FOUR PAWS Helps Rescue Severely Abused Bear Used For Baiting In Pakistan

Photo by: FOUR PAWS

A rapid response team from the global animal welfare organization FOUR PAWS swiftly mobilized to Pakistan on March 1st, in response to an urgent request from the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) and the Punjab Wildlife Department. Their mission: to aid in the critical rescue and relocation of a seven-year-old male bear.

The bear, named Rocky by the rescue team, had been confiscated from illegal private captivity in the Sargodha district, where he endured severe abuse as a baiting bear. This brutal, illegal practice forces bears into fights against trained dogs purely for entertainment.

Reports from the scene indicate that Rocky had suffered through 35 such fights, leaving him with numerous injuries, including several bleeding wounds on his face and back. Upon arrival, FOUR PAWS experts promptly administered vital veterinary care and facilitated Rocky’s relocation to the IWMB Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Islamabad.

The rescue operation is a testament to the joint efforts of Pakistani Wildlife Authorities and FOUR PAWS, following a decisive court ruling. The organisation remains committed to supporting the Pakistani government in eradicating the cruel exploitation of bears for activities like dancing and baiting.

The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board enlisted FOUR PAWS’ assistance after the bear’s confiscation on February 27th. The Magistrate’s Court had ordered Rocky’s relocation, supported by the Assistant Director Wildlife for the Punjab Region, as the initial facility lacked the necessary resources for his care. Disturbing video footage provided to FOUR PAWS underscores the harsh reality of bear fighting, capturing the severely weakened Rocky being aggressively attacked by dogs during one of his recent battles.

“Through our extensive experience in rescuing and protecting bears under human influence worldwide, we have seen firsthand the immense suffering they endure for human entertainment, including bear baiting and dancing. FOUR PAWS welcomes the ongoing work of the Pakistani government to end these inhumane practices and we are prepared to support this vital effort. By working together, we aim to create sustainable, long-term solutions that safeguard the welfare of these animals while supporting the creation of improved legislation to once and for all end the illegal exploitation of bears in Pakistan,” said Josef Pfabigan, CEO and President of FOUR PAWS.

Rocky had all his teeth removed for the fights. To support his recovery, a specialized dietary plan will be created in addition to his post-surgical care, ensuring he gets the right nutrients despite being unable to chew. During critical veterinary treatment, FOUR PAWS experts treated his wounds and removed his nose ring and neck chain, which were so tight they had damaged his skin.

“We found the bear in worrying condition, with bleeding injuries on his eyes, nose, ears, and back. The abuse he had to endure has left physical and mental wounds, as he is in a state of shock and constantly shaking. We took immediate measures to relieve his pain and treat his injuries. We also helped IWMB with relocating him to a suitable home, where he can find some peace. He is a symbol of hope for all the other bears that still suffer for human entertainment. We are one step closer today to finally stopping this absurd abuse and suffering,” said FOUR PAWS veterinarian Dr. Amir Khalil, who leads the action in Pakistan.