Our ethological charter...
At Sanctuaire La Garie, we establish values and conduct that ensure the respect and well-being of the animals we care for. We encourage our supporters and visitors to support us in these commitments.
The essential principles...
Since 2015, the French civil code considers that animals are no longer 'movable property' but rather 'living beings endowed with sensitivity' .
We believe that legislation must progress further and integrate this principle into the rural code that governs animal exploitation. Furthermore, animals should be granted full legal status and the status of 'non-human persons', in order to better protect them and adequately punish any human action that causes their suffering and mistreatment.
We readily quote Article 4 of the Franch Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789): "Freedom consists of being able to do everything that does not harm others." This principle should apply to all beings - human and animal.
Our charter
1.
The concept of sanctuary
We offer lifelong care and hospitality to animals. This is not a shelter where animals simply pass through waiting to be adopted. Our goal is for animals to realize they are safe and can trust their guardians.
2.
Farm animals
Animals used for food production are the forgotten ones when our fellow citizens claim to be sensitive to animal rights. Far more than dogs and cats, in terms of numbers and suffering, farm animals suffer from human indifference. All our efforts are directed toward these forgotten ones, so that the new life of a privileged few becomes a symbol for all.
3.
Animal freedom
The animals are free to make their own choices and follow their instincts within the confines of coexistence with other species in the sanctuary. They are not required to work, and any interaction with humans is voluntary.
4.
The animal's personality
The sanctuary is not a collection of herds, but a community where each animal is an individual in its own right. They have a name and a past, and they each evolve at their own pace. We listen to them and support them in their individual needs.
5.
Respect for peace and quiet
The sanctuary is closed to the public to ensure the animals' peace and quiet. However, hikers are welcome to observe the animals (from a distance). We welcome individuals and groups in specific contexts, always respecting the animals' interests.
6.
Vital space
We provide each animal with with the space that best suits the needs of its species. Therefore, we prefer to save fewer animals, as long as those living at the sanctuary can thrive as much as possible—both in the fields and woods, as well as in the stables.
7.
Free stall
As far as possible, animals are free to move between outdoor and indoor spaces. Aside from the need for care, maintenance, or fencing between species, animals are never confined in their stalls.
8.
Reproduction
We avoid any reproduction of animals at the sanctuary and, to this end, in specific cases, carry out sterilization or castration. This is obviously contrary to the animals' freedom. However, compared to the past of our protégés, the absence of procreation is rather a relief.
9.
We don't eat animals
Out of respect and principle, our commitment to our protégés is that their fellow creatures will never be eaten at the sanctuary. Our core principle is vegetarianism, and our goal is plant-based human nutrition. We encourage visitors to explore the benefits of new eating habits.
10.
Hunting
As a matter of principle, we are opposed to any destruction of animal life. However, by operating in a rural and natural environment, the sanctuary lives with the reality of hunting and the laws that govern it. We prioritize dialogue with hunters and appeal to their goodwill, particularly to respect the safety and tranquility of hikers and our protégés.