Letter from our President

The American Sanctuary Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit accrediting organization for nonprofit organizations that provide sanctuary for homeless, abandoned and abused domestic and wild animals. Similar to the AZA (Association of Zoos & Aquariums), which provides accreditation to zoos, ASA certifies sanctuaries that provide high quality animal care and housing.

ASA offers participating organizations the opportunity to be accredited by members of their own peer group. Accredited members are also linked to a sanctuary network that allows them to share information relating to sanctuary operations and the latest in animal care and housing. This network also assists in finding sanctuary placement for animals who need help.

This is your opportunity to join a unique group of organizations dedicated to providing lifetime humane care for animals in need, and to help create policies for all ASA-accredited sanctuaries. Enclosed you will find additional materials that explains more about our mission. If you believe your animal care and handling policies meet our guidelines, we invite you to apply for accreditation now. All application information submitted to ASA, and any resulting site visit, is always kept confidential.

This is a unique period in the history of the sanctuary movement. Building on the need to differentiate between true sanctuaries that do not breed, buy, sell, trade or use animals commercially, from those that exploit animals, it is important that the public knows where you stand. Foundations and other grantors often look to us for certification that you meet these standards.

For those of us who humanely and compassionately care for animals, ASA promises to strive to be the most comprehensive accrediting organization in America. Now is the time for you and your organization to join with us. We encourage you to submit your Sanctuary Accreditation Application now. If you feel that you need additional information, please contact us with your questions.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Most sincerely,

Tippi Hedren
President
American Sanctuary Association

ABOUT TIPI

Tippi Hedren, an iconic actress and lifelong animal advocate, has been a powerful

voice for wildlife protection and animal welfare. Best known for her starring roles

in films like The Birds, Hedren’s greatest role has been offscreen—dedicating her

life to rescuing and advocating for animals in need. In 1983, she founded the

Shambala Preserve, a sanctuary for big cats and other exotic animals that had

been abandoned, abused, or exploited. Through this work, she has rescued

hundreds of animals from inhumane conditions, offering them a second chance

at life in a safe, natural environment.

Hedren's dedication to animal welfare extends far beyond Shambala. She has

been an active and influential advocate for stronger legislation to protect captive

wildlife, playing a crucial role in the passage of the Captive Wildlife Safety Act and

supporting many other animal protection laws. Her tireless efforts have helped

raise awareness about the dangers of private ownership of exotic animals and

the cruelty of the wildlife trade.

As a founding member and passionate supporter of the American Sanctuary Association (ASA), Tippi Hedren has worked hand-in-hand with the organization to ensure the highest standards of care for animals living in sanctuaries. Her leadership and advocacy have helped shape the animal sanctuary movement, creating a legacy that continues to inspire and guide sanctuaries across the country in their mission to protect and care for animals in need