Policy

Animal Sanctuary Standards and Welfare

Animal sanctuaries provide refuge for rescued animals but vary enormously in their welfare standards and oversight.

Key Facts

No universal standards or licensing requirements exist for animal sanctuaries in most countries
Some sanctuaries operate with genuine high welfare while others simply exploit animals for tourism
Overcrowded sanctuaries can create as many welfare problems as the situations animals were rescued from
Accreditation by bodies like GFAS (Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries) indicates verified standards
Volunteer tourism at sanctuaries can inadvertently fund low-welfare operations

Welfare Considerations

The sanctuary sector is vital for animal welfare but needs stronger regulation and transparency. Genuine sanctuaries provide species-appropriate care, do not breed animals for exhibition, and do not allow hands-on tourist interactions with wild animals. Discerning support for high-quality sanctuaries matters greatly.

What You Can Do

Research sanctuaries carefully before visiting or donating
Look for GFAS accreditation or equivalent third-party standards
Avoid sanctuaries that allow direct contact with wild animals
Support campaigns for mandatory sanctuary licensing and inspection standards