Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
 | This page is considered an article stub and needs expanding. Please consider adding your knowledge to this page. WikiAnimal was founded April 2023 by a small, but growing, community of animal enthusiasts If you, like us, are animal fans please consider joining WikiAnimal and help spread knowledge, compassion and a love of animals around the world. |
The 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.
Development of the cetacean sanctuaries standards
The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) has published the first ever set of best practices for cetacean (whales and dolphins) sanctuaries. These guidelines were established through the combined efforts of top cetacean experts and signal a defining moment for the future of captive cetaceans across the globe. The new guidelines are the product of a collaboration between the Sea Life Trust, Merlin Entertainments, The Whale Sanctuary Project and the National Aquarium.
Sanctuaries will be ‘Cetacean Welfare First,’ meaning that the animals’ wellbeing, rather than visitor experience or company profit, will always be the priority in animal care, sanctuary design and overall operations. To be awarded GFAS accreditation, an organization must meet rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards that are confirmed by a site visit. They must also adhere to ethical and operational principles such as no breeding, no performances and freedom of choice for the animals.[1]