Special Features

A Wonderful Life
They've all been naughty and nice! And thanks to you, we're filling all their stockings for the holidays. To show you just how your kindness and generosity are a blessing to the animals who come into the care of Best Friends, here's our version of this holiday classic.


What's Up At Cat World?
The building is splashed with holiday cheer -- do the cats know they'll be getting gifts on Christmas day? Find out who's been naughty or nice!


Hurricane Charley Takes Toll on Animals - The devastating effects of Hurricane Charley on the human population in Florida were well documented; less widely reported was the heavy toll the storm had on animals.

Rescue on the Rez - The power of animal rescue groups working together was dramatically demonstrated when rescue groups collaborated with the Navajo Nation to save 40 dogs, 26 puppies, and three cats.

The Chicago Shift - The city's venerable Anti-Cruelty Society plans a major policy change. "The status quo needs to change," says Gene Mueller, president of the Anti-Cruelty Society. We need to work together to make the system work to save more lives."

Learning to Love - A new program gives people and dogs a second chance at life.

Minority Report - The animal protection movement has undergone profound changes in the last two decades. But as the movement grows, there is still one element that hasn't matured: how the animal welfare fellowship reaches minorities. Part One: African Americans; Part Two: The Latino Community; Part Three: Native Americans.

No More Homeless Pets Conference - A report from the conference held in Las Vegas in late April of 2004.

The Fight Over Ferals - Many cities are now promoting the right kind of care for ferals. Others say catch them and kill them. And, surprisingly, some of the nation's largest humane organizations advocate killing them, too. But killing is never the answer to anything.

Where Old Friends Are Best Friends - These days, 14-year-old Kodiak still enjoys a romp in the afternoon, but he likes his favorite comfy bed, too. There are hundreds of dogs and cats like Kodiak at Old Friends. Thanks for being their Guardian Angel.

Loving Our Dogs to Distraction - They've become our mates, partners, children, even counselors. But what's that doing to us - and them?

Looking for a Breed - What to know before you get one, where to adopt, and what to expect from various breeds. Also, Myths about Mutts - they may make you see Scruffy in a whole new light.

Pets with Diabetes - Taking care of a diabetic pet is a daily commitment, but it's a simple routine. And pets like Mia can live long, happy lives.

My Pet-Friendly Vacation - Best Friends writer Elizabeth Doyle recounts her vacation with her dog, Svetlana, along with tips for your own pet-friendly vacation.

Ferals, Doing It Right - An introduction to the world of alley cats and the basics of Trap/Neuter/Return, the key to feral cat care.

A Beautiful Life - Memorial to Nathania Gartman and her work on behalf of animals and young people, especially teenagers.

Hearts and Hands - Every year, thousands of people travel to Best Friends to visit the nation's largest animal sanctuary and lend a hand caring for the animals.

Pets Without Borders - Dedicated to our furry friends who, like many a human pioneer, will travel any distance, and search however far, for the promise of a place to call home.

Special People, Special Adoptions - Animals with special needs are all hoping for a hero - someone to overlook their physical imperfections, and love them for the quality of their hearts. And every day, there are people out there who heed the call.

Living with Wildlife - Meet some of the animals in our wildlife center, tips on what to do if you meet a wild animal that appears to need help, and living in harmony with the wild world around you.

Living with Feline Leukemia - It can be fatal to cats. But, then again, it may not be. Many kitties with FeLeuk live long, happy lives - especially here at the sanctuary.

Life with Greyhounds - More and more of these delightful dogs are finding their way into good homes as the racing industry goes into decline.

When Helping is Really Hoarding - They call themselves "rescuers" or "shelters," but they're really suffering from a serious mental illness.