In March 2000, Mary Rose returned to Best Friends for formal training in the establishment of an animal sanctuary. She also traveled to Reno, Nevada for training in emergency animal rescue. In May 2001, the Sanctuary purchased a 7.5 acre property near Kurtistown that contained a two-story home and a large shade cloth green house. In June, construction began on kennels and pens for the dogs and catteries for the cats. In October 2001, the Sanctuary completed Phase I of the construction plan. By January 2002, there were more than 50 dogs and 75 cats in residence, along with one guinea pig and six chickens. The completion of Phase I began the journey toward a much larger vision that includes expanded facilities for dogs and cats, suitable homes for larger animals, and programs linking the Sanctuary to the community. We invite you to explore this web site and join in the unfolding of the Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary vision. We also invite you to contact us to share your suggestions, ideas, and wisdom. Aloha!