Media contacts:
Carolyn Speed: 850 324-2438
carolynspeed1@gmail.com
or publicrelations@havenforanimals.org
July 15, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ANIMAL SHELTER RECEIVES NO-KILL AWARD FROM BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY
Pictured from left to right: Michael Graham , The Haven Executive Director, Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan, and Macalah Dunnam Fairhope Animal Control Officer.
FAIRHOPE, Ala. — The Haven No-Kill Animal Shelter, in partnership with the City of Fairhope, proudly announces their recognition for achieving and maintaining “no-kill” status in 2023 by Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters. This award is given to both shelters for saving more than 90% of the dogs and cats in their care during the calendar year.
Best Friends Animal Society recognizes this significant achievement as a model for other shelters in the Southeast.
“This award represents extraordinary leadership, both within your organization and the broader animal welfare movement,” said Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. “I want to acknowledge and thank the organizations around the country who work tirelessly to save lives, helping move us closer to ending the killing of cats and dogs in shelters by 2025.”
As a member of the Best Friends Network—a coalition of over 3,700 animal welfare entities nationwide—the City of Fairhope Animal Shelter and The Haven actively collaborate with other organizations to improve the lives of dogs and cats in the community.
“I am incredibly proud of the work done by Michael Graham, the Haven staff, the volunteers, and Fairhope’s animal control officer,” said Mayor Sherry Sullivan. “This remarkable achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and compassion. With community support, we can continue to build a brighter future for all our furry friends.”
Michael Graham, Executive Director of The Haven, expressed his gratitude: “We are profoundly grateful to Best Friends Animal Society for this recognition, which honors our efforts and reinforces the impact of our mission. This accolade from such a respected organization validates our approach and energizes our commitment to ensuring every animal receives the chance they deserve. It’s a powerful reminder that together, we can forge a future where no pet is left behind.”
In 2023, the shelter made significant strides toward the Best Friends Animal Society No Kill Award, hosting a series of successful adoption events that led to a record number of animals finding forever homes. A pivotal meeting with city officials increased support and resources for their programs, enhancing outreach efforts. Community engagement initiatives, including TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return), low-cost spay and neuter services, and educational workshops, boosted positive public perception and fostered a culture of compassion for animals in the area.
The journey to no-kill status for both The Haven and the City of Fairhope Animal Shelter has been characterized by strong strategic partnerships, extensive community support, and a steadfast dedication to the welfare of animals in their care. This recognition demonstrates what can be achieved when people, organizations, and communities unite behind the shared goal of saving lives and ensuring every pet finds a loving home.
About Best Friends Animal Society
Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters and make the country no-kill in 2025. Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the no-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of animals killed in shelters from an estimated 17 million per year to 415,000 last year. Best Friends runs lifesaving programs across the country, as well as the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary. Working collaboratively with a network of more than 4,700 animal welfare and shelter partners, and community members nationwide, Best Friends is working to Save Them All®. For more information, visit bestfriends.org.
About The City of Fairhope Animal Control
The City of Fairhope Animal Control Department is dedicated to protecting stray, injured, abused, and unwanted animals. Their mission encompasses educating the community and collaborating with law enforcement to ensure the safety of both people and pets. The department investigates animal-related complaints to ensure proper care, rescues trapped or abandoned animals, addresses instances of animal cruelty, and facilitates the placement of unwanted animals in loving homes. Through these efforts, the department promotes responsible pet ownership and enhances community well-being.
To learn more about The City of Fairhope Animal Control please visit www.fairhopeal.gov/departments/first-responders/animal-control
About The Haven
The Haven, founded in 2000, is the first no-kill animal shelter in Baldwin County, with a mission to shelter and find adoptive homes for homeless, abused, and neglected cats and dogs. The Haven has been recognized nationally for its outstanding work. The Haven promotes the importance of spaying and neutering pets and pet responsibility through education, advocacy, programs and services. The Haven’s lifesaving programs have served over 11,000 pets since its inception. As a nonprofit, The Haven relies heavily on donor support, volunteers, and limited staff to achieve its mission. The website is www.HavenForAnimals.org
Donate online on the website or by sending a check to: The Haven, P. O. Box 1063, Fairhope, AL.