The largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the United States is in Utah
There are hundreds of animals in Utah that need homes. Dogs, cats, horses, pigs, goats, etc. – there are animals that just want to be cared for and feel loved. Fortunately, Kanab’s Best Friends Animal Society is doing something about it. This Utah animal sanctuary is one of the largest no-kill animal sanctuaries in the entire country and it’s pure magic. This is a destination you need to check out for yourself.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary began in the late 1970s in Arizona but moved to Utah in 1984. This non-profit organization is located just five miles north of Kanab and is a true paradise on earth for hundreds of animals.
This animal sanctuary describes itself as a no-kill sanctuary that helps animals in every corner of the country. In fact, in just one year, Best Friends has partnered with animal shelters across the United States and rescued over 63,000 dogs and cats.
However, it is not just dogs and cats that inhabit this sanctuary. The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary can care for approximately 1,600 animals at one time, ranging from rabbits to horses to donkeys and countless others.
If you want to experience the magic yourself, plan a visit to the shrine. When you first arrive, stop at the Visitor Center. This is where you can learn all about the shrine, pick up a map to more easily navigate this great destination, and even sign up for a tour of this remarkable spot near Kanab.
You are also welcome to volunteer and spend your time with the animals. It’s a simple and effective way to help animals in need. You can walk the dogs, pet the cat, prepare the food, do the grooming and much more.
If you just want to explore on your own or take a tour of this animal sanctuary, you won’t regret it. Short hikes will take you all around the property, but be sure to bring your walking shoes – this wildlife sanctuary spans nearly 3,700 acres!
A guided tour is a great way to see and learn about the many animals that call this place home. The tour begins at the Visitor Center and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Your guide will take you all around the sanctuary and stop at each of the different animal communities.
If you get hungry during your visit, stop by the Angel Village Café for a plant-based buffet lunch. The lunch menu changes daily, but no matter the day, you’ll enjoy a full meal with a main course, sides, fruit, salad bar and, of course, dessert.
You can also stop at the gift shop. Here, all profits go directly to the sanctuary.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is one of the largest no-kill sanctuaries in America and does so much good for animals and people. A visit to this southern Utah location is one you will always remember.
You can find out more about the Best Friends Animal Society on their website and Facebook page.
Have you ever visited this animal sanctuary in Kanab, Utah? If yes, what did you do during your visit? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
If you’ve never been to Kanab, it’s definitely a small town in Utah that deserves your attention! In fact, this small town is located in the middle of national parks, state parks, and other bucket list worthy destinations in Utah.
Address: 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT 84741, United States