Best Friends recently took a dog with behavior problems from the California Animal Care Center and sent them five dogs, three of which have already been adopted. Perhaps one of the most important services sanctuaries provide is in the area of education. The Sanctuary at Valley View Farm is home to the Human-Animal Bond Resource and Education Center, providing information, seminars and training classes about animal care and behavior. Haven of the Ozarks sponsors an assisted placement program. The Haven advertises pets that the owners wish to give up, and the owners can participate in the adoption process by updating their pets' shots, etc., and sometimes even meeting with prospective adopters.
Many sanctuaries sponsor programs aimed at teaching children respect and compassion for animals.
As part of its Humane Education Program, Best Friends visits Utah schools and nearby Indian reservations. They hold workshops for teachers and humane educators, as well as workshops for people wanting to start a sanctuary. In addition, students of all ages are invited to tour the sanctuary and participate in service-learning programs. Home For Life sponsors a very special outreach called the Renaissance Program. Named after the Renaissance School, an alternative school in River Falls, WI, this program is designed to help kids who are at risk because of behavior problems.