Author: Robin Mason, GFAS

July 31, 2020 (Chapada dos Guimaraes, Brazil) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, has awarded Accredited status to Global Sanctuary for Elephants (GSE) (Elephant Sanctuary Brazil) in Chapada dos Guimaraes, Brazil as of July 22, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that Global Sanctuary for Elephants meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards, as well as adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education and outreach, security and safety, and other operational aspects. This accredited status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors and grantors to recognize Global Sanctuary for Elephants as an exceptional organization.

“We are thrilled to announce the accreditation of Global Sanctuary for Elephants,” said Kristin Leppert, GFAS Program Director – the Americas. “Global Sanctuary for Elephants and their pilot project, Elephant Sanctuary Brazil, are helping to change the paradigm for captive elephant care in South America. Elephant Sanctuary Brazil provides a permanent home where elephants are respected and cared for as individuals, allowed expansive space to roam freely, receive specialized veterinary care, and opportunity to enjoy elephant companions. A welcome and triumphant new standard of care for elephants in South America.”

“It is a great honor to receive this recognition from GFAS,” said Scott Blais, GSE Executive Director. “We are proud to be included amongst outstanding sanctuaries that strive to elevate integrity and, ultimately, the quality of life for the animals under their care. Global Sanctuary for Elephants believes providing sanctuary for animals goes well beyond the provision of a better life. To thoroughly do justice to all that is encompassed by “sanctuary,” it is necessary, and it is our responsibility, to reach beyond the established limits. Together with our supporters, volunteers, GFAS, and our new family of accredited sanctuaries, we can create a future for animals that exceeds anything we previously thought possible.”

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. For more about GFAS, visit: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Global Sanctuary for Elephants
Elephants are regarded as one of the most intelligent and emotional species, yet their lives in captivity often stifle the expression of their true nature, their true selves. Global Sanctuary for Elephants exists to provide a healing solution for captive elephants globally, allowing them to reconnect to what it means to be an elephant. Our pilot project, Elephant Sanctuary Brazil, is the only elephant sanctuary in Latin America. Our decades of expertise facilitate the adjustment of each elephant’s care to meet their specific emotional and physical needs, allowing not only their body to heal but their spirit as well. The vast, natural, safe space of their sanctuary empowers elephants to think, move, and communicate once again, all with the incomparable support of other herd members. Their journeys are not only emotional to follow, but they serve to educate about the depth of trauma that is caused by the sterile life of captivity, the resilience each individual has, and their desire to become whole again. Our goal at GSE is to give elephants back their lives. For more about GSE, visit: www.globalelephants.org.

Download press release in English here.
Download press release in Portuguese here.
Download press release in Spanish here.

July 30, 2020 (Chia Cundinamarca, Colombia) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary (JAS) as of July 21, 2020.

Verification means that Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary 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 Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are very proud to announce the recent Verification of Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary in Colombia,” said Daryl Tropea Ph.D., GFAS Program Director. “They are the first farmed animal sanctuary to be certified by GFAS not only in Colombia, but all of South America. A variety of animals including cattle, pigs, rabbits, chickens, and goats have found lifelong homes here in the Andes mountains, after suffering neglect and abuse. Juliana and her team provide the highest quality of medical and daily care as well as promoting respect for all living beings with several advocacy campaigns. Providing vegan cooking workshops and distributing free vegan meals to people in Bogota is part of their outreach program to promote plant-based diets. Also, Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary provides opportunities for visiting international volunteers and interns to learn more about the care of these wonderful animals.”

“I had this urge,” explained Juliana Castaneda Turner, Executive Director and founder of Julian’s Animal Sanctuary, “to open a place like ours to help animals in this region of the world where animals are subject to unimaginable atrocities. Fifteen years ago, we started as a shelter, and more than nine years ago we became a Farm Sanctuary.  The GFAS certification is so important, it is a guideline to continue assuring the best standard for animals, to improve, to grow, and educate in better ways. We have learned so much in the process. I thank the GFAS for always supporting, teaching, and guiding sanctuaries. This is a step forward for the liberation of animals in Colombia.”

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.

About Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary
Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary has a mission to promote equality and respect for all beings through practice and precept. In addition to our extensive animal rescue and animal care, we place a high priority on vegan advocacy through vegan cooking classes, and a strong online and media presence.

Aims and Objectives:

• To rescue and protect animals in need in Colombia
• To educate the public about the benefits of veganism
• To show that all species of animals deserve love and respect
• To teach equality of all beings
• To advocate through sharing vegan food in partnership with Food for Life Global.

Our main challenge is educating the Colombian public to care about farm animals and street animal companions. There is a general ignorance around the meaning of a sanctuary and a lack of understanding of the benefits of a plant-based diet. Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary is a registered 501c3 charity in Maryland EIN: 47-3548963 and registered charity in Bogota, Colombia: ID: 901.005.060-30. For more information, please visit, https://julianasanimalsanctuary.org/.

Download press release in English here.
Download press release in Spanish here.

July 15, 2020 (Gig Harbor, WA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Heartwood Haven Animal Sanctuary as of July 13, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that Heartwood Haven Sanctuary meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed farm 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.

“We are happy to announce the Accreditation of Heartwood Haven Animal Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea Ph.D., GFAS Program Director. “There is no denying that Heartwood Haven’s team is committed to providing a natural and safe haven for their residents, some who have very special needs. Their enclosures provide a rich habitat with bushes to hide and mud holes to wallow. Heartwood Haven Sanctuary is also a major resource for their local community in these times of need, by providing a pet food bank in partnership with local human food banks. The founders are committed to developing an animal sanctuary that is built upon a business model ensuring sustainability and success for years.”

“Accreditation to us means that the sanctuary community can move forward on having set guidelines and standards in place to follow,” explained Kate Tsyrklevich and Hope Hilman, cofounders of Heartwood Haven Sanctuary. “For Heartwood Haven, it means that the public can be confident in the work that we do because an overseeing body approves our policies and practices. We are happy to be part of this growing movement and encourage all sanctuaries to join in and work with GFAS on becoming accredited.”

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.

About Heartwood Haven Animal Sanctuary
Heartwood Haven believes every animal deserves respect and compassion. We create a peaceful environment so animals can experience a more comfortable life and receive the highest quality veterinary care, love, and attention based on their individual needs. Our mission is to provide sanctuary to abused, neglected, mistreated, and homeless animals while educating the public about the effects of animal agriculture. For more information, please visit https://heartwoodhaven.org/.

Download press release here.

May 5, 2020, (Westminster, MD) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, awarded Accredited status to Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue as of April 21, 2020.

Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue first achieved GFAS Verification in July 2019, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue has now achieved Accredited status. Accreditation signifies that Little Longears Mini Donkey Rescue meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine 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.

“We are proud to announce that Little Longears has met the rigorous requirements for GFAS Accreditation and have transitioned from Verification to Accreditation with their hard work and dedication,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Although this organization started out rescuing only miniature donkeys, they have opened their barn doors to donkeys of all sizes if the need is there. Their donkeys come from many situations but importantly, they are committed to providing a safe haven for owners to surrender their donkeys if they are no longer able to care for them. The goal is to keep donkeys out of bad situations and into new homes or sanctuary.”

“Being recognized and accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is an honor and validates the hard work we do,” stated Valerie Lowe, Executive Director of Little Longears. “Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue has worked diligently to help donkeys in need, always striving to provide the highest level of care for these wonderful animals. I think recognition by GFAS adds a level of credibility to an organization that donors seek.  To have met the rigorous standards set by GFAS in only our seventh year and know that we are one of only a few donkey rescues in the country to receive GFAS accreditation, inspires us to do even more!”

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. 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.

About Little Longears Mini Donkey Rescue
Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue is dedicated to the rescue, care, and safe sanctuary, when needed, of neglected, abused, or otherwise unwanted donkeys.  The organization also provides a safe haven for owners to surrender their donkeys to, in the event that they are no longer able to care for them.  For more information, visit https://www.littlelongears.org

Download press release here.

April 29, 2020, (Coxsackie, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, awarded Accredited status to Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation as of April 21, 2020.

Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation first achieved GFAS Verification in September 2019, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation has now achieved Accredited status. Accreditation signifies that Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine 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.

“Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation is an exceptional organization committed to the needs of off-the-track Thoroughbreds,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Since their establishment in 2004, they have helped transition 100’s of horses to new beginnings. Also, we are very proud and encouraged by organizations that complete the verification process and continue on to develop their programs to meet the rigorous requirements of accreditation.”

“Becoming Accredited by GFAS is vital to assure the public that the work we are conducting on a daily basis adheres to the highest standards of equine care, fiscal transparency, and strategic planning for the future. It is a badge of honor,” said Susan Kayne, Founder and CEO of Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation. “Growing through the rigorous process of earning Accreditation has strengthened and emboldened our Team with a new dimension of confidence to weather the COVID-19 pandemic and to achieve our goals and vision with integrity and unity. It is a privilege to see Unbridled join the global community of distinguished organizations Accredited by GFAS.”

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. 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.

About Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation
Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation is devoted to providing sanctuary for Thoroughbreds. Since 2004, we have helped many dozens of Thoroughbreds transition from the slaughter-pipeline into loving homes. We advocate for respectful care of the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of Thoroughbreds throughout their natural lifespan. The stories of our permanent Sanctuary residents serve to educate the public on the evolving needs of Thoroughbreds. Our work is guided by the fundamental principle that every equine life is deserving of compassion, protection from harm, and moral consideration for his or her inherent dignity, worth, and uniqueness as an individual being.  For more information, visit http://Unbridledfoundation.org.

Download press release here.