3-year-old Asian black bear rescued

Islamabad:In a collaborative effort with Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), global animal welfare organisation Four Paws has successfully rescued an injured 3-year-old Asian black bear, Sunny, from jugglers in District Jhang.

Sunny, a former dancing bear, was rescued after being confiscated by local wildlife authorities. The bear was found to be in a critical condition with signs of severe abuse and neglect. Four Paws, in collaboration with IWMB, provided emergency medical care and relocated the bear to the IWMB Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre.

A thorough veterinary examination revealed that Sunny’s teeth were removed, a common practice in the dancing bear trade, leaving her defenceless. The bear was also found to be emaciated and in an anxious mental state.

“We are proud to have rescued Sunny and brought her to safety, said Dr Amir Khalil, Four Paws veterinarian leading the emergency mission in Pakistan. The removal of the ring from her nose marks an important moment, as it was her last dance. Sunny is now officially retired,” he said.

The rescue of Sunny is part of Four Paws ongoing efforts to support the Pakistani government in ending the cruel keeping of bears for entertainment purposes, such as dancing or baiting.

Aisha Humera Chaudhry, Chairperson, IWMB, expressed heartfelt gratitude to international organisations for their invaluable support and assistance in rescue operations. The IWMB Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre serves as a haven for rescued animals, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment to recover and thrive, said the IWMB chief.