international fund for animal welfare

The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) was founded in 1969 by Brian Davies, with the initial goal of stopping the commercial hunting of white seals on the east coast of Canada. Since its founding, IFAW has evolved into a global non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and welfare of animals as well as the preservation of their habitats[2].

IFAW's mission is to promote and ensure the fair treatment of animals. The focus is on improving the living conditions of all animals through campaigns against commercial exploitation, habitat protection, and rescuing animals from environmental and natural disasters. IFAW connects animal welfare with species conservation and emphasizes that healthy populations and habitats are closely linked to the well-being of individual animals[1].

• Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation: IFAW rescues and rehabilitates animals in need, whether after natural disasters, through illegal trade practices, or other threats.
• Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade: IFAW works globally to combat illegal wildlife trade and secure endangered habitats.
• Habitat Protection: In over 40 countries, IFAW secures habitats and creates safe migration corridors for endangered species, such as elephants in India[4].
• Public Awareness and Advocacy: IFAW informs the public and influences political decisions to achieve long-term solutions for animal welfare and environmental protection.

IFAW is committed to sustainable solutions that benefit both animals and people. These include:

• International Cooperation: IFAW collaborates with local communities, NGOs, and governments to find realistic and sustainable solutions.
• Innovative Approaches: IFAW develops new technologies and strategies to rescue animals and protect their habitats. Examples include developing methods to safely release stranded marine mammals back into the sea and vaccinating dogs against rabies in Bali[4].
• Partnerships: IFAW cooperates with various foundations and companies to achieve its goals. Partners like PetSmart Charities, David Rio, and EarthToday support IFAW in projects such as establishing animal clinics and educating against the consumption of illegal wildlife products[3].

IFAW is part of the Initiative Transparent Civil Society and regularly publishes detailed reports on its funding sources and expenditures. The organization is divided into twelve global units, all functioning as non-profit organizations. The shareholders of the German GmbH are responsible for all critical business decisions and meet at least twice a year[1].

IFAW is committed to mobilizing a broad public against cruelty to animals and supports concepts that serve both animal and environmental protection. Through its work, IFAW has already rescued over 200,000 animals and tirelessly advocates for a better future for animals, people, and the planet.

• 1 - https://www.ifaw.org/de/uber/legal/transparenz
• 2 - https://www.ifaw.org/about-ifaw
• 3 - https://www.ifaw.org/de/uber/partners
• 4 - https://www.ifaw.org/de/uber
• 5 - https://oceanfdn.org/de/?supporter=international-fund-for-animal-welfare-ifaw