Category: Latest News

October 1, 2020 (Newberg, OR) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Wildwood Farm Sanctuary as of September 25, 2020.

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

“We are proud to announce the Accreditation of Wildwood Farm Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D. GFAS Program Director. “Shauna and her team ensure the highest level of humane and responsible care for each animal as an individual, regardless of their special needs. This beautiful farm provides a safe and healing environment for these animals to live out their lives. This sanctuary is also devoted to educating the public regarding the welfare issues affecting farmed animals and the need for greater empathy and compassion. This Is the mark of an organization that genuinely wants to make a difference in the lives of animals in their community.”

“Animals come here seeking refuge from a former life of abuse, neglect, or deprivation,” said Shauna Sherick, LVT, Founder and President of Wildwood Farm Sanctuary. Offering them lifelong sanctuary is both a privilege and tremendous responsibility. Accreditation requires a serious commitment on the part of the sanctuary and assures donors, volunteers, and the public that we are providing a high standard of care that allows these animals to heal, recover, and thrive.”

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 Wildwood Farm Sanctuary
Located on 98 acres in Newberg Oregon, Wildwood Farm Sanctuary is a haven for farm animals and wildlife alike. We provide lifelong refuge and rehabilitation for abused and abandoned farm animals while lovingly protecting the property’s native plants, wetlands, woodlands, and wild animals. Through our mission and the lives of our beloved residents in this special place, we aspire to inspire! Our greatest hope is to help open eyes and reshape the way humans view and treat farm animals by considering a compassionate and cruelty-free way of living .For more information, please visit https://wildwoodfarmsanctuary.org/.

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September 30, 2020 (Broad Run, VA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Nalani Horse Rescue as of September 25, 2020.

Verification means that Nalani Horse Rescue 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 Nalani Horse Rescue as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Nalani Horse Rescue,” said Daryl Tropea Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Nalani is Hawaiian for “the Heavens” and that is what this organization is for horses that end up in difficult situations. This team of volunteers is dedicated to helping one horse at time, ensuring that each horse gets all that is needed to find their final safe place. Each horse receives a thorough evaluation with a rehabilitation and training program individually designed. These volunteers and Board members are involved in a hands-on way, ensuring both responsible and humane equine care and organizational growth and sustainability.”

“As our rescue is growing, it was important to me that we have a strong foundation and implement best practices to provide the highest standard of care to our horses,” said Cherry Tapley, President of Nalani Horse Rescue. “Going through the process of certification from GFAS helped us learn about areas where we could improve our processes. Being recognized by GFAS is an honor and we look forward to learning from other rescues and sanctuaries who provide the same level of care that is so important to us.“
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 Nalani Horse Rescue
Nalani Horse Rescue is a non-profit 501c3 organization dedicated to horse rescue and rehabilitation. Our mission is to provide horses in need of rescue with care, rehabilitation and training with the goal of finding them safe, forever homes. At Nalani, we are committed to giving these horses an opportunity to meet their potential in a loving, healthy and trusting environment. Nalani is located at Alanwood Farm, in Broad Run, VA. It is a peaceful haven for horses who have been through trauma. For more information, visit www.nalanihr.org.

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September 16, 2020 (Las Cruces, NM) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary as of September 15, 2020.

Verification means that Dharmahorse Equine 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 Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The Founders and Board Members of Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary have created a safe and nurturing environment for equines needing a soft landing that is a blend of traditional science, herbology, and years of horse care experience.  A paddock-grazing system and a unique shelter design contribute to ensuring the needs for horses are met as nature intended.”

“Verification with the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries means the world to us at Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary,” said Katharine Chrisley Schreiber, Executive Director of Dharmahorse. “The horses here need us on so many levels and most of them are in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s. They have special needs and require very diligent care, which we love providing because these cherished spirits have helped humans in so many ways. We owe a debt to them and can pay them back by taking proper care of them; giving them comfort and compassion; being gentle in all of our interactions and holding ourselves to the highest standard of horse husbandry. This recognition of our efforts and principles inspires us to continue developing programs and educational outreach, to help the Dharma Horses specifically and all horses in general.”

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 Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary
Our mission is to provide a safe and loving environment in which horses and humans can meet, interact, strive, and learn from each other. We support a process of organic, natural horsemanship pertaining to the care of our equine companions as well as a process of awakening within ourselves in order to live more mindful, compassionate and joyful lives. Our teachings are rooted in love, compassion, tolerance and understanding. For more information, please visit, http://www.dharmahorse.org/.

Download Verification press release.

August 25, 2020 (Tijeras, NM) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to New Mexico Farm Sanctuary as of August 21, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that New Mexico Farm Sanctuary meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed farm animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects.

“We are proud to announce the Accreditation of New Mexico Farm Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D. GFAS Program Director. “Julie and her team were determined from the beginning to launch this new sanctuary based on best practices, and they certainly have. Although their policies and procedures are still evolving, their dedication to being a sanctuary of excellence in both animal care, management and governance is the mark of an organization that will make a difference for animals in New Mexico. We look forward to their successes as a model sanctuary in the future.”

“The work that is done at the GFAS is critical to not only the reputation of animal sanctuaries all over the world but to the care of the animals housed within those sanctuaries,” said Julie Cerros, Executive Director of New Mexico Farm Sanctuary. “Oversight of all areas of sanctuaries is necessary and must be transparent. The accreditation from the GFAS ensures that this is the case and that the sanctuaries are not only upholding the highest standards for the animals within their care but are financially stable and able to provide for those animals throughout their lifetime. With little regulation throughout the industry, GFAS accreditation should be sought out and achieved by all true 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 New Mexico Farm Sanctuary
New Mexico Farm Sanctuary is a farm animal sanctuary and protection organization that promotes compassionate vegan living through education, conservation, and advocacy. We exist to show how everyday choices make a difference to both sentient beings and the planet. For more information, please visit, http://www.nmfarmsanctuary.org/.

Download press release here.

August 17, 2020 (Vero Beach, FL) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Equine Welfare Network as of August 12, 2020.

Verification means that Equine Welfare Network 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 Equine Welfare Network as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Equine Welfare Network,” said Daryl Tropea, PH.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Although a relatively new organization, Equine Welfare Network looked to GFAS standards for guidance from the beginning so they could truly develop a model equine rescue and sanctuary organization of excellence. Also, this organization offers many resources to horse owners in their community including education on care and nutrition. They are committed to collaborating with equine organization throughout the state. This dedication and professionalism are the mark of an organization that genuinely wants to make a difference in lives of equines in Florida.”

Cami Kanner, Equine Welfare Network Inc. Founder and Executive Director, said it is of utmost importance to establish a uniform standard of care at sanctuaries, rescue centers, and rehabilitation centers throughout the world. “We are both honored and excited to be a part of the GFAS family. Their support and commitment helped our organization improve our quality of care, management, and governance on all levels. We are proud to operate our organization in accordance with the GFAS Standards of Excellence,” Kanner said.

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 Equine Welfare Network.
Equine Welfare Network Inc. is a group of professionals, equine organizations and volunteers working together to promote and ensure a standard of care for horses throughout our communities. Our primary focus is advocacy, awareness and education. We are dedicated to equine welfare. Our mission is to develop a network of resources throughout our communities to assist struggling owners and their horses. We also strive to compliment the efforts of our local law enforcement agencies and animal rescue groups. By uniting our efforts, we hope to raise awareness and address challenges in our equine communities. For more information, please visit, https://equinewelfarenetwork.org.

Download press release here.

August 3, 2020 (Spokane, WA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary as of July 27, 2020.

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

“We are excited to announce the recent Verification of River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine and Farm Animals. “Co-founders Kit and Peter Jagoda are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care for their 140 resident animals which include equines, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, birds, dogs and cats. The founders are artists and their love of animals is evident in their artwork.  Though their central mission is to provide lifelong sanctuary for their residents, they do provide a special adoption program just for rabbits and occasionally other animals. River’s Wish has no intention of stopping with GFAS Verification but intend to apply for Accreditation as soon as possible. We fully expect them to be successful!”

“Farmed animals frequently receive minimal regard or protection, thereby making GFAS even more vital in establishing and maintaining policies and standards of care,” said Kit Jagoda, Executive Director of River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary. “Our dedicated and compassionate volunteer community works hard to ensure the well-being of the animals and to provide them with a loving environment. We are committed to long term sustainability while meeting our mission of saving lives through rescue, education, and advocacy. Working with the GFAS has been and will continue to be a central guiding factor for growth and sustainability.”

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 River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary
The mission of River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary is to save lives through rescue, education and advocacy. River’s Wish provides refuge to animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, and lifelong sanctuary.  We offer Humane Education through Art and Animal workshops, Garden to Table workshops, Compassion for Animals and Compassionate Living workshops.  We are House Rabbit Society educators. River’s Wish is home to equines, bovines, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, dogs, cats, chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks. River’s Wish is the oldest animal sanctuary in Eastern Washington. Located on 65 acres adjacent to Riverside State Park, we have been involved in rescue and sanctuary since 1994. For more information, please visit, www.riverswishanimalsanctuary.org/.

Download press release here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aims and Objectives:

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

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

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

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

Accreditation signifies that Heartwood Haven Sanctuary meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed farm animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects.

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

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

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

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

Download press release here.