Best Friends Annual Conference

Our next National Conference will be August 10-12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.

You’re invited to join us to work together and save more lives at the Best Friends National Conference, happening August 10-12 in Houston.

At the Best Friends National Conference presented by Petco Love, you’ll learn how to make an impact in your community from presenters from different backgrounds and organization types, including leaders in animal welfare, marketing, DE&I, government relations, and more — and all while having fun!

Plus, you’ll make meaningful connections with fellow animal welfare volunteers and staff members from across the country.

Hear from leading experts in animal welfare

This year’s exciting lineup of speakers ensures that you’ll hear about the latest and most thought-provoking innovations.

Here’s a sneak peek at our list of engaging and informative speakers:

Chumkee Aziz, Outreach Veterinarian at University of California-Davis

Oliver Lacosta, Animal Care Supervisor, Rescue Lead at Animal Rescue Foundation

Jerrica Owen, Executive Director at National Animal Care Association

Paula Powell, Senior Manager South Central Region at Best Friends Animal Society

Mike Wheeler, Director of Community Services at Cabot Animal Support Services

Faith Wright, Director of Operations at Palm Valley Animal Society

Meet More Speakers

Smiling people at the Best Friends National Conference

Learn how to create lasting change

The conference schedule was designed to give you the newest, most advanced lifesaving tips and techniques from leaders in animal welfare, as well as connect you with speakers from other areas of expertise.

You can find out how to increase live outcomes, run more successful fundraising campaigns, create a positive culture, and much more. No matter which sessions you attend, you will discover how to implement what you’re learning into your own organization or community.

See the Schedule 

Smiling volunteer holding a sign that says "How can I help?"

Volunteer and help save lives 

Want to have fun while making a difference? Volunteer at the Best Friends National Conference! 

As a volunteer, you’ll not only be giving a helping hand, but you’ll also be able to connect and swap stories and cute photos with fellow volunteers.

Smiling person holding a tshirt at the Best Friends National Conference

Planning your trip 

From exclusive lodging rates to travel and parking information, we’ve compiled all the information you need to plan your trip to the conference at the Marriott Marquis in Houston.

Plan Your Trip

Group of smiling people standing at a conference exhibitor booth

Strengthen your brand by becoming an exhibitor

Exhibiting at the Best Friends National Conference gives you the opportunity to interact with attendees face to face, generating visibility and credibility for your company. 

You can showcase your products or services to hundreds of highly passionate animal welfare leaders and gain exposure with leading decision makers.

Become an Exhibitor

Show your company’s compassion and dedication to saving lives by sponsoring the Best Friends National Conference.

As a sponsor of the Best Friends National Conference, you’ll boost awareness of your brand among an engaged audience (including leaders in animal welfare) who are ready to share their thoughts and experiences with you.

Become a Sponsor

Still not convinced you should join us this year?

Check out these highlights from last year's conference.

A special thank-you to our 2023 sponsors!

Presented by:

Premier Sponsor:

With additional support from:

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary App
Experience the magic of the Sanctuary during your visit to Kanab, Utah or from your couch.
ResQWalk
Helping animals one step at a time.

In the Spotlight

As seen on National Geographic’s DogTown and the CW's Dog Town USA. And the inspiration behind the critically acclaimed film, The Champions.

Submissions to speak at the 2023 Conference are now closed! Thank you to everyone who submitted their proposals. Decisions will be made in early March!!