IFAW’s mission is to rescue and protect animals around the world.
We rescue individuals, safeguard populations, and preserve habitat.

Founded in 1969, the International Fund for Animal Welfare saves individual animals, animal populations and habitats all over the world. With projects in more than 40 countries, IFAW provides hands-on assistance to animals in need, whether it's dogs and cats, wildlife and livestock, or rescuing animals in the wake of disasters. We also advocate saving populations from cruelty and depletion, such as our campaign to end commercial whaling and seal hunts.

Guiding ideas

Our vision: Our vision is a world where animals are respected and protected.

Our promise: We promise supporters and policy makers effective animal protection solutions delivered with intelligence, compassion and integrity.

Our principles: In order to achieve IFAW’s vision of a world where animals are respected and protected, we follow key principles in our hands-on projects with animals and in our advocacy work to secure better animal welfare protection in policy, legislation and society:

• It should be recognised that animals have intrinsic value and are sentient beings.
• Policy should be based on sound science and the ethical treatment of animals.
• Conservation decisions should be guided by ecological sustainability and biological sustainability, the precautionary principle and ethical treatment of animals.