Author: Robin Mason, GFAS

January 15, 2026 (Howell, MI) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Horses’ Haven as of December 25, 2025.

Horses’ Haven, located in Michigan, achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Horses’ Haven has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Horses’ Haven meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Horses’ Haven as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for Horses’ Haven.,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at Horses’ Haven provides excellent care for rescued horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. These equines are provided a safe place to decompress and rehabilitate with the goal of finding them a forever home.”

Kristine Dvonch, Executive Director, Horses’ Haven states, “The GFAS Accreditation is incredibly important to Horses’ Haven. It shows our dedication to providing top notch care for every animal that crosses our gates. It shows our community and donors that we are the definition of “Sanctuary”- a safe place, a place of refuge.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org. 

About Horses’ Haven
Founded in 1995, Horses’ Haven is a 501(c)(3) in Howell, Michigan. Our Mission is to Rescue, Rehabilitate, Retrain and Re-home at risk equines. We assist law enforcement agencies and accept surrendered horses from owners. Our goal is to find every horse in our care a forever home through adoption. This is accomplished through medical rehabilitation and training to ensure each horse, ridable or not, has the skills needed to be a good equine citizen. We are passionate in educating law enforcement, providing free hands-on clinics to give them the skills to evaluate, document and handle horses. That also extends to our up-and-coming veterinarians, allowing students from Michigan State University School of Veterinary Medicine opportunities to gain hands-on treatment experience in a real-life farm setting. Our Board of Directors, a small staff, and more than 130 volunteers are the foundation of caring for up to 70 equines at any given time. Horses’ Haven averages 100+ new intakes and 80+ adoptions per year. To learn more about Horses’ Haven, go to: https://www.horseshaven.org/.

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January 8, 2026 (Bend, OR) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Happy Trails Horse Rescue as of December 15, 2025.

Happy Trails Horse Rescue achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Happy Trails has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Happy Trails meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Happy Trails Horse Rescue as an excellent organization.

“Their team demonstrates a deep commitment to equine welfare through both high-quality animal care and meaningful community support programs. Happy Trails plays an important role in Central Oregon by providing safe refuge for horses at risk, while also working proactively to prevent surrender and neglect through education, resources, and compassionate outreach.,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine. “Their dedication to equine well-being and responsible sanctuary management is commendable.”

“Achieving GFAS Accreditation is a huge milestone we are incredibly proud of,” said Dianne Scott, Founder of Happy Trails Horse Rescue. “As someone who spent much of my career as a project manager, I appreciated how thorough and structured the accreditation process was. It pushed us to tighten our systems, strengthen our documentation, and ensure that every area of our operation meets the highest standards. Completing this process reaffirmed our commitment to doing right by the horses and operating with full transparency and professionalism.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care for the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtuallyunchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Happy Trails Horse Rescue
Happy Trails Horse Rescue, located in Bend Oregon, is dedicated to the protection of horses and their quality of life, to be free from abuse, neglect, abandonment, slaughter, or early euthanasia without just cause within Central Oregon. While we strive to rescue those horses in need, we also provide community outreach, education, and resources, such as our Surrender Prevention Program.

We believe that every equine deserves respect, love, compassion, and dignity, regardless of age, health, or behavior. Hence, we pledge to do whatever we can to facilitate the ability of rescued horses to live. To learn more about Happy Trails Horse Rescue, go to: www.happytrailshr.org.

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December 18, 2025 (Rio Grande, Puerto Rico) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verification status to Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare Inc (CTA) as of December 15, 2025.

Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare, the first organization certified in Puerto Rico, achieved GFAS Verification, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, CTA has achieved GFAS Verification. This certification signifies that CTA meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare Inc as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Verification status for Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare.” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at CTA provides quality care for horses in need in Puerto Rico. These discarded horses are given a chance to heal, learn new skills, and build trust.”

“Being approved by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is a tremendous honor for Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare,” said Kelley Stobie, Co-Founder & Executive Director, CTA. “This recognition affirms our commitment to going above and beyond to provide a well-structured, safe haven for horses in the Caribbean. Our team is dedicated not only to the lifelong well-being of the horses in our care, but also to educating the public on responsible equine welfare and management. We are deeply grateful to GFAS for welcoming us into a community of such respected organizations and individuals.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care for the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare Inc.

Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare (CTA) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the IRS and certified under Puerto Rico’s 1101.01(a)(2) tax code. Our mission is to provide a compassionate and responsible pathway to retirement for Thoroughbred racehorses across the Caribbean. We believe every horse deserves a peaceful and dignified retirement, surrounded by people who value and care for them. As the only organization solely dedicated to this cause in the Caribbean, we are proud to make a real difference in the lives of these incredible animals.

Each year, approximately 500 Thoroughbreds are imported into Puerto Rico to race at the local Racetrack, which is home to over 1,300 horses. This high volume makes our work more vital than ever. To learn more about the Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare Inc, go to: https://www.ctahorse.com/.

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October 28, 2025 (Huntington Beach, CA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Free Rein Foundation as of October 20, 2025.

Free Rein Foundation achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Free Rein has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Free Rein Foundation meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Free Rein Foundation as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for Free Rein Foundation.,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at Free Rein provides sanctuary for abused and unwanted horses. These horses are truly given the opportunity to heal and to help young people heal too.”

Justine Makoff, President, Free Rein Foundation states, “We are deeply grateful to the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries for this accreditation. It not only acknowledges the important work we do at Free Rein Foundation but also substantiates what we have built over the past eleven years. As a volunteer-run organization, we are honored to receive this recognition and hope it inspires others to see our sanctuary as worthy of their philanthropic support. The accreditation process was both rigorous and enlightening, every aspect of our operation was reviewed. We can proudly say that Free Rein Foundation runs an outstanding sanctuary, providing the utmost care and respect for every animal in our charge.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care for the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Free Rein Foundation
Founded in 2014, Free Rein Foundation is a nonprofit equine sanctuary located in Huntington Beach, California. Over the past 11 years, we have rescued more than 40 abused, neglected, or unwanted horses—some still live in our sanctuary herd—and successfully re-homed 14 into safe, loving environments.

Our mission is twofold: to provide a lifelong, loving sanctuary for horses in need and to harness their natural, intuitive healing abilities to support youth facing mental health challenges. Through equine-assisted programs, we have helped over 5,000 young people build confidence, emotional resilience, and a sense of connection.

At Free Rein Foundation, horses and humans heal together—restoring trust, fostering compassion, and creating a better future for both. To learn more about Free Rein Foundation, go to: https://freereinfoundation.org/

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October 10, 2025 (McKinney, TX) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Farmhouse Fresh Animal Sanctuary as of August 10, 2025.

Verification signifies that Farmhouse Fresh Animal Sanctuary meets GFAS’ rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Verification also signifies adherence to standards addressing ethical principles, staffing, security and safety and other operational aspects. Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Farmhouse Fresh as an exceptional organization.

“Farmhouse Fresh is a fresh take on the sanctuary model and we are thrilled to welcome them to the GFAS family” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. She continues, “Using their cruelty-free skincare line to support their sanctuary work, they’re able to take on some of the toughest equine and ruminant cases and provide highly specialized care, rehabilitation and lifetime sanctuary to animals in need. They further increase their impact through their unique Foster-To-Heal program, assisting other rescues by providing critical medical care early on, building their capacity for care. Through their visitation program “where skincare meets rescue” visitors get to form connections with the animals supported by those products. This is self-care, sanctuary style, and we’re excited for all they have in store.”

“It’s such a proud moment for my team,” said Elise Khan, Sanctuary Manager, “Each horse, donkey, and farm animal at our sanctuary carries a story of healing. GFAS Verification affirms our daily commitment to providing lifesaving care of the highest standard. We couldn’t do this without the staff, volunteers, and supporters, whose compassion and generosity makes true sanctuary possible.”

In 2025, FarmHouse Fresh Animal Sanctuary is fundraising to expand their rescue & recovery village and education center.  This expansion will help support waves of up to 20 critical-condition cases within our Foster-to-Heal equine program, with a temperature-controlled barn for round the clock care.  Additionally, the Sanctuary hosts 2,000 visitors from all over the globe yearly, as well as corporate volunteer groups, and special needs organizations. “Our Sanctuary is such a special place, where our supporters directly transform lives,” said Khan. “You can be a forever part of our Sanctuary through the purchase of memorial bricks, fence posts – or even name gazebos and buildings on our campus. Every dollar will carry our mission forward for years to come,” said Khan.  

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at Humane World for Animals, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Farmhouse Fresh Animal Sanctuary
Located on 10 hilly acres surrounding FarmHouse Fresh skincare headquarters, our registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit farm animal sanctuary provides 24/7 care for some of the most challenging animal cruelty and neglect cases.

Our uniquely skilled team focuses on specialized lifelong care including starvation cases, injuries, long-term special needs like blindness, amputations, chronic ailments, senior and end of life care. Home to 60 horse, donkey, sheep and goat residents, with foster-to-heal programs that allow us to assist in the critical early medical stages of rescue for other organizations. To learn more visit https://fhfanimalsanctuary.org/

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October 9, 2025 (Good Hope, GA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary as of August 9, 2025.

Accreditation signifies that Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary (FOTF) meets GFAS’ rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education, outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize FOTF as an exceptional organization.

“From the moment I stepped onto the sanctuary, Farm of the Free has struck me not only as a welcoming place of freedom for animals, but a professional, clear-eyed organization creating a safe space in their community” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. She continues, “Small in size but mighty in impact, Farm of the Free not only provides a loving home for rescued farmed animals but has also created an important safe space for animal advocates and vegans. This invitation to the community to support their work and be a part of it has created the type of outreach opportunity we know creates greater change. The warmth, intentionality and enthusiasm they bring to sanctuary work is wonderful to witness and we couldn’t be happier to welcome them into the GFAS family.”

Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary’s mission is “creating a space where every being feels safe to be exactly who they are.” Our vision is to foster a compassionate society through immersive education and advocacy, promoting veganism and a world where every individual is respected and valued. “We aim to provide a safe, loving home for rescued farm animals, prioritize their comfort and health, and serve as a beacon for compassionate living” says Ryan Bulzan, Executive Director.

He continues, “By inspiring people to make ethical choices, our goal is to create a future where harmony between humans and animals is the norm. Our GFAS accreditation is a huge achievement! Since opening in 2017, we’ve grown into a thriving sanctuary for chickens, goats, sheep, cows, and donkeys. Most recently, we welcomed four rescued cows who now live in our expanded Paddock Paradise pasture. This year, we also brought our educational work into the classroom with a presentation at the University of Georgia, sharing residents’ stories and the importance of compassionate living. We also partnered with a student group at Emory University to create a consistent stream of new volunteers at the sanctuary.

We continue to build community through events like our annual Flocktoberfest fundraiser, monthly Volunteer + Vegan Potluck Days, and regular social nights at local vegan restaurants who partner with us. These gatherings allow supporters to connect, celebrate compassion, and uplift businesses that share our mission. Looking ahead, we plan to transform unused land on the sanctuary with new enclosures and fencing so we can rescue more animals and tell their stories.

GFAS Accreditation is both a validation and a milestone. It affirms that Farm of the Free meets the highest standards for animal care, safety, and nonprofit governance. For our team, it’s recognition of the countless hours that caregivers, volunteers, and board members dedicate every day. For our supporters, it’s reassurance that their donations directly fuel ethical, sustainable, and compassionate care. Most of all, it celebrates how far we’ve come and sets the stage for the future impact we’re ready to make.”

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at Humane World for Animals, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary
Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary’s mission is “creating a space where every being feels safe to be exactly who they are.” Our vision is to foster a compassionate society through immersive education and advocacy, promoting veganism and a world where every individual is respected and valued. After being founded in 2017, FOTF has rescued many farm animals in need. They provide a safe haven for residents to live out their natural lives. To learn more visit www.farmofthefree.org.

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September 23, 2025 (Alberta, Canada) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to The Parsons Animal Rescue Foundation (PARF) as of September 20, 2025.

PARF achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating elevated levels of professionalism, The Parsons Animal Rescue Foundation has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that PARF meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize The Parsons Animal Rescue as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for The Parsons Animal Rescue Foundation.,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at PARF provides compassionate and high-quality care for abused and neglected horses. These horses are truly given a second chance.”

Dayna Hammond, Executive Director, The Parsons Animal Rescue Foundation states, “Going through the GFAS Accreditation process has been a gift to our sanctuary as it has helped deepen our commitment to the horses we serve, has given us structure to grow with integrity, and has affirmed that compassion and professionalism can go hand in hand. We are now better equipped to carry out our mission of giving traumatized horses a second chance at life and hope that this accreditation helps reassure our supporters that we meet the highest standards of animal welfare and organizational excellence.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org. 

About The Parsons Animal Rescue Foundation
At the Parsons Animal Rescue Foundation, we are dedicated to giving abused and neglected horses a second chance at life through compassionate rehabilitation, training, and rehoming. In partnership with the Alberta SPCA and local rescues, we work to heal both the visible and invisible scars left by cruelty, while advocating for the humane treatment of all equines. Inspired by a legacy of kindness and empathy, we strive to end the inhumane export of horses for slaughter and ensure every horse finds safety, dignity, and a forever home. Learn more about PARF at:  https://www.parsonsanimalrescue.com/

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September 4, 2025 (Ontario, Canada) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary (SBFPS) as of August 5, 2025.

Verification means that Story Book Farm meets the criteria of a true animal sanctuary and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors and grantors to recognize Story Book Farm as an exceptional organization.

“We are happy to announce the recent Verification of Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary, a peaceful and private permanent home for a variety of rescued primates,” said Kristin Leppert, GFAS Program Director-Wildlife. “Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary is the first GFAS certified primate sanctuary in Ontario and only monkey sanctuary in Canada. We are proud to recognize their effort to achieve Verification. The sanctuary team’s dedication to the GFAS Standards of Excellence means Story Book Farm’s residents receive high quality veterinary care, nutritious diets, engaging enrichment and the freedom to exercise choice. The remaining days of their lives will be marked by safety, respect and love in their true sanctuary home.”

” We are incredibly honoured and grateful to be recognised by GFAS. This reflects the work that we do constantly to improve the lives of monkeys and lemurs who did not choose to be in captivity – monkeys who have been allowed to retire after completing their research obligations, monkeys and lemurs who have been saved from abuse and neglect at roadside zoos or have suffered as pets.” said Daina Liepa, Executive Director of Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary. 

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner.www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary

Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary is a Canadian registered charity and is the only monkey-focused sanctuary in Canada.  Our monkeys and lemurs come from various backgrounds – as pets and victims of the exotic animal trade, after having been seized from roadside zoos by animal welfare authorities because of abuse and neglect plus the very few monkeys that are allowed to retire after having fulfilled their use as research subjects in labs.

Our mandate is to provide a place of safety.  We offer freedom from fear.  We are a place of healing and recovery from trauma.  At Story Book Farm we believe that all animals have rights: that animals have the right to live free of fear or pain from humans and that we can all make a difference, one being at a time.

More information about our residents and the work we do can be found on our website: https://www.storybookmonkeys.org/

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Verde Valley, Arizona — [August 12, 2025] – The Selah Carefarm, the first carefarm of its kind in the world integrating a farmed animal sanctuary with therapeutic grief support, is proud to announce that it has been officially Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) as of July 18, 2025.

The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries. This prestigious verification means that Selah Carefarm meets the criteria of a true farmed animal sanctuary and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Selah Carefarm as an exceptional organization.

“In our work with hundreds of sanctuaries, we recognize how much animal sanctuaries can serve as safe spaces for all animals, humans included – but Selah Carefarm fully embraces and embodies the healing potential of the human-non-human animal relationship” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director.  “Selah Carefarm truly recognizes the universality of pain, trauma and grief that we humans share with other species, as well as the resilience of those supported to heal. In doing so they send a powerful message about empathy and compassion across species and provide a powerful platform to care for humans and nonhumans. We are thrilled to welcome them to the GFAS family.”

“This verification is a powerful acknowledgment of the deep care, love, and responsibility we extend to every being who finds refuge at Selah Carefarm,” said Kelli Montgomery, Executive Director. “For us, the nonhuman animals are not just residents here — they are family, teachers, and fellow travelers in the shared experience of trauma and healing. This recognition honors their stories too.”

A Sanctuary for the Grieving and the Voiceless
Founded in 2016 by Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, professor, researcher, and bereaved mother, Selah Carefarm was born from a vision to provide trauma-informed, non-pathologizing support for individuals navigating traumatic grief — especially the death of a child, spouse, parent, or other beloved one. Nestled in the high desert of Northern Arizona, the Carefarm offers a peaceful haven where grief is not pathologized, but held with reverence and care.

The farm is home to more than 50 nonhuman animals — including rescued horses, pigs, cows, goats, sheep, donkeys, and dogs — many of whom were saved from severe neglect or abuse. These animals live freely and without exploitation, serving not as therapy tools but as sentient beings who share in relationship and mutual presence with broken hearted humans who come from all over the world.

Unlike traditional, clinical bereavement services or equine-assisted programs, the Selah Carefarm operates within an ethic of radical compassion and connection. Every individual — human or nonhuman animal — is treated with dignity, respect, and love.

What GFAS Verification Means
The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is the only globally recognized organization that certifies animal sanctuaries based on rigorous standards of care, safety, and ethical practices. GFAS verification ensures that sanctuaries operate transparently, provide lifetime care for animals, and do not breed, sell, or exploit the animals in their care.

By achieving GFAS verification, Selah Carefarm affirms its commitment to excellence in nonhuman animal welfare, responsible governance, and sustainable practices — while continuing its mission to support grieving individuals through meaningful, community-based care.

A Future Rooted in Compassion
“This milestone helps ensure that our mission will continue to grow in integrity and compassion,” said Montgomery. “It allows us to expand our impact, seek ethical partnerships, and deepen our care for both humans and nonhuman animals. Most importantly, it reflects what we do here — love, grieve, remember, and care.”

To learn more about the Selah Carefarm or to support its mission, visit www.selahcarefarm.org.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

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