Thanks to a community that came together with tools, teamwork, and a shared commitment to helping pets stay where they belong, three local families now have secure spaces for their dogs to safely call their own.
On June 14, 2026, Better Together Animal Alliance (BTAA) partnered with Cedar Hills Church and Humble & Black Real Estate as part of Cedar Hills’ annual Serve Sandpoint event to complete three fencing projects for local families in need. Throughout the morning, volunteer teams spread out across the community, setting posts, stretching fencing, and transforming open yards into safe, enclosed spaces where dogs can run, play, and remain at home with the people who love them.
The Good Neighbors Fencing Project was created to address a challenge many pet owners face. A secure fence can provide safety and peace of mind, but the cost of installation can be out of reach for some families. By removing that barrier, the project helps prevent pets from roaming, becoming lost, or ending up in animal shelters.
In 2025 alone, BTAA took in 177 stray dogs. While every situation is unique, access to a secure outdoor space can play an important role in helping keep pets safe and with their families.
“These fences are so much more than just T-posts,” said Mandy Evans, President & CEO of Better Together Animal Alliance. “They’re peace of mind. They’re safety. They’re a way to help prevent pets from becoming lost, injured, or surrendered. Most importantly, they’re a reminder of what can happen when neighbors step up to help neighbors.”
The project was made possible through the generosity of Humble & Black Real Estate and the dedication of volunteer teams from Cedar Hills Church, who donated their time, energy, and hard work to make the builds a reality.
For the three households selected for this year’s project, the impact was immediate. What started as ordinary yards became secure spaces for beloved family dogs – and a lasting reminder that a caring community can make a meaningful difference.
BTAA extends its sincere gratitude to Cedar Hills Church, Humble & Black Real Estate, and every volunteer who spent the day building more than fences. Together, they built peace of mind, strengthened families, and helped ensure that more pets can stay safe at home, right where they belong.
Sometimes being a good neighbor is as simple as lending a hand – and building a fence that keeps a family together.