Duchess Sanctuary Earns Accreditation from Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
August 20, 2010
Oregon horse sanctuary is ‘an exemplary haven,’ says GFAS director
The Humane Society of the United States and The Fund for Animals are proud to announce that their southeast Oregon sanctuary for rescued horses, Duchess Sanctuary, has been accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.
“Duchess Sanctuary is more than 1,000 acres of pure heaven for horses,” said Patty Finch, executive director of the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. “We are impressed with the dedication to letting horses live the way nature intended, in large social groups with beautiful pastures and shelters. The level of knowledge and dedication of the professional staff is inspiring and sets a gold standard for others.”
The accreditation means Duchess meets the comprehensive and rigorous definition of a true equine sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals, meeting rigorous and peer-reviewed standards for operations, administration and veterinary care established by GFAS, which is the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries. The accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for public, donors and government agencies to recognize Duchess Sanctuary as a credible sanctuary that adheres to the true mission of providing safe haven and humane care for abused animals. Duchess joins Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch, The HSUS’ and The Fund for Animals’ flagship sanctuary in Texas, in earning the accreditation.
“The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is the leader in the sanctuary profession, and we are proud that the Duchess Sanctuary meets its accreditation standards and bears its seal of approval,” said Debra Parsons-Drake, The HSUS’ senior director of animal care centers. “Hundreds of horses rescued from cruelty and abuse will live out their lives in peace and safety thanks to the high standards of professional animal care at Duchess Sanctuary.”
Duchess Sanctuary—owned and operated by The Fund for Animals in partnership with The HSUS—is a 1,120-acre facility south of Eugene, Ore., that was established in 2008 as an oasis for about 200 formerly abused, abandoned, neglected and homeless horses.
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 in the United States and abroad. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting sanctuaries 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 hidden animal exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. These founding leaders sit on the GFAS Board of Directors to continue guiding the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. They represent top leadership from Born Free USA, The Humane Society of the United States, World Society for the Protection of Animals, American Anti-Vivisection Society, and International Fund for Animal Welfare.