Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Optimistic About Meeting With Commissioners

Fentress County’s Best Friends Animal Sanctuary hopeful about their meeting with Fentress County Commissioners.

President Sharon Cravens said in discussions with the county commission, they have tried to show how much of a benefit the shelter has been for the community. She said now that they plan on meeting one-on-one two weeks from now. She said she thinks the two entities are moving in a positive direction and could further discussions about more funding opportunities.

“I hope so at least because if the county had to start its own animal shelter it may cost double the amount that they would maybe want to donate to us to help us do funding and move the animals and taking care of them,” Cravens said. “Because we’re already in place, we have connections with other outlets and rescue groups.”

Cravens said after appearing at the county commission, word has spread about the shelter’s efforts to help animals in the county. She said she has had several individuals reach out about donating money or goods as well as time volunteering.

Cravens said Best Friends Animal Sanctuary has been established in Fentress County for 20 years. She said it originally operated from the homes of volunteers but quickly evolved into a larger operation.

“I think it’s important to step forward and do what we can to help the animals,” Cravens said. “I know there are other programs for things like the food bank and that’s very important too. I think we need to think of the animals as well and I want my grandkids to have an example of the proper care of animals. You don’t just let them run loose and uncared for, you do your best to give them care.”