Peace Ridge Sanctuary is the First Farm Sanctuary in New England to be Accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

July 28, 2021 (Brooks, ME) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Peace Ridge Sanctuary as of July 20, 2021.

Accreditation signifies that Peace Ridge Sanctuary meets GFAS’ rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education, outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Peace Ridge Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are very proud to announce the Accreditation of Peace Ridge Sanctuary and welcome them into the GFAS fold,” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. “Peace Ridge demonstrates the utmost excellence and attention to detail when it comes to caring for their animals. What is absolutely clear is their dedication to their residents’ well-being and adherence to outstanding ethics in relation to domestic animals and wildlife alike. In addition to providing sanctuary to over 400 farmed animals and equines, as well as countless wild animals whose habitat is preserved by the sanctuary, Peace Ridge is one of the few facilities in the region able to handle large-scale seizure cases. Their expertise and leadership in these areas are exemplary and we celebrate their continued plans for expansion.”

“Peace Ridge Sanctuary has provided a model for high-capacity sheltering for over twenty years, always working to do as much as possible to help animals,” said Daniella Tessier, founder of Peace Ridge Sanctuary. “We specialize in multi-species rescue with a particular focus on farmed animal and equine rehabilitation.”

Melissa Andrews, Director of Development, Education & Outreach said, “The organization serves as the primary shelter resource for state animal cruelty and neglect cases in Maine along with conducting our own investigation and rescue efforts. The organization operates two state-licensed animal shelters and is currently in the process of opening a third shelter location to increase our capacity to help animals in need.”

“In addition to our active animal rescue, rehabilitation, and sanctuary programs, PRS stewards and protects nearly two thousand acres for wildlife protection and land conservation for the benefit of all animals and our community in beautiful midcoast Maine. To further expand our reach, PRS has a comprehensive humane education program devoted to advancing animal and environmental protection.”

Daniella Tessier continued, “Having been actively involved in the animal rights community and sanctuary movement for decades, our guiding principle has always been to do this work with integrity and to never lose sight of our mission. Since the beginning, we have been building safe havens for animals to receive the very best care and an organization people can be proud to support. Together with our supporters, we are building a legacy for animals. Peace Ridge Sanctuary is honored to be the first GFAS accredited farmed animal sanctuary in New England and grateful for the opportunity to further highlight the organizational mission, ethics, and practices that make our facilities such special places.”

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
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. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Peace Ridge Sanctuary
Peace Ridge Sanctuary operates in Brooks, ME with a mission to provide permanent sanctuary to once abused and neglected animals, with a particular focus on farmed animals. We also promote compassionate lifestyle choices through humane education.

For more information, please visit: http://www.peaceridgesanctuary.org/

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