FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cynthia Grisolia, Old Friends
MEDIA CONTACT Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cagrisolia@yahoo.com.
Michael Blowen, (502) 863-1775, michael@oldfriendsequine.org, or Patty Finch, Executive Director, the Global Federation of
Animal Sanctuaries patty@sanctuaryfederation.org 928.472.1173
OLD FRIENDS EARNS VERIFIED STATUS FROM
THE GLOBAL FEDERATION OF ANIMAL SANCTARIES
GEORGETOWN, KY – MARCH 22, 2012 - Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Center in Georgetown, KY, is happy to
announce that the non-profit organization has achieved “Verified Status” by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.
The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying
legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Old Friends, December 15, 2011.
Verification means that Old Friends meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue, and is providing humane and responsible care
of the animals. To be awarded Verified status an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards,
which are confirmed by a site visit. They must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles.
“Old Friends provides a unique resource for the retirement of ex-race horses,” said Jeannine Alexander, GFAS Deputy DirectorEquine. “Although the gelding of stallions is always endorsed by GFAS, having a sanctuary with experienced staff to care for stallions
that have not been gelded per veterinary recommendation is important.
“Old Friends, KY provides a beautiful, safe and peaceful environment for these deserving athletes insuring their life-long safety and
care.”
Michael Blowen, President and Founder of Old Friends expressed his pride in their accomplishment, saying, “Old Friends is honored
and humbled to receive Verification from the premiere validating organization in the world. This will re-assure our supporters that we
work hard every day to assure the safety of our great Thoroughbred retirees. I am certain that this will lead to more donations that will
lead to even more space for more deserving athletes. We are extremely grateful.”
The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by generous grants from PetSmart Charities® and The American Society
for the Prevention of Cruelty to 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 worldwide. 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 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. They represent top leadership from Born Free USA, The Humane Society of the
United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, American Anti-Vivisection Society, and National Anti-Vivisection Society.
www.sanctuaryfederation.org.
About Old Friends
Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 115 retired racehorses. It’s Dream Chase Farm, located in
Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York,
Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a
donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.
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