Category: Latest News

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.

February 25, 2020 (Lindstrom, MN)) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Farmaste Animal Sanctuary as of February 24, 2020.

Verification means that Farmaste 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 Farmaste Animal Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Farmaste Animal Sanctuary, an organization dedicated to providing a permanent home for farmed animals,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director. “Derived from the word “namaste”, Farmaste Animal Sanctuary is a place of peacefulness and thankfulness. Goats, pigs, sheep and cattle have found their forever home on this beautiful farm. True to their mission, public education is designed to change the perception of people regarding these animals and encourage a vegan lifestyle.”

“Becoming a GFAS verified sanctuary was important to us because we unfortunately have first-hand experience with the poor animal care that can occur at farm sanctuaries,” explained Shannon Kehle-Forbes, Vice President of Farmaste Animal Sanctuary Board of Directors. “One of our residents, Ellie, was rescued from a sanctuary that was neglecting her basic needs. Verification gives our supporters confidence that their donations are being used responsibly and that our residents’ health and well-being are always our highest priority. The transparency and accountability that comes with verification also pushes Farmaste to continue to strive for the highest standards in our animal care and business practices as we continue to grow. We are so excited and proud to have been granted Verified status.”

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 Farmaste Animal Sanctuary
Farmaste is a nonprofit 501c3 organization that rescues farmed animals from cruelty situations. We provide them with vet care, and a loving home for life. At Farmaste Animal Sanctuary our mission is to change the lives of farmed animals by removing them from abusive situations, changing the perception the public has about them, and encouraging compassionate vegan living. For more information, visit http://www.farmaste.org.

Download press release here.

February 10, 2020 (Worcestershire, UK) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Goodheart Animal Sanctuaries (The Nickless Farm) as of February 6,2020.

Verification means that Goodheart Animal Sanctuaries 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 Goodheart Animal Sanctuaries as an exceptional organization.

“We are very proud to announce the recent Verification of Goodheart Farm Animal Sanctuary at The Nickless Farm,” said Daryl Tropea Ph.D., GFAS Program Director. “They are the first farmed animal sanctuary to be certified by GFAS in Europe. Founders, David Walker and Dwynwen Jones established Goodheart Farm Animal Sanctuary in 2017 on 92 beautiful acres to provide a lifelong home to more than 300 animals including sheep, pigs, cows, goats and birds. Under the exceptional leadership of Alison Hood, Goodheart’s team of professionals provides the highest quality of animal care to their residents as well engaging in several advocacy campaigns including; exposing cruelty and neglect in animal farming, promoting better legislation, and educating the public regarding the nature of these animals as sentient beings.”

“Goodheart Farm Animal Sanctuary is thrilled to be the first farm animal sanctuary in Europe to receive GFAS verification,” said Alison Hood, Project Director of Goodheart Animal Sanctuaries. “Farm animals are the underdogs of the animal world; labelled differently and often treated appallingly. There are a tiny few who escape their fate and become ambassadors for their kind at Farm Sanctuaries.   The GFAS programme is so important to these farm animals; it not only helps ensure excellent welfare and strong policies; it also reflects that these wonderful, sentient animals deserve an excellent standard of care.  We hope that GHAS and GFAS’s commitment to farm animal welfare will help trigger a more compassionate relationship with farm animals for more people.”

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 Goodheart Farm Animal Sanctuary (The Nickless Farm)
Goodheart Animal Sanctuaries (GHAS) aims to create safe sanctuaries for rescued, abused and neglected animals and uses an evidence-based approach to educate the public about animal welfare and global sustainability. GHAS celebrates and promotes all animals as individual, sentient beings. We believe in establishing robust partnerships in the local community, regionally, and across the nation to ensure our message is spread far and wide. By working together, and celebrating every achievable step towards positive change, we can reduce the negative impact that animal agriculture has on animals, humans and our planet. For more information please visit, https://www.goodheartanimalsanctuaries.com.

Download Verification Press Release here.

January 29, 2020 (Winchester, NH) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Draft Gratitude as of January 16, 2020.

Verification means that Draft Gratitude 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 Draft Gratitude as an exceptional organization.

“We are excited to announce the recent Verification of Draft Gratitude,” said Daryl Tropea Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Draft Gratitude provides quality health care and rehabilitation to a special population of aged working horses. Draft horses are still used for work in farming communities throughout many of the north eastern states.  Their large size can be challenging for many rescues to accommodate, this is one of the reasons why Draft Gratitude will only take in drafts.  Once rehabilitated, these draft horses make wonderful companions for people interested in intelligent, levelheaded horses capable of light riding or pleasure driving.”

“The GFAS Verification is important to us for two specific reasons.  The first reason is because our donors trust the work that our organization is doing.  We don’t take that trust lightly. This verification shows our commitment to transparency.  The second reason this was important to us is because it was a phenomenal exercise in thinking about and planning for Draft Gratitude’s future. I am grateful and honored that Draft Gratitude earned this verification.  This is a commitment to a very special group of horses, namely aged working horses.  They have earned the right to a safe retirement and we intend to provide just that for as many as we can,” said Rebecca Roy, Draft Gratitude Executive Director.

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 Draft Gratitude
Draft Gratitude, established in 2014, is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to saving the lives of unwanted draft horses.  Their primary focus is on aged working horses. Once rescued, the draft horses are rehabilitated and will either be available for adoption or stay in sanctuary safely for the rest of their days.

Draft Gratitude hosts an open barn visiting day the first Saturday of each month from 10am-12pm.  Other visiting times are by appointment only.  Learn more about Draft Gratitude, its mission, and opportunities to help unwanted draft horses at www.draftgratitude.com.

Download press release here.

January 28, 2020 (Westfield, WI) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Primates Incorporated as of January 22, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that Primates Incorporated 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.

“We are proud to announce the transition from Verified to Accredited status of Primates Incorporated,” said Kristin Leppert, Wildlife Program Director. “This group has put in a lot of work to provide monkeys in need with a true sanctuary home. Their focus on developing physical and financial plans for long-term sustainability means that more monkeys in need of sanctuary will one day be able to reside peacefully at Primates Incorporated with loving companions.” “We are honored to be accredited by GFAS and we look forward to helping more monkeys retire to our sanctuary in an enriching and dignified manner,” said Amy Kerwin, Executive Director of Primates Incorporated. “Thank you to GFAS for setting excellent animal welfare standards for sanctuaries.”

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 Primates Incorporated
Amy Kerwin founded Primates Incorporated in 2004 after working in a laboratory for five years with 97 rhesus monkeys at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Although her laboratory did not believe in primate retirement, other laboratories were actively retiring monkeys from throughout the United States. Since she heard of existing sanctuaries rejecting the laboratories due to capacity and funding issues, Kerwin knew the need existed to help them. She focused on developing a sanctuary in Wisconsin so that she could work with other laboratories to retire their monkeys, helping set precedent for local laboratories to do the same thing. Located in Westfield, Wisconsin, the sanctuary currently cares for 5 rhesus macaques retired from research and two monkeys from the pet trade: a 17-yr-old vervet monkey and a 1-yr-old green monkey who are now living peacefully together in the same enclosure. Primates Incorporated is a federally registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more information, visit primatesinc.com.

Download press release here.