Category: New GFAS Certifications

February 25, 2025 (Freedom, ME) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Northeast Equine Sanctuary and Little River Farm by Peace Ridge Sanctuary and renewed the existing Accreditation for High and Low Meadow Farms on January 21, 2025.

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

“It’s hard to overstate what a powerhouse organization for animals Peace Ridge Sanctuary is,” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. “In a region where animals desperately need this resource, Peace Ridge now boasts 4 locations at which to help them, spanning over 1700 acres that provide a safe refuge for rescued equines and farmed animals, while protecting the habitat of untold numbers of wild animals. Not only are they providing world-class care and safety to over 600 rescued animals every year, their new location at Little River Farm in Belfast provides a strategic hub for education and outreach that can help create even broader change for animals everywhere. The addition of Northeast Equine Sanctuary has provided a dedicated home for caring for equines in need. They just continue to wow us. In fact, last year, Peace Ridge Sanctuary won a prestigious Outstanding Animal Sanctuary Award, in recognition of their monumental work for animals and exemplary work in the sanctuary movement. These awards are truly for the best of the best.”

“The name of the game at Peace Ridge has always been to do as much as humanly possible, to save as many animals as possible, and to do so in as cost efficient a way as possible, while working to high standards,” said Daniella Tessier, founder of Peace Ridge Sanctuary. “We have a team of people who work from the heart and that has allowed us to reach our goals. It’s enabled us to stretch our resources to the point that we’re now operating four accredited shelter sanctuaries. We are grateful for everything we are given. It literally means the difference between saving a life and not being able to.”

Melissa Andrews, Director of Development, Humane Education & Outreach said, “In addition to our tireless rescue efforts, we believe in the power of education to exponentially grow our reach. PRS shelters are a stage for active learning where visitors not only learn about the ongoing issues animals face, but where they get to meet individual animals and hear their stories. There is incredible power in storytelling, and each of the thousands of animals we’ve saved has their own story that deserves to be told. We’ve witnessed so many “lightbulb moments” and transformations in people each year and we’re excited to expand our educational opportunities with these additional locations.” 

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Peace Ridge Sanctuary
Peace Ridge Sanctuary operates in Brooks, Belfast, and Albion, ME with a mission to provide permanent sanctuary to once abused and neglected animals, with a particular focus on farmed animals. We also promote compassionate lifestyle choices through humane education.

For more information, please visit: http://www.peaceridgesanctuary.org/

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January 28, 2025 (Pinedale, WY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Sanctuary Horses as of January 25, 2025.

Sanctuary Horses achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Sanctuary Horses has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Sanctuary Horses meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Sanctuary Horses as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for Sanctuary Horses.,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at Sanctuary Horses provides quality care for equines coming from a variety of horrible situations. These horses are truly given a new life filled with love for the remainder of their lives. Sanctuary Horses is also committed to educating the public on the importance of caring for horses and preventing animal cruelty.”

Jackie Hillen, Executive Director, Sanctuary Horses states, “For Sanctuary Horses, GFAS Accreditation means we’re meeting the highest standards of care and ethics for the horses we rescue. It shows our community and supporters that we’re dedicated to providing a safe and loving environment for every horse here. This recognition helps us build trust, grow partnerships, and secure the resources we need to continue our mission of rescuing and caring for equines in need.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Sanctuary Horses
Sanctuary Horses is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing lifelong care for abused, abandoned, and neglected equines. Located in Sublette County, Wyoming, our mission is to offer a safe haven where horses can heal, thrive, and live out their lives with dignity. Beyond rescue, we aim to foster meaningful connections between horses and humans through education, community engagement, and equine-assisted programs. Sanctuary Horses is committed to upholding the highest standards of care, transparency, and stewardship to ensure a lasting impact for the horses we serve and the communities we inspire. To learn more about Sanctuary Horses, check out: https://www.sanctuaryhorses.org/about

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December 16, 2024 (Windsor, VA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Diamonds in the Rough Rescue as of November 30, 2024.

Diamonds in the Rough achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Diamonds in the Rough has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Diamonds in the Rough meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Diamonds in the Rough Rescue as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for Diamonds in the Rough Rescue.” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at DITR provides quality care for abused, abandoned, and/or neglected equines in need. These horses are provided with all they need to heal and rehabilitate before finding that forever home.”

Sonja Reuter, Executive Director of Diamonds in the Rough Rescue states, “Since Diamonds in the Rough Rescue opened its doors in 2011, we have continually strived to do the best for the horses, their owners, and law enforcement that have come to us for help. Constantly refining and expanding our program has taken a lot of work and dedication for all involved. Having achieved accreditation with the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is a testament to everyone involved with DITR that we hold ourselves to the highest standards 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 unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Diamonds in the Rough Rescue:
Diamonds In The Rough Rescue is a 501c3 non-profit organization located in Windsor, Virginia that helps support the local equine community by rescuing animals in need. Some of our rescue horses come to us because their loving owners can no longer afford to take care of them and others, unfortunately, end up with DITR in situations involving cruelty or neglect when Animal Control has to become involved. These horses are oftentimes very sick, malnourished, or underweight and require the utmost attention in their individual rehabilitation process. At Merry Oaks Stables, where our rescue organization is located, we nurse the horses back to health and find loving, forever homes for them. For more information on DITR, check them out at: https://www.adoptditr.com/.

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October 18, 2024 (McDowell, VA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accreditation status to Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary as of October 8, 2024.

Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Elegius has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that Elegius meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary as an excellent organization.

“We are very proud to announce GFAS Accreditation status for Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary.,” said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “The team at Elegius provides quality care for abused, abandoned, and/or neglected miniature horses, donkeys, and ponies in need of specialized care. These horses are truly given a safe place to heal and live out their lives well cared for and loved.”

Koressa Malcolm, Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary states, “We are so very proud of our volunteers, employees, directors, donors, adopters and supporters for all of the work and love they have put into making the Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary a safe and nurturing place for the mini equines who have come to us needing care. To have these efforts recognized by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is a testament to the power of what they have accomplished.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary
The Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary is a 501(c) 3 agency dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of unwanted, abused, and/or neglected miniature horses, donkeys and mules. We specialize in caring for equines who suffer from medical or behavioral difficulties which make them difficult to place in adoptive homes. These equines are provided with needed medical care and training activities in the hopes that they can be rehabilitated.  We provide a permanent home for those equines who may not be adoptable due to their ages, medical needs or dispositions.  We find adoptive homes for those who are healthy and well behaved. To learn more about Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary, go to: https://www.elegiusminiequinesanctuary.org/

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September 5, 2024 – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust also known as Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary as of August 15, 2024.

Accreditation means that Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true animal 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 which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. Accreditation also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors and grantors to recognize Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“It’s a pleasure to announce the recent Accreditation of Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a wonderful sanctuary providing a lush and expansive natural habitat to orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. These animals will live out their lives amongst companions and be cared for by a staff of veterinarians and caregivers dedicated to their well-being,” said Kristin Leppert, GFAS Program Director, Wildlife. “We are so proud to recognize Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary as a true sanctuary.”

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is proud to be associated with and accredited by GFAS. We are committed to the conservation of the chimpanzee as a species and to the protection and conservation of the natural habitat of chimpanzees and other wildlife. This is reflected in our actions and policies and this accreditation is a testament to our commitment to continually improve and be an example to other sanctuaries in Africa. 

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner.www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is managed by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (Chimpanzee Trust) a locally registered nonprofit in Uganda whose vision is the sustainable conservation of chimpanzees in their natural habitats and the provision of the best captive care for this that cannot live in the wild. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is home to now, 53 orphaned as rescued chimpanzees on a 100-acre Island on Lake Victoria. The sanctuary boasts of being a ‘model’ sanctuary for primate species, specifically chimpanzees in Africa. The sanctuary was founded in 1998 as a result of a combined local and international effort to provide a solution to the escalating pet trade in chimpanzees characterized by civil war and insecurity in the country in the 80’s and early 90’s. Hundreds of infant chimpanzees were (and still are) separated, often violently from their families, for export for exploitation in pharmaceutical development, experiments and the pet trade, due to their closeness and similarity to humans.

The sanctuary offers a safe home for those that have been fortunate enough to be rescued from such situations. They serve as a beacon of hope for the unfortunate ones that are sold, and now more than ever, for those that continue to lose their natural habitat, the tropical forests due to deforestation that is rampant world over. The Chimpanzee Trust programs are designed to address these challenges and create hope for the future of the species for generations to come.

The Chimpanzee Trust is Guided by a Board of Trustees with representation from local and International Conservation NGOs and Government Agencies concerned with the welfare of wildlife. www.ngambaisland.org

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July 11, 2024 (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 the Born Free Foundation’s Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve as of May 15^th, 2024.

Accreditation means that Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true animal 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 which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. Accreditation also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors and grantors to recognize Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari as an exceptional organization.

“We are thrilled to announce the recent Accreditation of Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari, an outstanding organization providing a peaceful permanent home and lifelong care to rescued lions and leopards from zoos, circuses and private ownership,” said Kristin Leppert, GFAS Program Director, Wildlife. “Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari is the first GFAS certified felid sanctuary in South Africa and their steady commitment to this achievement has made all of us at GFAS proud.

A sentiment echoed by Born Free’s Sanctuary Manager in South Africa, Catherine Gillson who added, “We at Born Free, Shamwari are so proud to have this accreditation from GFAS as a genuine sanctuary. Our primary goal is the holistic well-being of our rescued big cats along with creating awareness about the threats these creatures face in the wild. We hope that sanctuaries like ours are not needed in the coming years and lions and leopards are only sighted in their natural habitats.” 

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner.www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Born Free was founded by Bill Travers MBE and Dame Virginia McKenna DBE, who starred in the movie classic, Born Free (1966), together with their eldest son, Will Travers OBE, who now leads the charity as its Executive President. Born Free’s mission is to ensure that all wild animals, whether living in captivity or in the wild, are treated with compassion and respect, and are able to live their lives according to their needs, as far as possible. Born Free opposes the exploitation of wild animals in captivity and campaigns to keep wildlife in the wild.

Born Free promotes compassionate conservation which strives to enhance the survival of threatened species in the wild and protect natural habitats, while respecting the needs of and safeguarding the welfare of individual animals. Born Free seeks to have a positive impact on animals in the wild and protect their ecosystems in perpetuity, for their own intrinsic value and for the critical roles they play within the natural world. For more information about Born Free please visit: www.bornfree.org.uk

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

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

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

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

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was

founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at

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

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

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

What If Farms achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, What If Farms has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that What If Farms meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize What If Farms Inc. as an excellent organization.

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

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

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized, and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner.www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

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

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