Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue of Westminster, Maryland has achieved Accreditation by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

May 5, 2020, (Westminster, MD) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, awarded Accredited status to Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue as of April 21, 2020.

Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue first achieved GFAS Verification in July 2019, meeting criteria for providing humane and responsible care to equines. With dedication and commitment to demonstrating high levels of professionalism, Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue has now achieved Accredited status. Accreditation signifies that Little Longears Mini Donkey Rescue meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects.

“We are proud to announce that Little Longears has met the rigorous requirements for GFAS Accreditation and have transitioned from Verification to Accreditation with their hard work and dedication,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Although this organization started out rescuing only miniature donkeys, they have opened their barn doors to donkeys of all sizes if the need is there. Their donkeys come from many situations but importantly, they are committed to providing a safe haven for owners to surrender their donkeys if they are no longer able to care for them. The goal is to keep donkeys out of bad situations and into new homes or sanctuary.”

“Being recognized and accredited by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is an honor and validates the hard work we do,” stated Valerie Lowe, Executive Director of Little Longears. “Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue has worked diligently to help donkeys in need, always striving to provide the highest level of care for these wonderful animals. I think recognition by GFAS adds a level of credibility to an organization that donors seek.  To have met the rigorous standards set by GFAS in only our seventh year and know that we are one of only a few donkey rescues in the country to receive GFAS accreditation, inspires us to do even more!”

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. 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, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Little Longears Mini Donkey Rescue
Little Longears Miniature Donkey Rescue is dedicated to the rescue, care, and safe sanctuary, when needed, of neglected, abused, or otherwise unwanted donkeys.  The organization also provides a safe haven for owners to surrender their donkeys to, in the event that they are no longer able to care for them.  For more information, visit https://www.littlelongears.org

Download press release here.