Founder of Big Cat Rescue Recipient of Global Award for Sanctuary Excellence

Carole Baskin of GFAS-accredited Big Cat Rescue is the eleventh recipient of the Carole Noon Award for Sanctuary Excellence given annually by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.

October 22 – Washington, DC – The 2019 Carole Noon Award for Sanctuary Excellence recipient was announced by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS). This year Carole Baskin of GFAS-accredited Big Cat Rescue, one of the largest accredited sanctuaries in the world dedicated to abused and abandoned big cats, was singled out for her visionary leadership and advocacy efforts to end the private possession and trade in exotic cats through legislation and education.

The Carole Noon Award for Sanctuary Excellence is given annually to a sanctuary or individual who embodies and puts into practice the GFAS philosophy of vision, dedication and excellence in animal care. It memorializes Carole Noon, founder of Save the Chimps in Fort Pierce, Florida, the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary.

“Carole is a stand out as a role model and mentor,” says Valerie Taylor, GFAS executive director. “She prioritizes the welfare of the animals in her care and generously shares her knowledge with others. Carole is also passionate about creating exciting new ways to educate the public, and inspires everyone to use their voice to end the captive trade in big cats.”

The sanctuary was founded in 1992 when Carole rescued a bobcat named Windsong. Big Cat Rescue is now home to 60+ lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars and other species most of whom have been abandoned, abused, orphaned, saved from being turned into fur coats, or retired from performing acts.

Baskin shared her thoughts about the achievement, saying, “I believe GFAS plays a critical role in helping the public identify true sanctuaries versus those who mislead the public and helping sanctuaries be the best that they can be. I am thrilled and honored to be a recipient of this prestigious award named after someone I and everyone else in this field have admired and who set such high standards for both animal care and advocacy on behalf of captive animals.”

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. 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, the ASPCA, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries.

About Big Cat Rescue:

Big Cat Rescue is one of the largest accredited sanctuaries in the world dedicated to rescuing and providing a permanent home for abused and abandoned exotic cats. Located in Tampa, Fla., the sanctuary is home to approximately 60 exotic cats, most of whom were relinquished by owners who mistakenly thought they made good pets, saved from becoming fur coats, seized by authorities, or retired from performing acts. The sanctuary’s dual mission is to provide the best possible home for the cats in our care and to educate the public about the plight of big cats in captivity and in the wild. www.BigCatRescue.org