In February 2025, PAWS attended the Best Friends Animal Society Annual Conference in Palm Springs. Representing our team were our Director of Shelter Operations, Director of Programs & Engagement, and Foster & Volunteer Coordinator, all eager to bring back valuable insights to strengthen our life-saving work.
As a proud Best Friends Animal Society shelter partner, PAWS is committed to maintaining No-Kill status—defined as a 90% or greater live outcome rate for animals in our care. While we occasionally face severe medical and behavioral cases where humane euthanasia is necessary to prevent suffering, we stand firmly against euthanizing animals due to space constraints. No one who works with animals should have killing as part of their job description, and we are dedicated to ensuring our shelter operates in alignment with this belief.
Hearing Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, speak about the progress of the No-Kill movement was both inspiring and motivating. Today, the United States is 83% No-Kill, and with continued efforts, we are on track to reach 90% in the near future. While shelters serve as critical lifesaving hubs, this movement extends beyond shelter walls—every person in every community plays a role in saving lives.
Key Takeaways from the Conference
The conference provided an invaluable opportunity to learn from experts across the animal welfare field, discover innovative strategies, and connect with like-minded advocates. Here are some highlights we’re excited to implement:
• National and Regional No-Kill Progress – Idaho and Wyoming are on the verge of reaching No-Kill status!
• Behavioral Support for High-Energy Dogs – Implementing proven tactics to reduce behavioral issues and improve adoptability.
• Boosting Community Engagement – Enhancing social media strategies to expand our reach and raise awareness.
• Improved Intake & Sanitation Protocols – Strengthening practices to minimize disease transmission in shelters.
• Promoting Adoption Over Breeding – Exploring new ways to encourage pet adoption and educate the public.
• Expanding Inclusivity – Providing bilingual resources to better engage and support our Latino community.
• Collaborating with Local & State Officials – Strengthening partnerships to create lasting policy change.
• Advocating for Animal Welfare Laws – Learning how to draft and pass city ordinances that protect animals.
• Microchipping Community Cats – Reducing redundant medical procedures through better tracking.
• Adapting Shelter Hours – Exploring evening adoption hours to better accommodate potential adopters.
Moving Forward Together
This conference reinforced our passion and commitment to tackling pet homelessness head-on. As a member of our community, we encourage you to reflect on this question:
“What am I doing to make a difference for homeless pets and my community?”
Together, we can help our nation reach No-Kill status and continue making a lasting impact—at both ends of the leash.
