July 11, 2023 (Birkenfeld, OR) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to On Golden Rescue (OGR) as of July 6, 2023.
On Golden Rescue achieved GFAS Accreditation, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, OGR has achieved GFAS Accreditation. This certification signifies that OGR meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and granters to recognize On Golden Rescue as an excellent organization.
“When we first were in the process of creating OGR”, Larry Boxman, Executive Director explained, “we wanted to make sure we were providing the highest quality care in the most wholesome and safest environment possible. To turn our vision into reality, we thoroughly examined many websites and spoke with representatives from other rescues and sanctuaries and discovered an extraordinary trend. The best-of the best were all GFAS Accredited or Verified. At that point, we knew for us to be the best, the GFAS standards would be our guiding principles.” He continued, “We studied the GFAS criteria and requirements, read through the sample documents and went to work. The GFAS staff have been incredible in every way. They provided guidance, suggestions and encouragement in the most professional manner possible. Obtaining GFAS Accreditation has been our goal since the inception of OGR in early 2022 and we are extremely proud to be associated with such a prestigious organization.”
Mr Boxman went on to say, “Now that we are GFAS Accredited, we know we fall into a class that has more to prove every day, rather than less. That is, Accreditation is not justification to rest on that laurel, but to prove at all times that such recognition is warranted. Accreditation not only indicates that we have met the highest standards, it indicates our commitment to continue to meet new standards and excel in ways not yet adopted into standards. After all, these animals deserve the best!”
“On Golden Rescue was a joy to work with through the certification process.”, said Traci Hanson, GFAS Program Director – Equine, “Larry and his team were, and continue to be deeply dedicated to providing the best standard of care for the animals, and growth and transparency of the organization.”
The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.
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. For more information on GFAS, go to: www.sanctuaryfederation.org.
About On Golden Rescue
In the rural countryside of the coastal range of Oregon, On Golden Rescue (OGR) has created a forever sanctuary and rehabilitation center for equines and goats. Our residents come from varied situations, some from neglected or abused backgrounds, others that are simply old and compromised and no longer “of value” to the owner while others are homeless. “No more bad days” is our credo as our residents get to live the rest of their lives in lush surroundings with top notch care and kindness. The genuine love and compassion provided by OGR to each individual resident is palpable. We have seen miracles happen in how well our rescues respond with improvements in health, behavior and happier attitudes!
Our mission is multi-faceted. Along with rescue, rehabilitate and retirement, our strategic plan also includes a community education and outreach program. By collaborating with county and state agencies, veterinarians and other non-profit organizations, OGR helps to identify situations where equines and other large animals may be in circumstances with owners where they need temporary support. Whether it be proper nutrition, farrier or veterinary care, OGR will assess and deliver needed services with the intent of the animal(s) to remain in place if it is deemed a safe and adequate. Through our Education and Outreach program, our goal is to keep animals and their people together in their current homes by helping to improve their health, safety and well-being. To learn more about OGR, go to: https://ongoldenrescue.org/about-us/.