The Largest No-Kill Animal Sanctuary In The U.S. Is In Utah, And It's Magical
By Courtnie Erickson|Published June 20, 2022
×
Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
There are hundreds of animals in Utah that need a home. Dogs, cats, horses, pigs, goats, etc. — there are animals that just want to be cared for and feel loved. Fortunately, the Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab is doing something about it. This animal sanctuary in Utah is one of the largest no-kill animal sanctuaries in the entire country and it is pure magic. It is one destination you need to check out for yourself.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary began in the late 1970s in Arizona but relocated to Utah in 1984. This non-profit organization is located just five miles north of Kanab and is truly a heaven on earth for hundreds of animals.
This animal sanctuary describes itself as a no-kill sanctuary that is helping animals in every corner of the country. In fact, in just one year, Best Friends partnered with animal shelters around the U.S. and saved more than 63,000 dogs and cats.
However, it isn’t just dogs and cats that call this sanctuary home. The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary can care for approximately 1,600 animals at the same time — ranging from bunnies to horses to donkeys and countless others.
If you want to experience the magic yourself, plan a visit to the sanctuary. When first arriving, stop by the Welcome Center. This is where you can learn all about the sanctuary, grab a map to navigate this large destination more easily, and even sign up for a tour of this remarkable location near Kanab.
You are also welcome to volunteer and spend your time with the animals. This is a simple and effective way to help the animals in need. You can walk the dogs, pet the cat, prepare food, provide grooming, and so much more.
If you simply 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 make sure you bring your walking shoes — this animal sanctuary is nearly 3,700 acres!
A guided tour is a terrific way to see and learn about the many animals that call this place home. The tour begins at the Welcome Center and takes approximately 90 minutes. Your tour guide will take you all around the sanctuary and stop at each of the different animal communities.
If you are 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 will enjoy a full meal with a main dish, sides, fruit, a salad bar, and, of course, dessert.
You can also stop by the gift shop. Here, all of the proceeds go right back to the sanctuary.
Advertisement
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is one of the largest no-kill sanctuaries in America and is doing so much good for animals and people alike. A visit to this southern Utah location is one that you will always remember.
You can learn more about the Best Friends Animal Society on their website and Facebook page.
Have you ever visited this animal sanctuary in Kanab, Utah? If so, what did you do during your visit? We’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments!
If you have never been to Kanab, it’s certainly 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.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
