GFAS Supports Accredited Sanctuary Care for Retired Research Macaques

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Valerie Taylor
Email:
Phone: 623-252-5122

Phoenix, AZ — [June 22, 2026] — The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) supports the transition of retired research macaques into permanent sanctuary care that meets the highest standards of animal welfare, safety, and long-term sustainability.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a solicitation seeking a qualified sanctuary facility to provide lifelong care for approximately 130 retired nonhuman primates. The solicitation outlines important requirements for placement, including GFAS accreditation, no research or breeding, no buying, selling, or trading of animals, species-appropriate environments, behavioral support, veterinary care, and a commitment to lifelong sanctuary.

These requirements reflect the essential elements of responsible sanctuary care: organizations with demonstrated expertise, operational readiness, appropriate resources, and a long-term commitment to the animals entrusted to them.

Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary, a GFAS-accredited facility in Texas, has provided such care for nonhuman primates for more than 15 years and has demonstrated a commitment to meeting rigorous standards for animal welfare, veterinary care, safety, governance, emergency preparedness, and sustainability. GFAS recognizes and supports the expertise of Born Free USA and other GFAS-accredited sanctuaries that have the capacity and experience to provide retired research animals with safe, enriched, lifelong care.

“GFAS accreditation exists to identify facilities that have demonstrated the capacity, expertise, and resources necessary to provide lifelong sanctuary care,” said Valerie Taylor, Executive Director of the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. “As agencies make decisions about the future of retired animals, independent accreditation provides an objective framework for evaluating readiness and long-term welfare outcomes.”

The transition of nonhuman primates from laboratory environments into sanctuary care requires thoughtful planning, behavioral expertise, veterinary oversight, and ongoing management. Successful placement depends on more than available space alone — it requires facilities that can support the animals’ physical, social, and behavioral needs for the rest of their lives.

GFAS remains committed to supporting evidence-based placement decisions that prioritize animal welfare. As more animals retire from research and other captive environments, the need for qualified, accredited sanctuary care will continue to grow. Every retired animal deserves a future defined by compassionate care, appropriate environments, and organizations equipped to meet their lifelong needs.

We invite the public to affirm the importance of accredited sanctuary care by signing our statement of support for evidence-based, welfare-focused placement decisions for retired animals. Signatures can be added at: https://sanctuaryfederation.org/how-to-help/release-the-monkeys/

About GFAS:
The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is the only globally recognized accrediting body for animal sanctuaries and rescue centers. GFAS accreditation is awarded to organizations that meet rigorous standards of animal care, ethics, safety, governance, and operational excellence. Through accreditation, verification, and support programs, GFAS works to improve the lives of animals worldwide by strengthening the organizations that care for them.

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