Championing the Human-Animal Bond: BestyBnB Receives the 2025 NAVC Gives Marquee Award

In an inspiring moment at the 2025 Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando, Florida, BestyBnB was honored with the prestigious 2025 NAVC Gives Marquee Award. This recognition, coupled with a $25,000 prize, highlights the organization’s vital mission to secure temporary housing for pets whose owners face some of life’s most challenging crises, including domestic violence, mental health struggles, and housing instability.

What is BestyBnB?

Founded in Kansas City, Missouri, BestyBnB operates a technology platform dedicated to fostering a safe haven for pets during turbulent times in their owners’ lives. With a staggering statistic revealing that fewer than 5% of domestic violence shelters allow pets on-site, it becomes clear that BestyBnB fills a crucial gap in the welfare of both pets and their humans. The organization has successfully reunited thousands of families with their beloved animals, boasting a remarkable 100% reunification rate since its inception in 2022.

• Partnerships: BestyBnB collaborates with a diverse network of organizations, including animal welfare groups, domestic violence shelters, mental health agencies, and services for veterans and the homeless. This collaborative approach amplifies their impact, allowing them to provide immediate and effective solutions for families in crisis.
• Addressing Urgent Needs: In moments of distress, pets are often left behind, which can lead to devastating outcomes. Research indicates that approximately 70% of pets abandoned amid crises face abuse or even death in retaliation against their owners.

Recognition at VMX 2025

During the award presentation, Gene O’Neill, CEO of the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), extolled the significant strides BestyBnB has made on a national scale. O’Neill celebrated the organization’s growth and its meaningful role in reconnecting families during their most vulnerable moments. Co-founder Matthew Krentz expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, indicating that the award would help raise awareness of their mission within the veterinary community, which plays a pivotal role in the health and well-being of pets across the country.

The NAVC Gives Program

The NAVC Gives program, launched in 2023, aims to uplift individuals and organizations making a diverse range of impactful contributions within the veterinary field. With a commitment of $1 million, NAVC Gives has already awarded nearly $100,000 to various honorees who are often overlooked despite their significant contributions.

Highlights from VMX 2025

The VMX 2025 conference was a hub of knowledge and inspiration, with highlights that extended beyond BestyBnB’s award. From conservation efforts targeting endangered species to a full-day symposium focused on the critical role of bees in our ecosystem, the event united veterinary professionals from all over the globe, emphasizing the collective commitment to animal welfare.

Conclusion: The Importance of the Human-Animal Bond

BetsyBnB’s innovative platform and unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of pets during crisis situations is undoubtedly transforming lives. As we celebrate their accomplishments, it’s essential to ponder: how can we, as a community, continue to strengthen the bonds between humans and animals? The success of BestyBnB is a testament to the potential for compassion and innovation to create meaningful change. If you’re inspired by their mission, consider sharing this post, clapping for their efforts, and engaging in the comments below.

Let us work together to shine a light on those who are working tirelessly behind the scenes to safeguard the vital relationship between pets and their owners. Together, we can foster a world where no pet is left behind!

What are your thoughts on the role of organizations like BestyBnB in promoting animal welfare? Share your insights in the comments!

• animal welfare
• family reunification
• veterinary care
• community support
• human-animal bond