The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center (KYEAC) is proud to announce that it has been named the 2026 Outstanding Equine Sanctuary by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), an internationally recognized organization dedicated to promoting the highest standards of animal care, professionalism, and ethics.
Announced October 30, 2026, by the GFAS Board of Directors, this prestigious recognition celebrates organizations demonstrating excellence in humane and responsible animal care, professionalism and ethics, organizational sustainability, public engagement, and leadership within the animal sanctuary community.
KYEAC is honored to receive this distinction and to represent Kentucky's equine community among an internationally recognized group of organizations dedicated to improving the lives of animals.
KYEAC was among a distinguished group of organizations recognized internationally this year, joining Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas, Magical Creatures Sanctuary in Hawaii, and Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue in Cameroon.
For the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, this recognition represents far more than an award. It is a testament to the dedication of its staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, supporters, and adopters who work together every day to give Kentucky's horses a second chance.
"We are incredibly honored and humbled to receive this recognition from GFAS," said Carrie Wood, MBA, Executive Director of the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center. "This award belongs to every person who has believed in our mission and invested their time, talent, and resources in helping horses find their way to a better life. Our team works tirelessly on behalf of horses who cannot speak for themselves. Every horse who comes through our gates deserves compassionate care, an opportunity to thrive, and the chance to find a loving forever home. To have that work recognized on an international level is truly extraordinary."
Established to create second chances for Kentucky's equines, KYEAC provides care, rehabilitation, retraining, and adoption opportunities for horses in need. Working with horses from across the Commonwealth, the organization is committed to preparing each horse for a successful future while educating the public about responsible equine ownership and aftercare.
As a GFAS-accredited organization, KYEAC is committed to upholding rigorous standards of animal care, operational excellence, and ethical responsibility. This recognition further reinforces the organization's commitment to ensuring that every horse receives the individualized attention, compassionate care, and opportunity it deserves.
"At the heart of everything we do is the belief that every horse matters," Wood added. "We are proud to represent Kentucky's equine community and the many individuals and organizations who share our commitment to making a difference in the lives of horses. This honor inspires us to continue moving our mission forward."
The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center invites the community to celebrate this achievement and join in supporting its ongoing mission. Contributions, volunteer involvement, and community partnerships make it possible for KYEAC to continue providing second chances to horses throughout Kentucky.
To learn more about the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, meet the horses available for adoption, or support its mission, visit www.kyeac.org.
This press release has not been edited by BloodHorse. If there are any questions please contact the organization that produced the release.
