Animal Sanctuary Standards: Accreditation and Best Practice

With thousands of animal sanctuaries operating worldwide, accreditation systems help distinguish genuine welfare-focused operations from exploitative venues using the sanctuary label to attract visitors.

Key Facts

The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) accredits facilities meeting rigorous welfare, staffing, and record-keeping standards.
Legitimate sanctuaries do not breed animals, sell animals, or allow direct public contact with wildlife.
Volunteer tourism to unaccredited "sanctuaries" often funds operations that exploit animals for profit.
GFAS-accredited sanctuaries must demonstrate lifetime care commitments for animals in their charge.
Many facilities calling themselves sanctuaries are legally classified as roadside zoos with minimal oversight.

Welfare Considerations

Animals in poorly run sanctuaries can suffer as much or more than in other captive settings. Overcrowding, inadequate veterinary care, and inappropriate housing cause chronic welfare deficits. The sanctuary label carries no legal protection in most jurisdictions, making it essential that donors and visitors assess operations critically. GFAS and similar accreditation bodies provide independent verification that an organization meets professional welfare standards.

What You Can Do

Verify sanctuary accreditation through GFAS (sanctuaries.org) before donating or volunteering.
Avoid any sanctuary offering direct animal contact, cub petting, or photo opportunities with wildlife.
Research sanctuaries using resources like the Sanctuary Federation and World Animal Protection.
Ask sanctuaries directly about their breeding and release policies.
Report facilities misrepresenting themselves as sanctuaries to local wildlife authorities.