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Pseudo-Sanctuaries
Don't Be Fooled!
There are a number of impostors pretending to be legitimate animal sanctuaries. Some are no more than filthy, roadside zoos, while others are even more sinister, soliciting donations from the public while they breed and sell animals to hunting ranches, meat markets, and anyone else with the money to buy them. As an animal welfare advocate, you must carefully scrutinize any facility claiming to be an animal sanctuary before you give your support. Here are some things to look for:
- Is the facility accredited by ASA, TAOS, or ACE? If not, why not?
- Is the facility a licensed, nonprofit (501(c)(3)) corporation? If it's not, what is it?
- Are the facility's financial reports easy to obtain? How is it funded?
- Does the facility have all the necessary licenses from the USDA and its state wildlife agency?
- Is it open to the public? Do they charge at the gate? What's their reasoning for doing this?
- Do the animals perform for visitors? If the animals are doing tricks, it's not a real sanctuary.
- Have you seen them in the news lately? Was the coverage positive? Check the internet for news stories that may tell you what they're really up to.
- Are the animals allowed to breed? Where do the babies go? Unless the breeding is part of a legitimate conservation program, it's not a sanctuary.
- Are animals offered for sale? If so, it's absolutely not a sanctuary.
- Do staff and volunteers react with suspicion to your questions? Be suspicious in return.
- Are there animals that visitors aren't allowed to see? Sometimes there are good reasons for this, but ask why.
- How well-constructed is the facility? Is it clean? How do the animals look? Is it safe?
If you are unsure, call your local humane society and your state wildlife agency; they might know something about the facility. You can also contact ASA, TAOS, or ACE, who might be familiar with the sanctuary in question.
Posted on July 12, 2006
