2022 Cause for Paws

  Click here to open the 2022 Cause for Paws Digital Program Click here to learn more about the Animal Compassion Fund Thank you for attending Cause for Paws, the signature fundraising event for Young-Williams Animal Center. As Knox County’s official animal shelter, we care for nearly 10,000 stray, lost, injured, abused or neglected pets annually. This event celebrates our … Read More

Protect your pet this July Fourth

How to keep your pets safe during July Fourth celebrations. Young-Williams Animal Center does not recommend bringing pets to a Fourth of July party where fireworks might be used. Fireworks and loud noises can cause pets to become frightened or disoriented. Keep your pets inside when fireworks are being set off. Turn on calming music or a fan to muffle … Read More

How Young-Williams Animal Center is achieving extraordinary outcomes

  It wasn’t that long ago that Young-Williams Animal Center had to stare down many of the same challenges faced by shelters across the country – increasing intake numbers, a declining save rate and uncertainty about the future. However, when CEO Janet Testerman assumed management of the nonprofit in 2016, it was her mission to make a positive difference for … Read More

Statement from Janet Testerman, CEO of Young-Williams Animal Center

Earlier this year, our community shared in our sorrow and frustration as we said goodbye to Bridget. Severely neglected and then abandoned behind a dumpster, this sweet dog captured all of our hearts. Bridget’s plight helped bring attention to the tragedy of long-term animal neglect and abuse and raised awareness for free resources and help available to pet owners. In … Read More

Start a new career, save lives

Young-Williams Animal Center is hiring driven leaders to direct the shelter’s fundraising and messaging as the nonprofit increases its impact in East Tennessee. Open positions include director of development and marketing and communications director. The results of our programs and services save lives, strengthen the animal-human bond and make our community a better place for pets and their people. In … Read More

$25 Adoptions Thanks to the Bissell Pet Foundation “Empty the Shelters” Event!

BISSELL Pet Foundation Sponsor Reduced Adoption Fees Across the Country Young-Williams Animal Center part of 275+ shelters participating in the spring “Empty the Shelters” event Knoxville, TN —As shelters across the country face overcrowding, BISSELL Pet Foundation is aiming to “Empty the Shelters” by sponsoring reduced adoption fees to $25 from May 2-15. This event will be hosted in more … Read More

Adoption Enriches More Lives Than One

When Mr. Jones came into the shelter and met Bean, he knew it was meant to be. A little over six months later, and little Bean has changed his life. Mr. Jones has had many struggles, suffering from PTSD and depression, but the unconditional love in Bean has changed his life for the better. “Bean has been a life-changer.” says … Read More

Happy outcomes, thanks to PetSmart Charities and our Animal Haven Program

Lola with owner

We are so grateful to PetSmart Charities for awarding Young-Williams Animal Center with their Preserving Families Grant to support our Animal Haven Program. Below you will read many stories of happiness and hope that this grant made possible. Click here to read our announcement about the awarded grant. If you, or someone you know, needs help with their pet, please … Read More

Abandoned dog that captured Knoxville’s heart succumbs to illness

Young-Williams Animal Center announced today that Bridget, the female dog recently found on Jenkins Road by Knoxville Police Department Animal Control officers, passed away on March 15. Despite the two-week effort by a team of veterinarians, specialists and staff to save her life, Bridget’s health took a turn for the worse Tuesday, and she succumbed to her illness. “We’re deeply … Read More