Petco Love Stories 2022

Petco Love Stories celebrates — and returns — the love that we share with our pets. Since 2013, more than 20,000 adopters have shared how pets have changed their lives, and Petco Love has awarded nearly $7 million in grants to the dedicated and hardworking animal welfare organizations – like Young-Williams Animal Center– that make these adoption matches possible. This year, … 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

Kitten season is coming!

Did you know? Cats are seasonal breeders. This means that during the winter months, cats generally aren’t reproducing, but come spring, cats begin to seek a mate and that means a huge uptick in litters of kittens needing our help. While we love caring for these sweet babies, shelter resources are stretched thin during Kitten Season. We will see thousands … 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

Statement from Young-Williams Animal Center management

Re: Knoxville Police Department Animal Control statement (linked here) Earlier this evening, Young-Williams Animal Center received two dogs and one cat who were confiscated by Knoxville Police Department Animal Control during an animal cruelty investigation. The three pets appear to be in fair condition and are being examined by our veterinary team. We will provide more updates as available. The … Read More

Show Your Support for Homeless Pets This Holiday Season

  As the end of another year approaches, we can’t help but be filled with gratitude. We reflect on all the lives saved this year and the families who have grown by adding a pet to their homes. Compassionate donors like you make such a game-changing difference for lost, stray, injured, abused, and neglected animals in our community.  Dobby’s Story … Read More