Four Paws, IWMB treat rescued bears

Islamabad: In a significant development for wildlife conservation in Pakistan, Four Paws, an international animal welfare organization, has teamed up with the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) working under Ministry of Climate Change to provide crucial medical treatment to eight bears rescued from bear dancing and poachers since 2021. This initiative comes after the direction of the Punjab Minister of Wildlife, Marryam Aurangzeb ordered all wildlife departments to raid districts iin Punjab and confiscate “dancing bears”. Aneela the female bear who received treatment from Four Paws today was confiscated by Gujranwala wildlife department and handed over to IWMB’s wildlife rescue centre for rehabilitation. Together Punjab Wildlife and IWMB are demonstrating their commitment to wildlife protection.

Aneela was treated today by expert veterinarians from Four Paws. She underwent a comprehensive medical examination, during which the team removed a nose pin and treated broken teeth & injuries inflicted by poachers. Additionally, other injuries were identified and successfully treated, ensuring Aneela's well-being and future health.

Four Paws is set to examine the remaining seven bears rescued by IWMB in the coming days, providing them with the necessary medical attention and care. Moreover, Four Paws has recommended the establishment of a permanent sanctuary for bears at the site of the old zoo, hence providing a safe and suitable environment for these rescued animals in the near future. They will be now working with IWMB to establish a permanent sanctuary on site of old Islamabad Zoo. This collaboration between Four Paws, IWMB, and the Punjab Wildlife Department marks a significant step forward in wildlife conservation efforts in Pakistan.