I came up with the idea for the Animal-Friendly Giving Guide because I had the goal of allowing users to list their own veg-a-thons on veg-a-thon.com, but didn't want to let them list veg-a-thons supporting organizations with positions, policies or practices that were especially harmful to animals.

Now anyone can create a user account on GiveFriendly.com. Your account allows you to participate in our new forum where you can discuss the Test of Animal-Friendliness.

The following additional requirements are proposed for "companion animal" shelters and foster networks applying for inclusion in the Animal-Friendly Giving Guide. They are inspired by the American Sanctuary Association's Sanctuary Criteria.