Category: New GFAS Certifications

February 14, 2018, (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 Project Chimps as of February 1, 2018. Project Chimps is the newest chimpanzee sanctuary in the United States and provides lifelong care to former research chimpanzees at a forested, 236-acre sanctuary in north Georgia.

Achieving GFAS Accreditation means that Project Chimps 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 Project Chimps as an exceptional sanctuary.

“We are proud to announce the recent Accreditation of Project Chimps” said Jeanne Marie Pittman, GFAS Program Director for North, South and Central America. “This is a truly amazing facility with a highly experienced and dedicated staff” says Pittman, “and it is wonderful to seeing chimpanzees retired from research enjoying the life they truly deserve”.

Project Chimps purchased a former gorilla sanctuary near Blue Ridge, Georgia, in 2015. The facility currently includes several great ape housing “villas,” a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, a kitchen made possible by Rachael Ray, a six-acre outdoor habitat, and a large chimp-introduction building where chimpanzee groups will be integrated and socialized. To date, 31 chimps have been transferred to their permanent home in the sanctuary. Approximately 20 additional chimps are expected to join them in the first half of 2018. The organization is raising private funds to expand the sanctuary in the coming years to eventually care for more than 200 former research chimpanzees.

“Project Chimps welcomes third-party inspection and oversight, and we are grateful to GFAS for their thorough review of our policies, practices, and facilities. The accreditation process will facilitate our efforts to continually assess and improve our operations and management,” said Ali Crumpacker, executive director of Project Chimps.

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 Project Chimps

Project Chimps was founded in 2014 to provide lifetime care to former research chimpanzees at its sanctuary on 236-acres of forested land in north Georgia. In 2015, Project Chimps reached an agreement with the biomedical research laboratory that has the largest population of privately-owned chimpanzees in the United States in order to bring more than 200 chimpanzees to Project Chimps’ sanctuary. Project Chimps is privately funded and in the process of transferring these intelligent and sentient beings from the lab to their new homes, where they will spend the remainder of their lives. http://www.projectchimps.org/

Download press release here.

January 31, 2018, (Eureka Springs, AR) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) as of December 26, 2017.

Achieving GFAS Accreditation means that TCWR 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 TCWR as an exceptional sanctuary.

“We are proud to announce the recent Accreditation of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge” said Jeanne Marie Pittman, GFAS Program Director for North, South and Central America. “The commitment and dedication of Turpentine Creek’s staff and management is truly inspiring.” TCWR provides life-time care for over 100 previous mistreated or unwanted animals, including lions, tigers, bears, pumas, leopards and numerous small cats. “Going through the accreditation process with GFAS has helped our organization to be recognized as a true sanctuary that is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of animal care and safety,” says Tanya Smith, the Executive Director of TCWR. “We are excited to bring attention to the growing issues of big cats in captivity and private ownership.”

TCWR is dedicated to not only saving the lives of big cats and other exotic animals in need but also helping to educate the public about the plight of big cats in captivity. Throughout their 25-year history, they have saved the lives of over 500 animals. Rescues have ranged from single animal rescues to large rehoming projects where over 115 animals were relocated to 15 sanctuaries throughout the U.S. with TCWR heading up the project. Beyond performing rescues and caring for the animals that call the refuge home, TCWR also dedicates themselves to helping to educate the next generation of animal keepers with their post-graduate biannual internship program. Over 400 interns have passed through the program and are now Zookeepers and veterinarians all over the globe.

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 Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Founded in 1992, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization operating one of America’s largest big cat sanctuaries. Turpentine Creek does not buy, sell, trade, or breed our animals. They are a hands off facility and do not allow contact with the animals in their care. They are accredited with the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, a member of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, a member of Tigers in America, USDA Licensed and Arkansas Game and Fish Licensed.

Their Mission is to provide lifetime refuge for abandoned, abused, and neglected “Big Cats” with emphasis on Tigers, Lions, Leopards, and Cougars.

Additional Information Sources & Photos

http://www.TurpentineCreek.org

https://www.facebook.com/TurpentineCreekWildlifeRefuge/photos_stream

Download press release here.

January 5, 2018 (McCoy, CO) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Mountain Valley Horse Rescue as of January 2, 2018.

Accreditation signifies that Mountain Valley Horse 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 the transition from Verified to Accredited status of Mountain Valley Horse Rescue,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The progress this group had made since the time of their original Verification with GFAS is truly inspiring.  Much work went into obtaining funding for the recent purchase of their new property, while still providing excellent day-to-day care for the horses.  This myriad of improvements has ensured MVHR’s services will continue to help horses-in-need.”

“The GFAS Accreditation process was an outstanding exercise for MVHR to participate in,” said Shana Devins, Executive Director of Mountain Valley Horse Rescue. “Our growth and expansion over the last few years made this process a perfect next step, allowing us to carefully consider all aspects of our rescue, and ensure our sustainability for the long term for the animals we serve.”

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 Mountain Valley Horse Rescue
Mountain Valley Horse Rescue rehabilitates abused, neglected, abandoned and unwanted horses with the hopes of finding them all loving adoptive homes.  For those difficult​ to adopt, we offer a limited number of sanctuary opportunities at our 115-acre ranch in McCoy, Colorado.  MVHR prides itself on caring for each equine that comes into our care as an individual, investing in their health, care, and training to find them safety and security for the rest of their lives.  MVHR also works to introduce people to horses and grow the community of horse advocates through a wide (and growing) variety of programming for people with the rescue horses. For more information, visit https://www.mountainvalleyhorserescue.com/ or call 970-376-1743.

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.

December 22, 2017, (Meriden, KS) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Freeman Arabian Ranch & Rescue as of December 21, 2017.

Verification means that Freeman Arabian Ranch & 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 Freeman Arabian Ranch & Rescue as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Freeman Arabian Ranch & Rescue,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The commitment of the group’s founders, Board, and volunteers, to providing exceptional sanctuary care to horses and their promotion of safety net programs for equines and owners within the community, provides great benefit to the animals residing in their care and beyond.”

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 Freeman Arabian Ranch & Rescue
Freeman Arabian Ranch & Rescue is a primarily self-funded, 100% volunteer and donation based, 501c3 non-profit forever animal rescue/sanctuary located on thirty-nine acres north of Topeka, Kansas. Those who come into our care become permanent members of our rescue family and live out their lives with us never knowing hunger, neglect, cruelty, fear or abandonment ever again. We offer community assistance and also transport, foster and collaborate with other rescues as well as advocate for new and improved animal protection legislation as a way of improving the lives of more animals than we can possibly provide lifetime care for ourselves.  For more information, visit http://www.freemanarabianranch.com/  or call 785-250-4314.

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.

December 6, 2017, (Riverview, FL) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to RVR Horse Rescue as of November 27, 2017.

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

“We are proud to announce the Verification of RVR Horse Rescue,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The dedication of this organization to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of equines-in-need in Florida is tremendously commendable, especially as all their work is carried out solely by an all-volunteer personnel base. In addition, the work being done by RVR to bring educational opportunities regarding equine issues to the community is helping to increase awareness of equine needs.”

“We are honored to earn our verification status from such an amazing organization,” said Shawn Jayroe, Executive Director of RVR Horse Rescue. “We are extremely proud of our volunteers and community supporters, and the countless hours of preparation they put into making this possible.”

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 RVR Horse Rescue
RVR Horse Rescue is an all-volunteer organization that provides rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing to horses and donkeys in need.  From its beginning as a rescue serving the Tampa Bay area, RVR is now recognized and called upon by law enforcement agencies and other rescues throughout the state of Florida. RVR has earned a reputation for stepping in when no one else can. RVR’s medical partners and volunteers have the dedication and expertise to handle the worst cases of starvation, injury and abuse. RVR functions as a hospital, with the ability to provide 24-hour critical care when necessary. RVR recognizes that it is not only abused horses that need a second chance. In 2016, RVR became accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, and we now use our expertise to rehabilitate injured racehorses, providing them a quality post-racing life. To diminish the number of horses needing rescue, RVR provides support to horse owners in the form of gelding (neuter) vouchers as well as feed and hay support in times of need. Adoption into a loving home is RVR’s goal for every equine that enters our gates. 176 horses have found homes since 2011. There are no deadlines or expiration dates for horses whose adoptability has been lessened by age, health issues, or emotional challenges. RVR will continue to provide them with food, shelter and medical care, along with a hefty dose of loving attention from volunteers. RVR is committed to the enrichment of the Tampa Bay community through our love of horses. We offer educational programs for children, visiting schools and senior communities and hosting events at the rescue for Scout troops and other groups. We currently have three miniature horses training for certification as therapy animals so we can expand our presence to hospitals and nursing homes. We are keenly aware that by fostering engagement between humans and horses, we will simultaneously spread joy and knowledge, and increase awareness of equine needs. For more information, visit http://rvrhorserescue.org/ or call 813-280-9299.

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.

November 29, 2017 (Lima, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Begin Again Horse Rescue Inc.(BAHR) as of November 27, 2017.
Verification means that Begin Again 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 Begin Again Horse Rescue as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the Verification of Begin Again Horse Rescue,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The focus of this organization, the rescue of equines that are at risk of neglect, abuse, or going to slaughter, is admirable. Most notably, Begin Again’s work doesn’t stop after rescue and rehoming. The group follows up with, and visits, adopted horses throughout their lives, ensuring that the equines will always be safe”.

“Going through the verification process with GFAS has helped our organization by encouraging and empowering us to be the best we can be, thus generating an exciting new era of growth, which will ultimately benefit the equines in our care,” said Tammy Lozipone, BAHR’s Board of Directors’ Secretary. “We’ve been working towards this goal since we moved to our new location in 2013”, she added.

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 Begin Again Horse Rescue
Begin Again Horse Rescue, Inc. is a temporary place of rest and recuperation for horses found to be neglected or abused. Located in Lima, New York, our founding members have many years invested in the care and well-being of their own animals. We DO NOT sell horses, but facilitate the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of those animals in our care. We strive to find as many loving, informed homes for as many horses as possible. We are almost a 100% volunteer run facility and operate solely on donations and grants. We will accept horses in any condition, as space allows, that are surrendered by private owners, through county animal control facilities, and by purchasing kill-pen horses from livestock auctions. We focus our attention on horses within a two-hour radius of the farm. For more information, visit http://beginagainrescue.org/ or call 585-322-2427.

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.

September 28, 2017 (Puslinch, ON) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada as of September 28, 2017.

Accreditation signifies that The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada 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 very proud to announce the recent Accreditation of The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, the first GFAS Accredited equine sanctuary facility in Canada,” said Valerie Taylor, GFAS Director of Accreditation – Equine. “The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada really provides a model for other equine sanctuaries to aspire to.  The exemplary life-long care provided to equines residing at The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, coupled with the organization’s solid business practices and willingness to educate and involve the community on equine issues demonstrates their commitment to the responsible stewardship of all animals.”

“The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada (DSC) is thrilled to become accredited with the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. This prestigious honor is reflective of the highest standard of care that the DSC practices with, and promotes for donkeys and donkey hybrids. Accreditation supports our deep commitment to the welfare of animals and we’re proud to be part of the GFAS community. We eagerly look forward to many years of collaboration with GFAS and its other members and stakeholders “said Lesley Bayne, Executive Director of The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada.

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 The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada

​ The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada (DSC) is a registered Canadian charity that, since 1992, has been a refuge for donkeys.  Our mission is to provide a lifelong home to donkeys, mules and hinnies that are unwanted, neglected or abused, or whose owners can no longer care for them; and to promote the responsible stewardship of all animals through humane education.  We envision a world in which the dignity and worth of all creatures are recognized and respected.

We grant to every animal admitted:

• Peace, freedom and protection
• The best possible care and medical attention
• The right of life regardless of age or condition
• A dignified, peaceful death, induced only in the event of extreme suffering and the loss of quality of life

We work to uphold the Five Freedoms:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst
2. Freedom from discomfort
3. Freedom from pain
4. Freedom to express normal behavior
5. Freedom from fear and distress

The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada is located at 6981 Concession 4, Puslinch, ON, N0B 2J0, Canada. If you would like more information, please contact our office at 1-519-836-1697 or visit our website at www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca.

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.

(Cozumel, Mexico) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Rancho Universo A.C. Heal a Horse Sanctuary as of September 1, 2017.

Verification means that Rancho Universo A.C. Heal a Horse 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 Rancho Universo A.C. Heal a Horse Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are so excited to announce the first GFAS Verified organization in Mexcio,” said Kellie Heckman, GFAS Executive Director. Valerie Taylor, GFAS Director of Accreditation, agrees, “the dedication and willingness of Heal a Horse to provide assistance to horses in an area where services for their care are few, is absolutely inspiring. The work being done by Heal a Horse has made great strides to raise the standard of care for horses on Cozumel, and demonstrates the organization’s commitment to horses-in-need.”

“We feel very proud and honored to be Verified by GFAS. We’ve worked for years and the center will carry on the work even after I’m gone.,” said Liliana Hough, Executive Director of Rancho Universo A.C. Heal a Horse Sanctuary. Being approved and Verified by GFAS will give our center the opportunity to continue helping those who have no voice.”

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 Ranch Universo A.C. Heal a Horse

At Heal a Horse Cozumel Sanctuary we endeavor to improve the quality of life of those with no voice.  We are trying to dispel the myths that respect is only gained through pain and abuse, and that animals are lesser beings.  Although it is not easy to change a mentality, by giving people the opportunity to see that things can be done differently, they can choose whether or not to continue on the same path. Heal a Horse provides equine sanctuary, and equine assisted activities and therapies services.  The organization also endeavors to raise awareness and respect, offering clinics and workshops on horsemanship, shoeing, and veterinary care to local horse owners. One day at a time, one horse at a time!   For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call +5219871143670.

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.