Animal Action Award

 

The International Fund for Animal Welfare, an organization with over 15 million members, with offices in 14 countries, works to improve the welfare of wild and domestic animals throughout the world by reducing commercial exploitation of animals, protecting wildlife habitats, and assisting animals in distress. IFAW seeks to motivate the public to prevent cruelty to animals and to promote animal welfare and conservation policies that advance the well being of both animals and people.

 

On October 18, 2004, IFAW invited Tony Grant and Audrey Tournay to the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa to receive, on behalf of the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, the Animal Action Award. The award was given to the Sanctuary primarily for the rescue of one badly abused bear cub, named Buddy – but he was representative of not only the dozens of bear cubs which have received care at the Sanctuary, and the extensive research done establishing the fact of their survival after rehabilitation, but of the many other wild creatures who receive help.

 

Awards were also given to people involved in the rescue of whales on the East Coast, burrowing owls in the west, and the white Spirit Bears of British Columbia. Jane Goodall, known around the world for her work with chimpanzees and the tremendous contribution she has made to the work with wildlife everywhere, was also given the Animal Action Award. Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary was privileged to share the ceremony with her.