Author: Robin Mason, GFAS

March 26, 2024 (Freeport, FL) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Alaqua Animal Refuge as of March 1, 2024.

Accreditation signifies that Alaqua Animal Refuge meets GFAS’s 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 Alaqua Animal Refuge as an exceptional organization.

“We are very proud to announce the transition from Verified to Accredited status for Alaqua Animal Refuge,” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Program Director-Farmed Animals. “With GFAS Verification achieved in 2012, this organization became completely committed to achieve GFAS Accreditation and they have succeeded. Their facility has expanded from primarily a companion animal and equine rescue, to a complex, multifaceted rescue operation and sanctuary serving 500 or more animals of hundreds of unique species each year. Their services for animals and the community, in a region where so many animals are in need, is visionary and crucial. Their experienced staff and volunteer team is clearly devoted not only to best practices of sanctuary care and rehabilitation and release, but also governance and management best practices, ensuring a lasting and successful animal welfare organization.”

“Alaqua firmly believes in providing shelter, safety, and second chances to animals in need. Many of the animals we take care of have been victims of neglect and abuse, and we ensure they receive the care they deserve. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that all of our animals thrive and to educate the community about their needs. Being recognized by GFAS as an accredited sanctuary is an immense honor that proves our commitment to upholding the best practices in animal welfare and protection. ‘It’s an immense honor,’ stated Alaqua founder, Laurie Hood.” 

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 Alaqua Animal Refuge
Animal Refuge is a one-of-a-kind, no-kill facility founded in 2007. Located on 100-acres in Freeport, FL, the Refuge is located about 20 minutes north of the Emerald Coast. Their mission is to be a leading advocate for all animals, to maximize the healing power animals have on the human spirit, and to provide shelter, safety, and second chances to animals in need. Since its founding year, Alaqua has helped find homes for tens of thousands of animals, with over 100 adoptions completed each month. Alaqua prides itself on providing only the best quality living conditions for its animals. They have developed multiple programs that serve members of the community in all walks of life, from young children with developmental delays and special needs to senior citizens who can benefit from the companionship of one of our animals. To learn more about their work and future plans, visit www.alaqua.org

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March 7, 2024 (Stuart, FL) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to What If Farms Inc as of March 1, 2024.

What If Farms achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, What If Farms has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that What If Farms 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 What If Farms Inc. as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for What If Farms Inc..,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “Christine and her team at What If Farms provides quality care for horses and donkeys needing forever homes. These equines are given a chance to live in open spaces and receive incredible care for the remainder of their lives.”

Christine Hendler, Founder and Executive Director, What If Farms Inc. states, “To be accredited by the GFAS organization means a great deal to us here at What If Farms, as they hold all sanctuaries and rescues to the highest standards and are globally recognized as such. The process was educational and helpful on so many levels!”

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 What If Farms Inc.
What If Farms is a 501 (c)(3) sanctuary dedicated to horses and donkeys, where rescued equines find a consistent home.

Rather than “rescue, rehab and rehome”, What If Farms has a vision rooted in the commitment to not only rescue a body, but also to provide a new start in life, where each of the inhabitants of the sanctuary (and their caretakers with them) can find experiences that facilitate them to finding a way back to being themselves (a big issue for equids).

Our horses and donkeys are not used in any way for viewing, therapies or events and are shown utmost respect and privacy, while at the same time offering visitors to the sanctuary a glimpse of a new paradigm in human animal and non-human animal interaction.” To learn more about What if Farms Inc, go to: https://whatiffarms.org/.

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February 20, 2024 (Grass Valley, CA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Animal Place as of January 16, 2024.

Accreditation signifies that Animal Place 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 Animal Place as an exceptional organization.

“It is an honor to welcome Animal Place into the GFAS family,” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. As one of the original nonprofit farmed animal sanctuaries in the US, if not the world, Animal Place has established themselves as a powerhouse organization – not only when it comes to protecting the animals in their care, but also those who aren’t lucky enough to enter their doors. Through robust advocacy programs, Animal Place encourages the public, as well as other organizations, to leave animals off their plates. Their in-person and virtual Museum of Animal Farming is perhaps one of the most impactful experiences we have had at sanctuary. They showcase just how powerful sanctuaries can be as animal advocates and provide an excellent model for how other sanctuaries can step into this role as well. Their advocacy is rivaled only by their exceptional animal care at the sanctuary, where residents are provided the safety and love of sanctuary in extensive, beautiful spaces. The combination of their expertise and ethics set the bar high for the movement and embody true sanctuary.”

“Animal Place is one of the oldest and largest farmed animal sanctuaries in the United States,” says Marji Beach, Development Director at Animal Place. She continues, “Since 1989 we’ve provided a safe, permanent refuge for thousands of animals rescued from severe abuse, neglect, and cruelty at the hands of our food system. We also strive to be a focal point for advocacy and education, funding humane education and advocacy programs across the country. Providing our animal residents with the best lives possible is only the beginning of our mission. At our 600-acre Grass Valley property, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys, chickens, turkeys, guinea fowl, rabbits and tortoises are provided with top-notch care by our experienced, creative, and passionate animal care staff.

In a world with few legal protections for farmed animals, we firmly believe that those responsible for their care must be held to higher standards. As a sanctuary, we recognize that the rescue world must not be an exception to this. Simply removing animals from abusive situations is not enough. We are determined to provide species-appropriate as well as individualized care for every animal who enters our sanctuary grounds. Nutritious diets, individualized veterinary plans, enrichment items, behavioral care, and expansive, stimulating enclosures are just a few factors in creating this reality.

We owe it to animals to provide a joyful, enriching, fulfilling life. Animal Place is absolutely honored to have received accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, an institution dedicated to bettering the standards of the rescue, advocacy and sanctuary world. With the oversight of GFAS, we are fully committed to the lifelong process of bettering our relationship with the animals in our care.”

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 Animal Place
Animal Place has a mission to provide refuge for unwanted farmed animals, to further their welfare through education of the public, and to foster ethics of compassion and responsibility towards nonhuman animals by advocating a vegan lifestyle. The sprawling 600-acre facility, nestled in Grass Valley, CA, provides refuge to hundreds of abused and neglected farmed animals. While the primary focus is to provide sanctuary for animals, creating meaningful change means educating others about the plight of farmed animals. They welcome thousands of visitors to the sanctuary each year who want to learn more about farmed animal behavior, industry practices, and dietary change. Volunteer classes introduce folks to the more hands-on ways people can help. Internships are also available.

For more information, please visit: https://animalplace.org/

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February 15, 2024 (Chepachet, Rhode Island) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Rustic Acres Wildcat Rescue (RAWR) as of January 30, 2024.

Verification means that RAWR 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 RAWR as an exceptional organization.

“We are excited to announce the recent Verification of Rustic Acres Wildcat Rescue, a sanctuary providing a peaceful permanent home and compassionate care to a cohort of wild bobcats,” said Kristin Leppert, GFAS Program Director-Wildlife. “RAWR is the first GFAS certified wildcat sanctuary in Rhode Island and we are grateful for their life saving program of taking in wild cats that would otherwise be euthanized. Rustic Acres Wildcat Rescue’s steady commitment to this achievement makes all of us at GFAS proud, and means the animals in RAWR’s care will receive excellent, lifelong care.”

“RAWR had set its sights on GFAS certification from the beginning, as it is our aim to provide the best animal care and environment possible for our wild residents. We are grateful for this recognition and to be a part of a community of organizations that place the best interests of their animals as their top priority” said Karle Busse, Executive Director of Rustic Acres Wildcat Rescue.

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 Rustic Acres Wildcat Rescue
We rescue and provide forever care to un-releasable wild cats, and wild cats who were illegally owned or seized would otherwise be euthanized. We also have a number of domestic cats who were discarded or have various disabilities. We never buy, breed, or sell animals. We are a true, no-contact sanctuary whose mission is to educate the public that although these animals are beautiful, they are not pets. We don’t touch or pet them – we respect their wildness and let them live as true to their nature as possible. www.rawrsanctuary.org

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January 9, 2024 (Saratoga Springs, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, Inc (THS) as of January 3, 2024.

Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, THS has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga 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 THS as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, Inc..”, said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “Dr. Sisk and her team at THS provides quality care for horses coming off the racetrack. These horses are given the chance at a second career learning new skills, and then a new life as part of a therapy program.”

Dr. Erin Christopher Sisk, Executive Director, Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, Inc. states, “With profound gratitude, Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga humbly accepts the esteemed accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. In this alliance, we find strength and purpose, forging a sanctuary where the spirit of injured racehorses is rekindled through compassion and healing. United under the umbrella of global sanctuary standards, we affirm our commitment to providing a haven of love and rehabilitation, where the resilient hearts of these majestic beings find solace and renewal.”

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 Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, Inc.

Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing retired racehorses and transforming them into therapy animals for various mental health programs. By harnessing the unique qualities of these horses, THS aims to provide effective, equine-assisted therapy options that contribute to the healing and well-being of individuals in the Saratoga Springs community. For more info on THS, go to: https://thsaratoga.org/.

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February Star Sanctuary in Knoxville, Maryland is Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries 
“Rescue is not just a verb; it is a promise”

September 25, 2023 (Knoxville, MD) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to February Star Sanctuary as of September 15, 2022. Verification means that February Star Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue 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 February Star Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of February Star Sanctuary,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “This organization provides lifelong care and adoption services for equines whose owners are no longer able to care for them. By intervening early, equines experience a smooth transition to a new home or sanctuary, without the risk of ending up in dire situations. This beautiful farm provides the highest level of care for equines with large grassy pastures, safe fencing, and shelter from inclement weather. February Star values collaborating with other nearby rescues ensuring the special needs of each equine are always met.”

According to Phyllis Smith, Executive Director, February Star, “Receiving this certification is so important to February Star Sanctuary because we are always learning and improving! Our goal is to help as many animals as possible, in the most efficient way. It was extremely important to us to go through the certification process to make sure we were up to the best standards in the industry. We have been growing at an incredible rate but we want to grow in the right way.”

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 International Fund for Animal Welfare and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About February Star Sanctuary
The mission of February Star Sanctuary is to rescue, rehabilitate and provide a permanent refuge for cats and horses in need. We help the community with outreach programs to help children develop compassion for rescue animals at an early age. Teaching our children to respect and protect even the smallest among us is one of the most important life lessons we can pass on. Children and animals are the most vulnerable members of society, with abuse on the rise for both groups. Our goal with this sanctuary is to give the unwanted a home and to teach children compassion. Building a generation of animal advocates, one child at a time.

For more information, please visit February Star Sanctuary – Home

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September 18, 2023 (Erie, CO) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary as of August 18, 2023.

Accreditation signifies that Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary 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 Luvin Arms as an exceptional organization.

“Luvin Arms has been an integral part of the sanctuary movement for many years, and we are thrilled to announce their Accreditation“ said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. “She continues, “Luvin Arms demonstrates a deep commitment to their residents, with perhaps one of the most intentional and dedicated enrichment and training (yes clicker training!) programs for their farmed animal friends, in addition to their provision of world-class animal care. The sanctuary truly embodies the guiding principle of Ahimsa, taking their compassion a step further by helping those in their community and around the world connect with animals and embrace nonviolence toward all living beings. In a world where farmed animals are so often treated violently, the lucky ones embraced by Luvin Arms have found themselves in true sanctuary. We couldn’t be happier to welcome them into the GFAS family.”

At the heart of Luvin Arms is a mission deeply rooted in compassion and education. The sanctuary has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the well-being of rescued farmed animals. “Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary provides exceptional lifelong social, emotional, and cognitive care to rescued farmed animals,” says Managing Director, Kelly Nix. “We aim to be a beacon of change, advocating for those still trapped in unfavorable conditions by sharing the touching stories of our residents. Our goal is to inspire, educate, and empower others to embrace a lifestyle that is both compassionate and sustainable.”

Tucked away in a serene environment, Luvin Arms serves not only as a safe haven for farmed animals but also as a place of learning and connection for the community. Over the years, thousands have visited the sanctuary, leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the value of all living beings.

As the sanctuary continues to flourish, so do its ambitions. “We’re on the cusp of an exciting expansion of our educational program,” shares Kelly Nix. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between students and farmed animals, bringing Luvin Arms directly to schools. We believe in fostering connections with these farmed animals and instilling compassion toward all living beings.” Central to this vision is the principle of Ahimsa – a Sanskrit term meaning non-violence – promoting peace and respect for all life forms.

Achieving GFAS accreditation is a testament to the high standards and unwavering dedication of Luvin Arms. This accreditation is not just a badge of honor; it’s a recognition of the sanctuary’s commitment to providing the best possible environment for its residents, staff, and the wider community. For Luvin Arms, the GFAS accreditation amplifies its voice in advocating for the rights and welfare of farmed animal worldwide.

Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary remains steadfast in its mission, inviting everyone to be a part of this transformative journey towards a more compassionate world.

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 Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary
Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary is located in Erie, Colorado. We are a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit animal sanctuary for abused or neglected farmed animals. We provide exceptional lifelong social, emotional, and cognitive care to rescued farmed animals, and advocate for those who have not been rescued by sharing our residents’ stories to inspire, educate and empower others to embrace a more compassionate and sustainable lifestyle. We have created a sanctuary of inspiration and connection where people are empowered to create change that leads to more compassionate choices for themselves, for the planet, and justice for all beings.

To learn more visit luvinarms.org

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September 7, 2023 (Phoenix, AZ) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, has awarded Accredited status to Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center as of September 5, 2023.

Accreditation means that Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center has met GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards        which are confirmed by a site visit, and that it adheres to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Accredited status signifies that Lwiro Primates is a true sanctuary dedicated to the humane, responsible, and respectful care of its animals, and provides a clear and trusted means for the public and donors to recognize it as an exceptional organization.

Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center (LPRC) was founded in 2003 near Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It serves as a safe haven for orphaned primates (and other wildlife) rescued from the bushmeat and pet trade. LPRC’s core functions include rescuing and sheltering these animals, rehabilitating them for potential release into the wild, preserving genetic diversity in endangered species like chimpanzees, and educating and empowering the local community to support conservation efforts. LPRC plays a crucial role in protecting wildlife and promoting sustainable practices in the region.

“We are thrilled to have achieved GFAS accreditation,” said Itsaso Vélez del Burgo Guinea, LPRC’s Technical Director. “The accreditation process has strengthened us as a team and has helped us identify our weaknesses and improve them. This process encourages us to maintain high standards, ultimately benefiting the animals in our care. During the accreditation process, our team received guidance and recommendations from GFAS experts – special thanks to Jackie. This helped us improve our facilities, protocols, and overall operations based on the latest best practices in animal welfare.”

“We are proud to be accredited by GFAS. This accreditation signifies our unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards of animal care and welfare. It reflects the hard work and dedication we have put into ensuring the well-being of the animals under our care. We are honored to be recognized for our efforts and will continue to strive for excellence in animal welfare.”

“We are thrilled to announce the Accreditation of Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center,” said Jackie Bennett, GFAS Program Director, Africa and Asia. “It has been a pleasure to work with Itsaso and her team throughout this process. Their commitment to providing the best care possible to chimpanzees and other animals, many of whom are victims of poaching and wildlife trafficking, is beyond doubt. Lwiro Primates is also a demonstrated leader in the sanctuary community, always willing to share their experience and expertise with others.”

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 International Fund for Animal Welfare, World Federation for Animals and American Anti- Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries.

For more information, visit www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center

The Republic Democratic of Congo (DRC) is home to about 90% of the world’s eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii), but since the mid-1990s, these chimpanzees have experienced alarming population declines of up to 40% due to illegal hunting and habitat loss – the impact compounded by years of civil war, insecurity, and humanitarian crises.

Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center (LPRC) is first and foremost a primate sanctuary focused mainly on chimpanzees and monkeys – however it does also cater to other victims of wildlife crime (currently including parrots and tortoises). It was officially founded in 2003 by two Congolese institutions, the Centre de Recherches en Sciences Naturelles (CRSN) and the Institute Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN), to help alleviate the animal victims of civil war that resulted in both humanitarian and wildlife atrocities; and specifically, to create a permanent solution to the increasing number of orphaned apes confiscated around Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP). Strategically situated only 4 km away from KBNP, defined by the IUCN as the world’s 3rd most important site for the conservation of the Eastern Chimpanzee, makes Lwiro the ideal location for chimpanzee rehabilitation and local conservation education and outreach.

LPRC recognizes the importance of engaging with the local community. Conducting education and sensitization programs to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and the need to protect local wildlife. By empowering the community with knowledge and skills, LPRC helps reduce the pressure on wild habitats by promoting sustainable practices and discouraging illegal activities like poaching.​

For more information, visit www.lwiroprimates.org.

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