GFAS Standards are formatted in such a way as to separate the Operations and Animal Care portions. One single volume of Operations Standards, containing guidelines for governance, finance, staffing, safety and outreach is meant to apply to facilities caring for any/all animal taxa. Operations Standards are then paired with the Animal Care Standard(s) which correspond to the animals being cared for at any sanctuary facility. All applicants for Accreditation or Verification are expected to comply with the Operations Standards and Animal Care Standards.
History and Development of Standards
The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) has developed and maintained a set of 26 animal-specific and operations standards that we use to promote excellence in animal care and evaluate organizations' operations. The GFAS Standards were initially developed and reviewed with the input of non-profit professionals, sanctuary managers, animal protection advocates, and veterinarians utilizing existing standards from outstanding sanctuaries as a starting framework and refined/expanded upon based on knowledge and expertise of contributors. GFAS continues to embody the power of collaboration, as we work together with like-minded partner organizations to improve animal care, sanctuary safety and sustainability, and seek feedback on our standards.
The GFAS Standards are considered living documents, as practices continue to progress and change through advancements in knowledge. Comments, feedback, and proposed changes received are directed to the GFAS Accreditation Committee and reviewed during a formalized, annual and regular process for revisions to GFAS Animal Care and Operations Standards.
For free access to view, download, or print the GFAS Operations Standards and all developed volumes of Animal Care Standards, please submit your contact details.
GFAS certified sanctuaries can also access all Standards within the Sanctuary Resources portal.