Category: Latest News

  • Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary of Poughquag, New York is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary of Poughquag, New York is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    January 17, 2019 (Poughquag, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary as of December 21, 2018.

    Verification means that Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true farm animal 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 Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

    “We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine and Farm Animals. “Safe Haven endeavors to provide the highest level of individualized care for its’ animal residents, and marries this with admirable animal advocacy and vegan outreach programs. In this manner, the work of Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary encompasses so much more than humane care for animals-in-need; the organization is extending lessons of compassion and respect for all living beings.”

    “Safe Haven is honored to have been Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries for the excellent care and affection given to each of our rescued animals, and we are proud to have met their rigorous standards for care,” said Ellen Crain, Executive Director of Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary. “It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and love shown day in and day out by our staff, volunteers and supporters.” 

    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 Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary

    At Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary, farmed animals rescued from abuse and slaughter are restored to health and given a safe and loving forever home. Over 100 rescued animals live a life of comfort and peace at our sanctuary and are brave ambassadors for farmed animals everywhere. We encourage visitors to meet our residents. Our goal is to raise awareness about the plight of animals raised for food and the benefits of a vegan diet for the animals, human health, and the environment. We are dedicated to spreading compassion and respect for all living beings.

    Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary was founded in 2008 by Ellen and Bill Crain. Ellen created the first national environmental health fellowship program for pediatricians, and Bill has published a popular book, The Emotional Lives of Children and Animals: Insights from a Farm Sanctuary. They live at Safe Haven with their rescued dog Huckleberry Finn and 4 rescued cats, Hurricane, Theodore, Salt, and Bootsie.  For more information, visit https://safehavenfarmsanctuary.org/ .

  • Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary of Louisa, Virginia is Accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary of Louisa, Virginia is Accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    January 8, 2019 (Louisa, VA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary as of December 18, 2018.

    Accreditation signifies that Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary 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 the transition from Verified to Accredited status of Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The advancements made toward creating greater organizational sustainability and implementing capacity building initiatives since the time of the group’s original Verification with GFAS are outstanding.  Much work went into the completion of improvements to the sanctuary’s facility; in addition, comprehensive business, governance, and financial practices, such as long-term strategic plans, have been put into place, ensuring the highest standards and practices of responsible sanctuary care for equines-in-need well into the future.”

    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 Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary
    Located on 21 acres of grassy pastures, fields, and wooded horse trails in Louisa County, VA, Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary was incorporated as a 501c3 in 2016 to support the right of all equines to live a quality life.  The mission of Serenity Farm is to prevent equine neglect, abuse, and abandonment where we can and rehabilitate and find loving, forever homes for neglected or abused equines; to educate the public on the beauty and value of rescued horses; to give purpose to the lives of neglected or abused equines through interaction with humans, including emotionally or physically challenged individuals; to provide equine interaction to individuals with emotionally or physically challenging needs; to welcome all volunteers including adults and school-age with disabilities; to provide horsemanship instruction for our volunteers; to coordinate with agencies in the Commonwealth of Virginia by providing current and future equine owners and other relevant groups with information and resources.  For more information, visit www.serenityfarmequinesanctuary.org  or call 540-842-1756.

    About the ASPCA®
    Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/aspca.

    Download Press Release here.

  • Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is Accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    January 4, 2019, (Washington DC) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Black Pine Animal Sanctuary as of January 2, 2019.

    Achieving GFAS Accreditation means that Black Pine Animal Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true sanctuary and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Accreditation status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards and also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The accreditation status provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors and grantors to recognize Black Pine as an exceptional sanctuary.

    Black Pine Animal Sanctuary, located near Fort Wayne, Indiana, was founded as a private facility in the late 1980’s and transitioned to a non-profit rescue organization in 2000. The relocation to a new, undeveloped 18-acre site in 2006 was followed by a decade of growth and expansion. Today, the sanctuary provides refuge to 90 displaced, captive-raised wildcats, wild canines, perching birds, non-human primates, non-venomous reptiles, and other exotic mammals “for the rest of their lives”. Over 250 animals have been provided refuge to date. Black Pine is funded entirely by donations and in-kind gifts, educational programs, special events, and a gift shop, the Wolf Den Gifts & Things, located on site. Fundraising is currently underway to complete upgrades to existing vacant habitats in preparation of providing refuge to more large mammals, and to construct a new desert tortoise habitat in 2019 as part of a project to improve accommodations for reptiles.

    “GFAS Accreditation has been a top strategic and personal goal that I and our team have embraced,” said Lori Gagen, executive director of Black Pine. “There is no greater gift we can give to the animals who count on us, or to those who invest in their care and welfare, than to strive to be the best we can possibly be – now and long-term. We greatly appreciate the oversight, support, and high expectations GFAS presents us and how they can serve as a guideline for the public as they strive to make responsible choices.”

    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 Black Pine Animal Sanctuary

    Incorporated as Professional Animal Retirement Center (PARC) Inc., Black Pine Animal Sanctuary (BPAS) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides refuge to displaced, captive-raised exotic animals for the rest of their lives and educates people about responsible animal care and conservation. In addition to providing a high quality of responsible care to animals in need, Black Pine’s on-site educational programs, community outreach, and advocacy initiatives are aimed at providing the public with the resources and information necessary to choose responsibly and to avoid situations that exploit animals, or place animals or public safety at risk. The sanctuary is led by a volunteer board of directors and operated by a small paid staff supported by volunteer and internship program participants who contribute over 15,000 hours in service to the mission annually. Black Pine is a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity and has earned a Gold Seal of Transparency from Guidestar.org. For more information, visit www.bpsanctuary.org.

    Download press release here.

  • Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc. of South Kortright, New York is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc. of South Kortright, New York is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    October 24, 2018 (South Kortright, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc. as of October 24, 2018.

    Verification means that Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc. 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 Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc. as an exceptional organization.

    “We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc.,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Located on beautiful, enriching property, Rosemary Farm provides high quality lifetime sanctuary care to equines-in-need, in addition to facilitating equine adoptions.  The organization has also put solid business and fundraising practices in place, and is poised for tremendous growth, which will benefit an increased number of equines.”

    “Rosemary Farm Sanctuary grew out of a need in our area for such a place, and what began as a heartfelt response to allow horses to just ‘be’, has grown into one of the largest equine sanctuaries in NYS,” said Dawn Robyn, Executive Director and Founder of Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc. “Along the way, we have been guided by many experienced rescuers who have helped us evolve our mission and it’s execution. Our aim all along has been to represent quality care, share that with potential adopters and other horse owners, and to be proud of the full lives of our equines. Achieving GFAS Verification has been a goal we have aspired to for years, and are very proud to be included in the ranks of such other sanctuaries. We are humbled and excited for our future, as we all continue to evolve and learn and improve our homes for the horses who need us, and to share it with others.”

    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 Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, Inc.
    At Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, our mission is to rescue horses in need, and protect them for life.  We save equines from slaughter, neglect, and abuse. Most have been passed from owner to owner, never knowing a herd or consistency.  When they arrive here, they are home.  We make care decisions based on what is best for each horse and the sanctuary family.  Our horses live in dynamic natural environments, in herd groups, creating vital bonds that are honored and protected.  In addition, we educate horse owners and the general public about the wretched conditions many horses suffer, and how they can improve both the physical and emotional guardianship of horses.

    Rosemary Farm is ‘Where horses get to be horses’.  For more information, visit http://rosemaryfarm.org/ .


    About the ASPCA®

    Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/aspca.

    Download press release here.

  • Save a Forgotten Equine of Redmond, Washington is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Save a Forgotten Equine of Redmond, Washington is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    October 12, 2018 (Redmond, WA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Save a Forgotten Equine as of October 9, 2018.

    Verification means that Save a Forgotten Equine 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 Save a Forgotten Equine as an exceptional organization.

    “We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Save a Forgotten Equine,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Save a Forgotten Equine provides much needed rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, and rehoming services for horses through established partnerships with law enforcement agencies and education and outreach opportunities for local owners. Their programs are supported by an exceptionally knowledgeable group of personnel and volunteers, and solidified by a strong business structure, ensuring a sustainable future for the organization and the animals they care for.”

    “SAFE has used many of the GFAS standards to establish our best practices for caring for our horses and keeping our volunteers safe,” said Bonnie Hammond, Executive Director of Save a Forgotten Equine. “It’s such an honor to be Verified by GFAS, and to let the world know that we’re worked extremely hard to build an organization that rescues responsibly and does things 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 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 Save a Forgotten Equine
    Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE) is devoted to the rescue and rehabilitation of horses facing abuse, neglect, or starvation. Once recovered, SAFE provides these horses with training, then finds adoptive homes through a rigorous screening process, which includes an application, reference checks, and site visits. After adoption, annual follow-up visits are conducted to ensure the animal’s continued well-being and SAFE will take a horse back if its adopter can’t continue to care for it. SAFE supports Animal Control agencies in several Washington counties and provides assistance to horse owners struggling to care for their animals in the current economy.  For more information, visit https://www.safehorses.org/ .


    About the ASPCA®

    Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/aspca.

    Download press release here.

  • Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. of Boyds, Maryland is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. of Boyds, Maryland is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    October 3, 2018 (Boyds, MD) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. as of October 3, 2018.

    Verification means that Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. 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 Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. as an exceptional organization.

    “We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc.,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “GAIT, Inc. has brought together an experienced collaboration of personnel, equine foster home providers, and industry partners to provide rehabilitation, retraining, and rehoming services to equines-in-need. Because of the group’s great knowledge of the needs of gaited horses, they are able to extend these services and network throughout the equine rescue community on behalf of the horses.”

    “GAIT, Inc. is very excited to be welcomed into the GFAS network.,” said Denise Parsons, Executive Director of Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. “There are many rescues in this country, but only a select few meet the stringent requirements to become members of GFAS.  We are thrilled that GAIT, Inc. is among those rescues.  We consider GFAS to be the Gold Standard of accreditation for organizations involved in animal rescue.  We would like to thank GFAS for the hard work they do to help the public be assured that the member organizations they are supporting have the animals’ best interest and the public’s safety at heart.”

    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 Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc.
    Gaited Advocate Intervention Team, Inc. (also known as GAIT, Inc.) has been formed to meet an ever-growing demand for the gaited horse breeds and other equines who have become in danger of being shipped to slaughter, are in the hands of neglectful owners or owners that are no longer able to keep their horses. GAIT, Inc. will serve as both a direct rescue for horses as well as a resource for educating others on the care and training of the gaited breeds and horses in general. In addition, we will educate the public about the issues of slaughter and auction pipelines as well as how the gaited horse can be used successfully as pleasure and versatility mounts via public exhibitions, fairs, expos and other similar venues. GAIT, Inc. will act as consultants doing evaluations, video and/or as networking facilitators for private owners as well as other rescues and non-profits that may not have experience with the gaited breeds, but who have taken gaited breeds into their rescue programs.  For more information, visit https://www.gaitrrr.org/index.html .

    About the ASPCA®
    Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/aspca.

    Download Press Release here.

  • Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary of Conroe, Texas, is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary of Conroe, Texas, is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary as of July 17, 2018.

    Verification means that Henry’s Home Horse and Human 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 Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

    “We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Henry’s Home,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The perseverance, determination, and hard work put forth by the sanctuary’s Board, volunteers, and community members in establishing this facility and its programs according to industry best-practices has been astounding.  This organization has truly created a haven wherein both animals and humans can heal.”

    “Henry’s Home has worked hard for the last few years to build out the property we were donated, grow in our knowledge about how to care for our beloved four-footed family members, network within our community to spread the word of our work, and complete the requirements for a healthy and growing non-profit,” said Donna Stedman, Founder and Executive Director.  “Adding Verification from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries has been one of our goals for the past year and we are thrilled to finally achieve this important recognition.  We are so grateful for the guidance and support GFAS is giving us.  We now consider them one of our valued mentors as we take it to the next step of Accreditation over the next year.”

    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 Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary
    Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary takes in rescued and donated horses, and other farm animals, and gives them a forever home and meaningful work in our Horses & Heroes Equine Program which offers EAGALA

    psychotherapy for our local veterans and first responders and their families, always at no cost to them.  This 501c3 non-profit is run entirely by volunteers and is supported primarily by the local community through donations from other non-profits, corporations, individuals and grants.  For more information, visit http://henryshomehorsesanctuary.org/ .

    About the ASPCA®
    Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/aspca.

    Download press release here.

  • Recipients of the 10th Annual 2018 Carole Noon Awards for Sanctuary Excellence Announced

    July 2, 2018 – (Washington, DC) The Board of Directors of the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) today announced the recipients of the 2018 Carole Noon Awards for Sanctuary Excellence: Dr. Karmele Sanchez, Program Director of Yayasan International Animal Rescue in Indonesia and Patti Ragan, Founder, Center for Great Apes in Florida, USA. GFAS is the global leader in accreditation of animal sanctuaries and rescue centers and is popularly considered the “gold standard” when assessing operational excellence and humane care at facilities across the globe.

    “This year’s Noon awardees are both extraordinary leaders, doing remarkable work, with indefatigable determination, who have had significant achievements in their careers,” noted Allan Kornberg, Executive Director of GFAS. “GFAS prides itself on its global reach and the wide variety of species for which our member sanctuaries provide humane refuge, and the wild animal facilities honored this year are outstanding examples of compassionate care—Dr. Noon would certainly be proud.”

    Sue Leary, GFAS Board Member, presenting Award to Patti Ragan

    At the Center for Great Apes, the only accredited sanctuary for orangutans in North America, apes who were former “pets” and performing animals are cared for with compassion and provided for their specialized needs.  As the plight of the wild orangutan becomes more desperate due to poaching and deforestation in Borneo, individual animals suffer injury and death in alarming numbers — the Yayasan International Animal Rescue Indonesia not only works to protect orangutans, but also rescue, rehabilitate and release slow lorises, macaques and other imperiled species.

    Ms.  Ragan said of the Noon Award honor, “So much has happened in the past 9 years that Carole would have celebrated (chimpanzees finally being classified as Endangered Species in captivity… chimps finally coming out of invasive research… exploitation of great apes ending in entertainment venues & the exotic pet trade in North America….and new sanctuaries opening to care for these primates).  I am grateful for GFAS’s recognition of our work here at the Center for Great Apes.” Dr. Sanchez added, “It’s a great honour and an authentic privilege to receive this award. This award is for us a new inspiration to continue working on protecting animals in need. “This award is dedicated to the whole team of IAR in Indonesia, a very dedicated team who has made it possible for us to win this award. It’s only thanks to this team that IAR can be so proud to get this international recognition.”

    Jackie Bennett, GFAS Program Director, Africa and Asia, presenting Award to Karmele Sachez

    The Carole Noon Awards are named after the late Dr. Carole Noon, founder of Save the Chimps in Florida, USA, where she and her team rescued and cared for hundreds of chimpanzees rescued and retired from biomedical research, including those used in government testing protocols.

    Editor’s Notes:

    GFAS is a global leader in accreditation programs for animal sanctuaries, assessing facilities against a robust set of operational and animal care standards, including species-specific standards for elephants, great apes, big cats, horses, farm animals, and others.

    Dr. Karmele Sanchez, Program Director, Yayasan International Animal Rescue Indonesia, is a veterinarian and oversees YIARI’s orangutan center on Borneo and the Primate Rehabilitation Center in Ciapus near Bogor in West Java. Both are GFAS accredited. The Bogor facility was built with the objective of protecting species that were not often considered by other conservation organizations; it is the world’s largest rescue center for slow lorises and the biggest rescue and rehabilitation center for long- and pig-tailed macaques on Java. YIARI established the first systematic reintroduction project for Indonesian slow lorises. Its Center for Rescue and Conservation of Orangutans operates near Ketapang, West Kalimantan, one of the most heavily deforested areas of Borneo. YIARI established the first ever Human-Orangutan Conflict Response Team (HOCRT) in Kalimantan. The team is ready at all times to respond to HOC situations in West Kalimantan reported by local people, through mitigation of conflict, translocation or rescue of orangutans, and is responsible for investigating, assessing, enumerating, and mitigating any reported instances of HOC. More information at http://www.internationalanimalrescue.or.id/

    Patti Ragan, the Founder of the Center for Great Apes, is dedicated to the health and welfare of chimpanzees and orangutans who unwillingly served the entertainment and biomedical research industries. Patti and her staff ensure that the apes get excellent medical care and lots of enrichment. The enclosures are unique and are all connected through the forested sanctuary with over a mile and a half of aerial trailways that the apes can roam through. With the unique system of trailways, the apes have more opportunities for making choices on their environment.    Patti, her board, and volunteers work hard to ensure that the necessary funding is in place to care for the apes.  One of the many things that makes the Center for Great Apes special is Patti and her staff’s relationship and commitment to Knuckles. Knuckles is a chimpanzee with cerebral palsy, needing around the clock special care. The Center is currently focused on securing funding so that new habitats can be built to help give sanctuary to more orangutans and chimpanzees in need of care. More information at http://www.centerforgreatapes.org

    Download press release here.

  • Pasado’s Safe Haven of Monroe, Washington is Accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    Pasado’s Safe Haven of Monroe, Washington is Accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    May 8, 2018 (Monroe, WA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Pasado’s Safe Haven as of May 7, 2018.

    Accreditation signifies that Pasado’s Safe Haven 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 proud to announce the Accreditation of Pasado’s Safe Haven,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director. “The staff and volunteers pay a great deal of attention to the individualized care of the animals residing at the sanctuary.  This, coupled with the sanctuary’s modern and innovative physical facilities, and ideal business practices, positions Pasado’s Safe Haven as a stand-out model for other animal rescue and sanctuary groups to aspire to.”

    “We are honored to be the first farm sanctuary facility in the Pacific Northwest to be receiving Accreditation from GFAS,” said Laura Henderson, Executive Director of Pasado’s Safe Haven. “We have a dedicated and uniquely trained team of staff and volunteers that believe in providing the highest level of care for the farm animals that are rescued from cruelty and neglect and come through our sanctuary gates to heal.”

    “We give careful consideration to the individual needs of each animal that spends time at our sanctuary, and continually look for ways to exceed all expectations, from our facilities to medical care to spreading compassion,” said Stephanie Perciful, Sanctuary Director of Pasado’s Safe Haven. “We want to be a resource and provide inspiration to other rescue organizations so that more animals can be saved.”

    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 Pasado’s Safe Haven
    Pasado’s Safe Haven has a uniquely comprehensive approach to ending animal cruelty. In addition to investigating animal cruelty crimes and providing sanctuary and rehabilitation to animals who have suffered from abuse and neglect, we also advocate for better laws to protect animals and work to educate the public about how they can help end animal cruelty. For more information, visit http://www.pasadosafehaven.org/ or call 360-793-9393.

    Download press release here.

  • ReRun, Inc. of East Greenbush, New York is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    ReRun, Inc. of East Greenbush, New York is Verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

    April 5, 2018, (East Greenbush, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to ReRun, Inc. as of April 5, 2018.

    Verification means that ReRun, Inc. 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 ReRun, Inc. as an exceptional organization.

    “We are proud to announce the recent Verification of ReRun, Inc.,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “ReRun is a pioneer in the movement to create an ever-increasing awareness of what Thoroughbred horses can do once their racing days are over. Due to the exemplary rehabilitation, retraining and rehoming services offered by ReRun, hundreds of ex-racehorses have, and will continue to, find second careers.”

    “ReRun, Inc., one of the oldest Thoroughbred adoption programs in the country and the largest in NY is thrilled to become Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. A goal we as an organization have been seeking to attain, this week’s announcement further lends credibility in addition to increasing donor and adopter confidence in the program.,” said Lisa Molloy, Executive Director of ReRun, Inc.

    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 ReRun, Inc.
    ReRun Inc. is a renowned, pioneering organization specializing in Thoroughbred rescue and adoption and one of the oldest in the nation, having been founded in 1996. Its mission ever since has been to retrain, reschool, and rehabilitate ex-racehorses and to find them loving homes and second careers. The focus has been largely on horses coming directly off the track, primarily those retiring from New York tracks, annually assisting over 100 horses.  ReRun operates the premier facility in the state, a state-of-the-art facility with extensive rehab capabilities – taking in and adopting out more horses in New York than any other charity. Ideally located in the Capital Region, ReRun has a capacity for 45 horses. It partners with New York Thoroughbred Development Fund, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s’ Association, and the New York Thoroughbred Breeders. For more information, visit https://www.rerunottb.com/ .

    About the ASPCA®
    Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/aspca.

    Download press release here.