of in the past.

Iowa and Indiana, two felines positive for the feline leukemia virus, get special care, treatment, and a chance at a loving home.

A senior Arabian horse who was living as a stray gets excellent care and finds new purpose at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

Medical treatments ease Riley the cat's pain, which may be due to arthritis or an injury, and help her get along with other cats.

A Russian Blue cat is a Hurricane Katrina survivor who has had a difficult history, but he is now enjoying life and loving people at the Sanctuary.

Kitten, found alone under a car on the side of the road, comes to Best Friends, where he gets help for a twisted leg and is adopted into a happy home.

Time in an office helps an excitable dog calm down. She gets extra attention and socialization in this quieter setting away from other shelter dogs.

Antisocial, reclusive, seemingly unfriendly shelter cat starts to come out of her shell once she gets a job to do.

A new ‘job' -- playing treibball -- brings out the best in a special dog, keeping his mind and body active.

Orphaned baby American kestrels (raptors) will gain strength at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary before they will be released back into the wild.

Dog is a surrogate mother to six puppies. After her selfless service, she gets help with socialization with adult dogs since she displays reactivity.

Overweight American bulldog receives medication for his thyroid condition and loses 30 pounds. He's now feeling a lot better.