Leaders in animal welfare founded Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) in 2007 to fulfill a need to differentiate and support sanctuaries and rescue centers that not only provide high-quality care for animals but also engage in healthy and sustainable business practices.
GFAS satisfies this need through an internationally recognized accreditation program. Eligible facilities must be a nonprofit organization, provide excellent and humane care for their animals in a non-exploitive environment, have ethical policies in place regarding tours, commercial trade, acquisition and disposition, and breeding, and have appropriate nonprofit management practices and policies in place.