A three-year-old Asian black bear, named Sunny, was rescued from jugglers in Jhang on Tuesday in a joint operation by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) and global animal welfare organization, FOUR PAWS.
During a veterinary examination, it was discovered that the bear's teeth had been removed and it was being exploited for local street performances (Tamasha). The rescue effort marks another step toward ending animal cruelty and ensuring better welfare for captive wildlife in Pakistan.
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 had been removed, a common practice in the dancing bear trade, leaving her defenseless. 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 FOUR PAWS's veterinarian leading the emergency mission in Pakistan Dr Amir Khalil. "The removal of the ring from her nose marks an important moment, as it was her last dance. Sunny is now officially retired."
IWMB chairperson Aisha Humera Ch 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, she added.
Sunny's rescue is part of FOUR PAWS' ongoing efforts to support the Pakistani government in ending the cruel exploitation of bears for entertainment, including dancing and baiting.
Earlier, the first day of the holy month of Ramazan had brought much-awaited relief for a 7-year-old Asian bear who was kept in illegal captivity and used for baiting (for fighting with trained dogs) in Punjab's city Jauharabad (Khushab).
The nonstop rescue operation from Vienna to Lahore; from Lahore to Jauharabad and then from Jauharabad to Islamabad ended with safe landing of the poor creature at the animal rescue & rehabilitation centre (previously Murghazar Zoo) of Islamabad.
According to details, the rapid response team from Four Paws launched a prompt rescue and relocation mission on the request of the IWMB and the Punjab Wildlife Department and relocated the poor creature to Islamabad's animal rescue centre.
The male bear named 'Rocky' by the team was earlier confiscated by the authorities from illegal private custody after he had been subjected to severe abuse as a baiting bear.
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