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Founded | 2007 |
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Founders | Adam M. Roberts, Michael Markarian, Kim Haddad, Philip Wilson |
Type | National not-for-profit organization |
Focus | Certification of animal sanctuaries, rescue centers and rehabilitation centers |
Location | |
Area served | Worldwide |
Method | Accreditation, Verification |
Website | sanctuaryfederation |
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that sets standards of care and provides accreditation and support for animal sanctuaries, rescue centers, and rehabilitation centers.[1] It is based in Phoenix, Arizona but operates globally.[1]
In many municipalities, businesses can identify as animal “rescue centers” or “sanctuaries” without meeting core animal welfare standards. A 2018 law review found that many US “sanctuaries” and “rescue centers” neglect their animals and commit egregious violations of the Animal Welfare Act.[2] GFAS was launched in 2007 to help address this problem. The group was founded by leaders from different groups in the animal welfare sector, including Born Free USA, the Humane Society of the United States, and the World Society for the Protection of Animals.[3]
GFAS accreditation is used as a barometer for state animal licensing protocols (determining the outlets allowed to operate in a given state);[2] by foundations selecting among possible grantees;[4] and by animal welfare advocates advising the public on places to visit or financially support.[5]