AAVS News
June 12, 2026
The overlooked heroes of animal sanctuaries
Dear Friend,
Tomorrow is Animal Sanctuary Caregiver Day, a day to recognize people whose compassion, expertise, and dedication is often overlooked. The work of the staff and volunteers who take care of rescued animals at sanctuaries goes far beyond feeding and cleaning. They build deep bonds with the animals they care for and provide a sense of home and healing for those who have endured trauma, often working long days in challenging conditions and in all types of weather.
Providing lifetime care for monkeys, chimpanzees, pigs, and many other animals rescued from research labs is extremely expensive. Sanctuaries and their caregivers depend on donations.
AAVS provides critical support for these organizations: Last year alone, we sent out more than $425,000 to help ensure the welfare of animals at over 20 sanctuaries. This is only possible because of generous, compassionate partners like you.
One of the sanctuaries we support is Born Free USA, which takes care of more than 200 rescued monkeys. Kyliegh Viano is known among the other caregivers as the “monkey whisperer”—she knows each monkey and their unique personalities so well that she notices the slightest change in their behavior, which lets her quickly recognize health issues. When she walks past the enclosures and greets the monkeys by name, they can be heard calling back to her.
For Animal Sanctuary Caregiver Day, will you make a special gift?
Luke Klein
President
P.S. As more animals are saved from research labs, they desperately need sanctuary care. Make a difference—give today.