In May of 2001, two bottlenose dolphins were languishing in a crude holding pit in the mountains of Santa Lucia Milpas Atlas, Guatemala. Both dolphins – a male named Turbo and a female named Ariel, had been captured from the wild and brought to the mountains by truck fourteen months earlier. Their captors were in the process of training them to perform in shows in the infamous traveling dolphin circus known as Water Land/Mundo Marino, when the Guatemalan environmental organization, MadreSelva, discovered the primitive operation. MadreSelva immediately alerted the authorities and asked them to look into the legality of Water Land´s captive dolphin training camp.
Water Land operates out of Margarita Island in Venezuela. Ruben Roca, the owner of the same traveling dolphin show that had illegally held Cheryl the Russian navy dolphin until her death, abandoned Ariel and Turbo when Guatemalan authorities instigated proceedings against him for their illegal capture.
Roca had left the dolphins in a shallow, stagnant pit, which had been dug with a backhoe. The hole was inserted with a white plastic liner, and a three foot high cement wall topped it off. The dolphin trainers had taken the fish freezer and parts of the filtration system with them when they fled the country in the middle of the night. As a result, the filtration system was not working, and the dolphins were literally living in a cesspool. According to eye witnesses, the pit had originally contained four dolphins. It is presumed that the two missing dolphins, named Sammy and Pinky, were transported to Water Land´s base in Margarita Island.
Ric O’Barry checking on the condition of Ariel and Turbo.
Dolphin Project, which at the time was working with the World Society of the Protection of Animals (WSPA) was initially contacted by Ms. Magali Rey Rosa of MadreSelva. When Ric and Helene O’Barry showed up in the remote mountain location to inspect Water Land´s dolphin training camp on June 1st, they found Ariel and Turbo floating listlessly on the surface of the foul-smelling water.
The dolphins were malnourished and dehydrated, and their skin was discolored from the contaminated water. Rocca’s rented house and the pit he had dug for the dolphins was located at an elevation of more than 6,000 feet. The altitude had played havoc with the dolphins’ health, and they had not eaten in several days.
Ric and Helene set up camp next to the pit and implemented first-aid. The filthy water was pumped out, and the bacteria-ridden liner was scrubbed clean. The pit was refilled with 25 tanker-trucks of fresh city water as well as 2400 pounds of salt. A new heavy duty swimming pool filtration system was installed. They fed the dolphins freshly-caught fish injected with water and electrolytes in order to re-hydrate them.
While Helene and Dr. Juan Carlos Murillo, a WSPA veterinarian, nursed the two dolphins back to health with fresh fish, vitamins and antibiotics, Ric flew to the edge of the Guatemalan jungle by helicopter provided by the Guatemalan Army to search for a site to build a sea pen. An ideal site was chosen when pods of resident bottlenose dolphins were spotted from the air. With the help of the Guatemalan army, a huge sea pen was erected in record time in Graciosa Bay, on the bayside of the Manabique Peninsula.
It took more than five weeks of negotiations between the Guatemalan government, MasdreSelva and WSPA to secure the dolphins´ release. While the negotiations went on, members of the dolphin captivity industry tried to roadblock our efforts. For the dolphins, this was a do-or-die situation: They could not survive in the holding pit much longer.
The authorities finally awarded custody to WSPA, and on July 12th Ariel and Turbo were transported out of the mountains and back to the sea.
The Guatemalan navy provided a truck that would transport the dolphins from Santa Lucia Milpas Altas to the airport in Guatemala City. The dolphin rescue team had received death threats a few days earlier, and police and army personnel escorted the truck the entire way.
From Guatemala City, the dolphins were transported by plane to the naval base in Puerto Barrios. From there, it was just a 20-minute helicopter ride to the awaiting sea pen in Graciosa Bay where, for the first time in over a year, Ariel and Turbo once again experienced real sea water and a spacious environment. Never again would they have to perform tricks in order to be fed. The healing process could begin.
Airlifting Ariel and Turbo to their readaption and release facility ~ with Helene Hesselager O’Barry.
While the remote site at the edge of the Guatemalan jungle was ideal for rehabilitating dolphins, it posed many challenges for the dolphin rescue team. Ric and Helene were dropped off in the jungle with very few supplies, and as they saw the helicopter take off and disappear, they had no idea where they were going to spend the night. Just before dark, they found a small platform that could be used as a camp site. Here, they were safe from panthers, crocodiles, poisonous snakes and the large pack of wild dogs that lived in the area.
A freeze brand is used to create a logo on the dorsal fin for tracking after release.
Ariel and Turbo had only spent a short time in captivity and were perfect candidates for release. They had spent enough time in the wild prior to their capture to know how to survive, which fish to catch and how to avoid predators. Once introduced to the large sea pen, they showed no interest in humans whatsoever, and they had not forgotten how to hunt live prey. They spent most of their time leaping, diving and catching fish in the deep end of the sea pen. A pod of resident bottlenose dolphins entered Graciosa Bay twice a day to hunt for fish and each time visited the sea pen.
Dolphin Rehabilitation Sea Pen
Ariel and Turbo were rehabilitated using the Dolphin Project protocol. On the day of their release back into the wild, they were quickly adopted by the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. Both Ariel and Turbo were seen together by local fishermen one year later. Turbo was spotted again on January 2003 in the Sarstoon River, which form a portion of the border between Belize and Guatemala. He was swimming with a group of wild dolphins.
Ric O’Barry’s Dolphin Project is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible as authorized by law.
© 2021 Ric O’Barry’s Dolphin Project. All Rights Reserved.
171 Pier Ave. #234
Santa Monica, CA 90405
An orangutan named Boncel is pictured after being translocated to the main forest from a palm oil plantation, in Ketapang, West Kalimantan province, Indonesia, on August 18, 2020. (Courtesy of /International Animal Rescue (IAR) Indonesia/Indonesia’s Environment and Forestry Ministry (KLHK)/Rudiansyah/Handout via REUTERS)
A Bornean orangutan found on an Indonesian palm plantation has been rescued and returned to the forest, a conservation group said on Wednesday, the latest example of how habitat loss is piling pressure on the critically endangered animal in the wild.
The male orangutan, named “Boncel” and estimated to be 30- to 40-years-old, was found in a plantation in the Indonesian portion of Borneo island with four other orangutans in early August, International Animal Rescue (IAR) said in a statement.
“We found five orangutans (in the area) and we managed to relocate four of them back into the wild, except this male orangutan that still remained in the plantation,” said Andiri Nurillah, a veterinarian working for the Indonesian arm of IAR.
The great ape was darted with a tranquilizer at the plantation in Ketapang, West Kalimantan province, before being put in a cage and taken by motor boat on a river to a safer area in the forest.
Read also: Leonardo DiCaprio shows support for Sumatran orangutan conservation program
Boncel was in good condition when found, apart from a fractured finger and other minor injuries, said Nurillah, adding that his move had gone smoothly.
The release came soon after two other Bornean orangutans were rescued from captivity on Java island and sent to a rehabilitation center on Borneo to assess whether they can be released back into the wild.
Only around 100,000 Bornean orangutans are estimated to be left in the wild, according to the World Wildlife Fund, with the population crashing by more than 50 percent over the past 60 years.
The animals have suffered from illegal poaching, as well as destruction of habitat due to large-scale logging and replacement of forests with cash crops such as palm oil.
fox43.com
Ford recalls 268K cars in North America to fix door latches 2 minutes Ford says it’s not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem. Vehicle owners will be notified starting May 4. Ford is recalling more than 268,000 cars in North America to fix doors that could open unexpectedly or may not close. The recall covers the 2014 through 2016 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ, and the 2014 and 2015 Ford Fiesta. Cars in Mexico, U.S. territories and 16 states with high temperatures are affected. Ford says a lever in the door latch can crack and fail. Typically doors won’t close when it fails, but customers may be able to latch it after repeated attempts. If that happens, the doors could open while the cars are in motion. Ford says it’s not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem. Dealers will replace the side door latches. Owners will be notified starting May 4. Vehicles that are or have been registered in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Washington are affected.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – It sounds bizarre, but it’s also true. The clips on the backs of bras can save a turtle.
“It acts like a little fixator, it’s the eyelets that we need,” Keenan Freitas at the Carolina Waterfowl Rescue says.
The group, you could say, is after your unused unmentionables. These are the same people who spend most of their time among a team of injured turtles.
“80 percent of them are hit by cars,” Freitas says. “The other five percent are hit by boats, the remaining are environmental.”
When these sometimes shattered shells come in, they’re not in good shape, and in the summer, there are quite a bit more of them.
“It’s when it…
View original post 204 more words
By Lauren Lewis –
December 13, 2018
Photos from Idaho Black Bear Rehab (IBBR), Facebook
It is with heavy hearts that WAN shares the sad news that Cinder, the inspiring bear who was brought to recover in Idaho after her paws were tragically burned in a wildfire four years ago, was shot dead a little more than one year ago, by a heartless hunter.
According to Idaho Black Bear Rehab (IBBR), which cared for Cinder before her release into the wild, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) shared the devastating update with the nonprofit organization yesterday.
As noted in one of numerous posts on the IBBR’s Facebook page, WDFW explained that the department had recollared Cinder in her den two years after her initial release. When Cinder’s collar stopped transmitting in October 2017, the department believed she was still hibernating in her den.
Due to heavy snow in the spring, and the cougar creek fire in the summer, the department was not able to go back and retrieve their cameras until September 2018.
“Unfortunately, instead of finding a den,” noted the explanation on Facebook, “we found Cinder’s skeletal remains. It appears that she was killed by a hunter in October 2017.”
Sally Maugan of IBBR shared memories of Cinder, as well as insight into the countless animal rescuers who worked so hard to save her life.
“Not many of us can know the pain and suffering that accompanies burns of that magnitude, the pain of recovery, bandage changes, and all that goes along with it. Yet Cinder was a definite inspiration to humans who also knew that pain and suffering, and to the many supporters around the world who followed her story,” Maugan shared in an emotional post. “I think most of us felt if she could do it, if she could fight to recover, if she could regain her freedom, then we humans could also face our own traumas and survive to live again.”
“As wildlife rehabilitators, we all face the goal of recovery and release,” continued Maugan. “However, we also face the inevitable knowledge that once released, the animals are in charge of their own lives and there is little we can do to impact that.”
IBBR has helped save more that 200 bears over the past 29 years.
“I never met a bear who would consider living in captivity as really living,” said Maugan. “Our tribute to Cinder is to never forget her, to thank her for showing us how to heal in the worst of times, and for her courage and fight to survive to live free again.”
Maugan also made a point to appreciate the WDFW, Pilots N Paws, Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care, Inc., and everyone involved for all of their “care and kindness in giving Cinder a second chance.”
WAN echoes their appreciation! R.I.P. sweet angel Cinder!
Contact us: contact@worldanimalnews.com
© Copyright 2018 – WorldAnimalNews.com
By WAN
December 14, 2018
This week, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) announced that it has granted $225,000 to nine equine rescue groups to support their efforts to save and rehabilitate retired racehorses.
Launched in 2010, the ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative has awarded over $2 million dollars to prepare retired racehorses for new homes after their racing careers end.
“The ASPCA is dedicated to ensuring horses nationwide have good welfare, and through the Rescuing Racers Initiative we are able to provide much-needed grant funding to the many groups around the country that provide critical resources to former racehorses,” said Dr. Emily Weiss, Vice President of Equine Welfare for the ASPCA in a statement. “While their racing careers may have ended, these retirees still have much to offer as they transition into new homes, and we are pleased to support the efforts of these groups as they rehabilitate and retrain these horses for life off the track.”
Selected recipients include a wide range of equine rescues, each being awarded a grant ranging from $10,000–$45,000 to support their work. Recipients of the 2018 ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative include:
CANTER/National
CANTER, Michigan
Friends of Ferdinand, Indiana
Kentucky Equine Humane Center Inc., Kentucky
MidAtlantic Horse Rescue, Inc., Maryland
New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, Kentucky and Ohio
ReRun Inc., New York
The Exceller Fund Inc., Kentucky
Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Kentucky
The ASPCA Equine Welfare department is focused on ensuring that horses nationwide are protected, which includes working collaboratively with stakeholders in both the rescue community and equine industries to help at-risk horses safely transition to new careers and homes, increasing safety net support for horse owners, and enhancing anti-cruelty efforts. The ASPCA’s efforts to ensure that equines have good welfare also includes supporting humane legislation and advocacy, as well as field rescue and targeted equine grants. In 2017, the ASPCA awarded more than $750,000 in equine grants to assist 91 equine organizations across the country.
By Lauren Lewis –
December 14, 2018
Exclusive photos shared with WAN by Dr. Peter Li, China policy specialist at Humane Society International
In a remarkable rescue operation, a covert coalition of animal advocates throughout China saved close to 400 cats from certain death from an illegal slaughterhouse in Tianjin.
While a relief, the plight of the cats and the heroes who saved them is far from over, as they continue to fight against and try to end the barbaric dog and cat meat trade that runs rampant across the country.
To delve deeper and help raise awareness about this lesser-known but equally harrowing aspect of the deplorable trade, WAN talked exclusively this morning with Dr. Peter Li, China policy specialist at Humane Society International (HSI).
Li explained that 375 cats crammed tightly together in 24 wire cages were discovered earlier this month by China Animal Protection Power (CAPP), a rescue group HSI helped to form in 2016, together with other activists from Tianjin and Beijing.
Li shared that CAPP is made up of action-oriented animal advocates scattered across the country that range in age from their mid-20’s to 30’s, ready to quickly mobilize when needed. He also emphasized the need to protect the identities of CAPP members from the “formidable evil force” of the Chinese dog and cat meat trade “that finds anyone they can to attack.”
That is why, Li told WAN, they never use members full names.
In this case, Li explained that Mr. Huang, a CAPP member, chaired the negotiation sessions with law enforcement and presented authorities with arguments against the slaughterhouse for food safety, public health, animal disease control policy, and criminal law violations.
As per Li, there are no animal protection laws in China, it is the environmental and health regulations that animal activists like CAPP increasingly use to persuade the police to crack down on the dog and cat meat trade.
Huang, who described the event as “heartbreaking,” was one of the first rescuers to arrive at the illegal slaughterhouse.
CAPP further reported that the cats at the slaughterhouse were in terrible condition, many emaciated and sick. They also found piles of cat hair outside, with the remains of thousands of cats that had been slaughtered at the site.
“The way cats are killed for China’s meat trade is notoriously brutal. They are grabbed around the throat with large iron tongs and then beaten over the head with a metal or wooden stick while their terrified cage mates look on. Some may still be conscious when they are thrown into a pot of boiling water to remove their hair,” noted Li, further explaining that the cats are disemboweled, beheaded, and de-footed to disguise the species, before being shipped to buyers. “This is the fate of an estimated four million cats a year in China, a mixture of stolen pets and urban strays.”
“If the authorities enforced existing food safety, animal disease control, and property protection laws, we would see a huge decline in China’s brutal dog and cat meat trade,” continued Li. “A legislative ban on the trade is our ultimate goal, but we don’t need to wait for that to make a difference. We just need police forces willing to act like this one in Tianjin.”
It has been reported that Tianjin police have received more than 1,200 phone calls from people across China urging them to crack down on this illegal slaughterhouse, an indication that news of the raid had spread on Chinese social media WeChat.
“While temporarily closed, activists are putting pressure on local government to shut down the slaughterhouse permanently,” said Li, who immediately began contacting local activists, organizations, and HSI partners, once he was alerted to the situation.
The rescued cats were subsequently handed over to Capital Animal Welfare Association (CAWA), one of the country’s most credible organizations. Among its many distinctions, CAWA helped stop the introduction of rodeos into the country in 2012.
While some cats are hospitalized, many have been sent to different groups, including ones in Beijing. Sadly, Li estimates that there are still approximately 200 in Tianjin that are waiting for safe accommodations.
“We always encourage adoption rather than purchasing dogs or cats from stores,” Li told WAN, explaining people interested in adopting any of the rescued cats should contact HSI which will then arrange to address the requests.
“Compared to dogs, it is much easier and less expensive to coordinate and facilitate adoptions of cats from China to the United States and around the world,” Li told WAN.
The illegal slaughter operation in Tianjin is now under police investigation.
People outside of China that are interested in adopting one of these precious cats, should contact Humane Society International at (202) 452-1100 or, from North America, at (866) 614-4371. HSI can also be reached by email HERE!
Contact us: contact@worldanimalnews.com
© Copyright 2018 – WorldAnimalNews.com
This campaign is trending!
$12,716 of $30,000 goal Raised by 195 people in 9 days
Created November 11, 2018
Friends and supporters , once again I’ll be entering the burn zone to effect fire cat rescues. I spent well over 800 hours rescuing fire cats in the Tubbs Fire of Sonoma County and the Carr Fire of Shasta County.
This time I’ll be self deploying to the Camp Fire in Butte County. There are thousands of missing, displaced and burned animals(most of them cats). I am requesting some help to purchase equipment(trail cams, batteries ), food for my bait stations, veterinary donations, supplies and fuel for the trips back and forth. Anything helps. This is a long haul effort and I’ll be traveling to Butte County as often as twice a week(about 400 miles round trip)to rescue fire cats and to train volunteers and families on how to find their missing fire pets.
This is about the animals and their families. Bringing a lost pet back to these folks who’ve lost everything brings them back from the darkness and gives them hope. I witnessed this over and again when I reunited many fire cats with their families. I do not do this for a living bit out of love and compassion. Please check my fb page for regular reports and updates..
Click here to support Butte County fire cat rescue organization by Shannon Jay
thedodo.com
Lily Feinn
6-7 minutes
Firefighter Chris Harvey and Sacramento Fire Chief Gary Loesch were driving down Honey Run Road in Paradise, California, on Saturday when they came across something entirely unexpected.
Just days before, the deadly Camp Fire had ripped through the Sierra Nevada foothill community of Paradise, leaving behind the charred remains of homes and husks of cars. The fast-moving blaze had claimed both human and animal lives, transforming a town of retirees and young families into something eerily deserted. Or so they thought.
While en route to investigate an accident caused by a falling tree, Harvey and Loesch spotted two weary animals emerging from the smoke.
The donkeys were slowly hobbling down the center of the road in the opposite direction, and it was clear to Harvey that they were very lost.
Firefighter Chris Harvey approaches two lost donkeys
Facebook/Sacramento Fire Department
“We pulled over to let them pass, and saw that they looked very tired, worn out and thirsty,” Harvey told The Dodo. “I tried to give them some water in my hand from a water bottle, but it kept spilling out.”
Firefighter feeds donkeys lost during Camp Fire
Facebook/Sacramento Fire Department
Harvey knew that after what the donkeys had been through the animals needed more than a few sips of water, so he grabbed the apples out of his and Loesch’s sack lunches and fed them to the donkeys.
Immediately, Harvey could see the difference that his little act of kindness made to the survivors.
Fireman rescues lost donkeys during Camp Fire in California
Facebook/Sacramento Fire Department
“They ate the apples quickly and seemed grateful for the snack,” Harvey said. “We called base camp and had them dispatch animal control officers to get the donkeys.”
Facebook/Sacramento Fire Department
Harvey and Loesch waited with the donkeys until they were safely in the care of animal control. Though it is unknown whether the donkeys will be able to reunite with their family, their rescue is a ray of hope when people need it most.
https://www.thedodo.com/on-the-farm/firefighters-rescue-donkeys-camp-fire-paradise-california
To support the victims of the Camp Fire, you can make a donation to one of the nonprofit organizations helping in the wake of this disaster, such as the American Red Cross or the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund.
To support the HSUS’s ongoing animal rescue and relief efforts, you can make a here. https://www.thedodo.com/on-the-farm/firefighters-rescue-donkeys-camp-fire-paradise-california here.
By Lauren Lewis –
November 14, 2018
Many beautiful Samoyed dogs were rescued from an ugly situation that unraveled earlier this week. More than 160 dogs were found in a breeding facility in inhumane conditions near the north-central border of Iowa and Minnesota.
According to the ASPCA, the dogs are currently receiving medical exams and undergoing behavior evaluations at an undisclosed temporary shelter.
“We received many inquiries from people expressing interest in adopting these animals and we ask for their patience as these animals are considered evidence in an active case,” Sheriff Dan Fank with the Worth County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
The investigation was set into motion by the Sheriff’s Office several months ago when local animal welfare groups became aware of the breeder’s inability to properly care for her animals and alerted local authorities to investigate the matter.
Sadly, many of the rescued dogs were found living in overcrowded conditions and “filthy dilapidated kennels” in below freezing temperatures, exhibiting signs of neglect. Several cats that were reportedly found on the property were also suffering from severe neglect.
“Our priority is to get these animals much-needed medical care and treatment and continue to support the Worth County Sheriff’s Office with their case,” said Tim Rickey, Vice President of ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. “We appreciate the overwhelming support from the public and plan to help the Sheriff’s Office seek suitable placement options once disposition is determined and give animal lovers an opportunity to give these animals loving homes.”
The Samoyed, also known as “Sammies” are friendly, smart, social dogs, that thrive with love and attention.
Animal neglect charges are pending based on evidence collected by ASPCA experts in support of the investigation.
The following agencies are supporting the ASPCA in the field and with their sheltering operations: Animal Rescue League of Iowa; Companion Animal Practices North America; Dubuque Regional Humane Society; Humane Society of North Iowa; Humane Society of Scott County; Nebraska Humane Society; Veterinary Centers of America (VCA); and Wichita Animal Action League
Please Go Plant-Based!
“One Person CAN Make A Difference”
TAGS:Animal News,Animal Protection,Animal Rescue,Animal Welfare,animal welfare organization
Iowa,puppy mill
Contact us: contact@worldanimalnews.com
© Copyright 2018 – WorldAnimalNews.com
By WAN –
November 13, 2018
As one lady searched for her lost canine companion, she had no idea she would end up saving nearly 200 stolen dogs from the dog meat trade.
On Sunday, November 4th, police in Chengdu, China, raided an illegal dog meat slaughterhouse and sent all 171 dogs to the Sichuan Qiming Small Animal Protection Center for health checks and rehab.
Many of the rescued dogs are clearly stolen pets. Steps will now be taken to re-unite them with their guardians and find them forever homes.
On arrival to the slaughterhouse, police found piles of dead dogs stacked high in a refrigerated room. The slaughterhouse was unable to produce a permit for their sickening activities, five workers were arrested.
Animals Asia has been assisting Qiming as they tackle the huge task of caring for 171 newly rescued dogs, by providing vaccinations, testing kits for infectious diseases, and three tonnes of dog food.
Animals Asia Cat and Dog Welfare Director, Irene Feng said in a statement, “the swift and tough crackdown by the Chengdu police sends a strong message to dog thieves and illegal butchers that they are not above the law. Their cruel trade is breaking hearts as they steal deeply loved companion animals, and their complete lack of regard for laws and hygiene make them a serious threat to wider public health.”
The media has reported that the illegal slaughterhouse was discovered as a local woman searched for her lost Belgian Malinois.
Mrs. Peng traveled to Jianyang City and was told of a slaughterhouse in Kuixing Village. When she entered the slaughterhouse, her dog immediately recognized her.
Although she was afraid to tell the workers that this was her stolen companion, Mrs. Peng tried to negotiate to buy the dog back, but after leaving to make a phone call to her husband, she returned to find that her dog had been killed.
She filmed the scene and contacted local police, which led to the raid and eventual rescue of 171 dogs.
Animals Asia Founder and CEO, Jill Robinson MBE said, “images from the scene of this slaughterhouse are absolutely horrific and have pulled back the curtain on this brutal trade for many people. It is heartening to see the public, the authorities, and local charities all working together to stamp out this cruel industry and do what is right for the animals.”
“This rescue wouldn’t have been possible without authorities taking the issue seriously and being willing to collaborate with partners in the charity sector. Similarly, without the local charities, there would be nowhere to send the surviving dogs, and without an animal loving public like Mrs. Peng, the shadowy slaughterhouse could have got away with their illegal activities for many more years.”
Last month, police in Chengdu’s Xindu district uncovered meat traders holding 120 dogs without proof of origin.
All 120 animals were rescued and sent to Sichuan Qiming Small Animal Protection Center where they will be cared for while the legal case against the suspects continues. With the animals considered “evidence” in the case, they cannot be re-homed, but they can be returned to their original guardians.
“This incident shows how much progress has been made in terms of collaboration and the increased seriousness with which the authorities are treating dog meat trade related crime. But more needs to be done,” said Irene.
“We’ll continue to work with our partners in government and to encourage them to strengthen supervision and law enforcement in each stage of the industry supply chain, including stronger penalties for stealing and poisoning dogs, cracking down on the illegal slaughter and trade of dogs, and stopping the continued the illicit trafficking of dogs.“
The number of animal welfare organizations in China has increased in the last decade. In 2006, there were just 30 domestic welfare groups, while today more than 200 are working to help animals in need.
Animals Asia currently funds and mentors an astonishing 60% of all China’s local animal welfare organizations.
The charity also works with authorities across the country encouraging local governments to work with animal welfare groups to develop advanced, humane, science-based policies, governing legal guardians and departments in charge of stray populations.
To date, more than 523 officials from 51 cities across the country have attended Animals Asia’s Dog Ownership Management Symposium – covering every single principality in China, and 65% of all provincial capitals.
Qiming has attended five of Animals Asia’s Dog Ownership Management Symposiums, and the two organizations have a long history of collaboration going back a decade.
The two groups have worked together to care for animals after earthquakes in 2008 and 2013, while Animals Asia has donated materials such as vaccines and food on numerous occasions over the past 10 years, as well as providing funding to improve Qiming’s shelter infrastructure.
“One Person CAN Make A Difference”
TAGS:Animal Cruelty,Animal News,Animal Protection,Dogs
Contact us: contact@worldanimalnews.com
© Copyright 2018 – WorldAnimalNews.com
By WAN –
October 26, 2018
Animals Asia’s rescue team arrived at their Vietnam Bear Rescue Center on Tuesday, October 23rd after rescuing another female Asiatic black bear from a bile farm in Vietnam’s Cao Bang province.
The rescue marks Animals Asia’s 200th in Vietnam, with the charity having saved a further 418 bears in China.
As a result of the rescue, the bile farm has been shut down and the owners will never again be able to keep bears.
“Rescuing the 200th bear is certainly a milestone for the team, but most importantly, this is another individual rescued, another farm closed, and another step closer to completely eradicating bear bile farming in Vietnam,” said Animals Asia Vietnam Director Tuan Bendixsen in a statement.
The bear, who does not yet have a name, was originally thought to have been around three years old when registered in 2005. However, her owner claims she bought the bear 17 years ago when she was just a cub weighing an estimated 75 pounds. Moon bears can live to be up to 30 years old.
The rescued bear will now begin a 45-day quarantine period during which she will also receive health care and be introduced to a healthy, species-appropriate diet.
After quarantine, she will be moved to a spacious den where she will begin her rehabilitation process and regain her strength. Eventually, when she is physically and mentally ready, she will be introduced to other bears and given access to an outdoor enclosure.
“We’re delighted that this long-suffering bear is finally safe and we can begin to make her well again,” said Animals Asia’s Vietnam Bear and Vet Team Director, Heidi Quine. “Overcoming such extreme cruelty and isolation is never easy, but each bear reacts differently. So far, she seems calm but there have also been signs of psychological trauma.”
In August of this year, Animals Asia successfully rescued five bears in South Vietnam, while last month, a female moon bear named Sky was rescued from the mountainous Lao Cai province.
Bears on bile farms in Vietnam suffer from poor nutrition, egregious health and living conditions, and no proper veterinary care. As a result, they often display physical and emotional symptoms such as pacing and hitting their bodies against the bars of cages.
Moon bears are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN, and categorized as endangered by CITES. More than 10,000 are held on bear bile farms in China, and around 800 are also trapped in cages as part of the industry in Vietnam.
Animals Asia began to take on the issue of bear bile farming in Vietnam in 1999, opening its Vietnam Bear Rescue Center (VBRC), the first sanctuary devoted to bears in that country, in 2008.
Bear bile farming has been illegal in Vietnam since 2005 when every bear in captivity was micro-chipped. However, without facilities to hold the over 4,000 bears on farms at the time, those holding the bears were permitted to keep them, and the practice persisted.
However, in 2017, the government signed a landmark partnership agreement with Animals Asia to ensure that every farm is closed and the remaining approximately 800 bears are sent to sanctuaries by 2022.
Today, nearly 200 bears live peaceful lives at Animals Asia’s VBRC, while a further 190 are cared for by the nonprofit organization in China.
No-Name is in bad shape. She’s suffered in silence for many years. She will need extensive care and rehabilitation in the coming weeks and months.
To help, please donate to Animals Asia https://worldanimalnews.com/breaking-200th-bear-arrives-at-animals-asias-vietnam-sanctuary-after-suffering-17-years-of-bile-farm-misery/ #EndBearBileFarming
Please Go Plant-Based!
“One Person CAN Make A Difference”
A woman may face charges for sheltering over two dozen pets in a warehouse space following the devastation caused by Hurricane Florence even though she did not have a license to do so. Urge North Carolina officials not to punish this woman for this selfless act of compassion.
Source: Do Not Punish Woman for Rescuing Pets Stranded by Hurricane Florence
onegreenplanet.org
Kelly Wang
It isn’t every day you get to hear about someone truly heroic. And we’re sad that it’s Hurricane Florence that is the reason we’re hearing this news. But when a pet lover buys and converts an old school bus to rescue animals left after others have evacuated, we have to share the story. Trust us! This one will put a smile on your face.
Tony Alsup, a trucker from Greenback, Tennessee, drove into South Carolina last week with one intention; to evacuate the dogs and cats left behind in shelters. He drove to shelters in North Myrtle Beach, Dillon, Georgetown, and Orangeburg, rescuing 53 dogs and 11 cats with the intention of transferring them to a waiting shelter in Foley, Alabama, safe from the storm.
Alsup has been doing this for around a year now. When Hurricane Harvey was approaching Houston, Alsup answered an online plea for anyone to help evacuate animals from shelters in the storm’s path.
He volunteered to pick them up in his semi-truck, and the rescues assumed that would mean he could take dozens of animals … unfortunately, he only had the front end of the truck – not the massive trailer. Alsup knew he needed something bigger, so he bought a school bus and immediately drove to Texas to fill it with pets for the first time.
Image may contain: 2 people, people smiling, outdoor
And he’s been doing this ever since, driving into areas about to be hit by a hurricane to get animals out of harm’s way. The bus is full of animal transport cages, water, and food to keep all the passengers happy on board!
Here he is, with some of his four-legged charges, who might be confused but are, at least, safe and dry. Alsup refers to these animals as the “leftovers” because they are the ones that get left behind!
Alsup said, “It’s so easy for people to adopt the small pets and the cuties and the cuddly. We take on the ones that deserve a chance even though they are big and a little ugly. But I love big dogs, and we find places for them.” These dogs en route to Foley will be taken to shelters across the country once Hurricane Florence has passed. They’ll all be ready to be adopted thanks to the kindness of this hero!
We are always happy to hear about Good Samaritans rescuing animals left behind during storms. And we are even happier when we hear about measures put in place to protect these pets before the storms even hit. What Alsup has done here with his bus rescue has wedged a special place in our hearts. Thank you, Tony, we need more heroes like you in the world!
Image Source: Tony Alsup/Facebook
europol.europa.eu
The Spanish Guardia Civil carried out the operation in which some 1 100 turtles and 750 eggs were rescued
Three individuals have been arrested and three others detained
Europol supported the operation by coordinating the exchange of information between Spain and the following European countries: Austria, France, Germany and Italy
14 of the 50 most endangered species in the world
Operation Coahuila, carried out within the framework of Europol’s operation Naultinus, began in February 2017 when officers from the Spanish Guardia Civil seized a shipment of turtles at Mallorca airport, as the turtles in the shipment did not match the details included in the corresponding declaration.
Police later discovered a farm in the Balearic Islands devoted to the industrial breeding of several species of water turtles and tortoises. More than 1 100 adults and hatchlings and over 750 eggs were seized. These numbers are expected to increase because there were more than 200 females about to lay eggs. Among the species found on the farm were 14 of the 50 most endangered turtle species in the world, some originating from Canada, Mexico and the United States and protected by respective national legislation. There were also turtles from South Asia considered at high risk of extinction as well as black turtles, listed as “vulnerable” in Spain. The total value of this reptiles and eggs is worth some EUR 600 000, with some of the species worth up to EUR 10 000 per turtle.
Pet shop in Barcelona used to launder the specimens
Criminals used to poach endangered species of turtles and then they falsified the content of the accompanying documents stating that the turtles or the eggs belonged to their breeding farm. The turtles were shipped by animal couriers specialised in reptile and amphibian transportation. The owners of the farm collaborated very closely with a pet shop in Barcelona, which specialised in exotic animals and was used to smuggle the turtles bred in Mallorca. The operation resulted in two individuals arrested in Mallorca alongside one in Barcelona and another three people detained in both cities. They are accused of offenses against wild fauna and flora, smuggling protected species and money laundering.
The Spanish Guardia Civil lead this operation with the support of experts from the CITES Convention (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and experts from Europol, who cooperated from the beginning by analysing and coordinating information from several EU countries, such as Austria, France, Germany and Italy and by deploying one expert to Spain equipped with a mobile office and a Universal Forensic Extraction Devices (UFED). This allowed cross-checks of the data gathered during the course of the actions against Europol’s databases, as well as the extraction of data from the mobile and computer devices seized for its posterior analysis.
https://www.europol.europa.eu/newsroom/news/europe%E2%80%99s-biggest-illegal-turtle-farm-dismantled
By WAN
July 30, 2018
Photos from CHP
While working on an update on the devastating wildfire in Northern California that is currently threatening people and animals in Redding and surrounding areas, WAN came across a special story of survival.
As per posts on numerous California Highway Patrol Facebook pages, on Saturday, July 28th, San Francisco Sergeant Fawson responded to a call about a young deer who was alone, stranded, and in need of being rescued from the 80,000 acre fire.
“SF Area CHP units have been deployed to the #CARRfires in Redding, CA. This baby deer was pulled from fire danger and was turned over to a deer rescue organization, shared the Facebook post. “God speed CAL FIRE and all other fire and first responder agencies providing mutual aid. You are truly the Bravest.”
Redding CHP explained on its Facebook page that the fawn was so close to the fire that they could not wait for her mother to return.
While the deer rescue organization has not been identified yet, it did send the department some pictures of the rescued fawn now named Carra, and assurred them that she is “doing well and drank a lot of water and took quickly to the bottle.”
Tragically, the Carr fire claimed numerous lives so far including two young children and their great-grandmother. It is unfathomable how many animals have also already fallen victim to the flames.
WAN is praying for everyone who has been affected by the wildfires and hopes that no more lives are lost as a result of the tragedy.
WAN will continue to provide updates as they come.
© Copyright 2018 – WorldAnimalNews.com
By WAN –
March 13, 2018
Photos from Europol
A Spanish network illegally trafficking rare animals has been dismantled after more than 600 smuggled reptiles were found earlier this week.
Nine people were arrested and seven suspected members of the criminal organization are currently under investigation, as per Europol which made the announcement.
“This little dragon is free again,” the European law enforcement agency shared in a post on its Facebook page yesterday. “Big hit by Guardia Civil and Europol against an organized crime group trafficking more than 600 protected reptiles from the Americas, Asia, Africa and Oceania.”
The group reportedly purchased the animals from Australia, the Fiji Islands, Mexico, New Zealand, Oman, and South Africa, before illegally transporting them to Spain.
Europol explained that it provided analytical and operational support and “assisted Guardia Civil officers by deploying a team to Spain with a mobile office and UFED extraction capabilities on the internationally-coordinated action day, providing them with real-time intelligence analysis and forensic support.”
Their efforts helped to identify transnational links with other serious and organized crimes around the world.
Overall law enforcement authorities from 17 countries worldwide were involved in the operation.
Help Us End Wildlife Trafficking!
Please Go Plant-Based!
“One Person CAN Make A Difference”
TAGS:Animal News,Animal Protection,Animal Rescue
Illegal Wildlife Trafficking,Reptiles,Spain,Wildlife Smuggling
© Copyright 2016 – WorldAnimalNews.com
Chester coyote with Larry and Cheryl
“Knowing him changes you.” ~ Larry, a Wisconsin trapper who adopted a coyote pup
It was June of 2016. I had a call from a Wisconsin trapper – and it was déjà vu all over again. Larry, a Wisconsin trapper and cattle rancher, had adopted an orphan coyote pup, then 4 years old. A DNR warden had shown up at their door to tell Larry’s wife, Cheryl, “We will be back to pick up your coyote to kill him.”
In February 2013 I wrote about a similar situation. Rick Hanestad and his two children had sought and found a coyote den after the mother was killed by a turkey hunter. She had been nursing, so they knew she died close to her den. A year later, with his then 7-year-old daughter and 14-year-old son bonded to the coyote as a family pet, a boundary…
View original post 808 more words
Lauren Lewis –
January 22, 2018
A white tiger and a snow-white tiger, along with two bears were seized late last week according to In-Sync Exotics, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the rescue of neglected, abused and unwanted exotic felines.
On the organization’s Facebook page, it explained the situation and shared the good news that the tigers, named Assad and Zahra were relocated to their new home at the In-Sync Exotics’ sanctuary located in Wylie, TX. The bears were transported to Frank Buck Zoo in Gainesville, TX.
A joint operation between In-Sync Exotics, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the local county Sheriff’s office, who reportedly seized the animals from owners who did not have the proper permits and were housing them illegally.
“Both tigers will be in mandatory quarantine for 30 days. Their quarantine area is located in the sanctuary’s on-site veterinary clinic where staff veterinarian, a veterinary technician and keepers will provide the highest quality of medical care to diagnose and treat any issues they have currently,” noted the post, “as well as maintain their health throughout the rest of their lives.”
Formed in 2000, In-Sync Exotics maintains an extensive Community Outreach Program through which it educates the public on the unique attributes and characteristics of its residents; the realities of irresponsible and or illegal exotic wild animal ownership and captive breeding; and the need for stronger and enforceable legislation against those who abuse exotic wild animals.
“Our goal is to rescue mistreated and or displaced cats and provide them with a lifetime of excellent care is an expensive labor of love.” “It costs $168,000.00 a year to feed our animals and it can be upwards of another $150,000.00 for veterinarian care.” Plus, we have the added expenses for utilities, enrichment, equipment and supplies.
http://worldanimalnews.com/two-white-tigers-and-two-bears-rescued-thursday-already-find-new-homes/
© Copyright 2016 – WorldAnimalNews.com
Dec. 20, 2017 — Dear Friends,
Lamby arrived in Austin today, where she will be cared for by the good folks at Austin Pets Alive. Thanks to the efforts of many incredible people, she has another chance at life. This time, a happier one. Anyone who wishes to continue to follow her story can find updates here:
Thank you to Raine Devries and Jessica Brodsky, for standing up for Lamby, and for all the work you put in from the very beginning to save her! Thank you to all the attorneys, and city officials, and concerned citizens who got involved on her behalf. Thank you to Austin Pets Alive for being her safe harbor, and thank you all for your support and your help in saving Lamby!
Wishing you Happy Holidays,
Dee Dee
This petition made change with 168,062 supporters!
© 2017, Change.org, Inc.Certified B Corporation
Sean McCarthy
January 27, 2017
Running an animal sanctuary has its perks, namely, you get to hang out with adorable farm animals every day! But the job also comes with grave responsibilities and sometimes rescuers are forced to wade into horrifying situations in order to save animals in need.
The rescuers from Santuario Igualdad Interespecie, an animal sanctuary in Chile, encountered one of these shockingly brutal situations on their last rescue mission. They got a call about a fire on a sheep ranch and they immediately got in their car and made the two-hour drive. When they arrived, most of the sheep had perished in the fire and the 50 that survived had already been sent to the slaughter house. But undaunted, Santuario Igualdad’s team began to pick their way through the charred rubble in the hopes of finding some surviving sheep – and they did! Here is the story of the two surviving sheep Dorothy and Anne.
The rescue team arrived on to a hellish scene of scorched earth and smoke. The team began to look for survivors and discovered Dorothy huddled under a thicket of thorns.
Heroic Rescuers Two Save Sheep From a Fire
She was badly burned and incredibly weak so the rescuers put her in a wheelbarrow and rushed her back to the van for immediate medical attention.
Heroic Rescuers Two Save Sheep From a Fire
While they were returning to the van, they ran into Anne. She was so terrified by the fire, she attempted to run away from her would-be saviors.
Heroic Rescuers Two Save Sheep From a Fire
Santuario Igualidad’s team eventually caught up with here got both the sheep in the van and returned to the sanctuary to give them fluids and treat their burns.
These two brave sheep are currently being attended to by the sanctuary’s veterinarian and fighting to survive their horrific experience.
Heroic Rescuers Two Save Sheep From a Fire
They are getting the best medical care available, and lots of love from the people at the sanctuary.
Our thoughts are with these poor sheep and with Santuario Igualdad’s rockstar team of rescuers.
Heroic Rescuers Two Save Sheep From a Fire
Even though these sheep are in Chile, you can help them by donating to Santuario Igualdad Interespecie. Your donation will help to buy food, provide shelter, and give medical care to these sheep. You can also adopt one of these girls by sending them a monthly donation and ensuring that they are happy and safe for the rest of their lives.
Random stuff, but mostly about Guns, Freedom and Crappy Government..
From the Founder: Wildlife Conservation Film Festival
Following Jesus while Seeking Joy and Contentment in the Christian Life
DBA© 2BCreative since 2002
I have created this site to help people have fun in the kitchen. I write about enjoying life both in and out of my kitchen. Life is short! Make the most of it and enjoy!
The truth about the great wind power fraud - we're not here to debate the wind industry, we're here to destroy it.
Reading between the lines, and underneath the hype.
Mostly Stories about American Marines
Uncensored updates on world events, economics, the environment and medicine
The opinions expressed are those of the author. You go get your own opinions.
Est. 2012
See what the buzz is all about.
There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn’t true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true. —Soren Kierkegaard. "...truth is true even if nobody believes it, and falsehood is false even if everybody believes it. That is why truth does not yield to opinion, fashion, numbers, office, or sincerity--it is simply true and that is the end of it" - Os Guinness, Time for Truth, pg.39. “He that takes truth for his guide, and duty for his end, may safely trust to God’s providence to lead him aright.” - Blaise Pascal. "There is but one straight course, and that is to seek truth and pursue it steadily" – George Washington letter to Edmund Randolph — 1795. We live in a “post-truth” world. According to the dictionary, “post-truth” means, “relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief.” Simply put, we now live in a culture that seems to value experience and emotion more than truth. Truth will never go away no matter how hard one might wish. Going beyond the MSM idealogical opinion/bias and their low information tabloid reality show news with a distractional superficial focus on entertainment, sensationalism, emotionalism and activist reporting – this blogs goal is to, in some small way, put a plug in the broken dam of truth and save as many as possible from the consequences—temporal and eternal. "The further a society drifts from truth, the more it will hate those who speak it." – George Orwell “There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn’t true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true.” ― Soren Kierkegaard
Singing the praises of things that slip through the cultural cracks
Indian food and recipes
Vegan & Gluten-free inspired food | Green lifestyle
gehadsjourney.wordpress.com
"The Relentless Pursuit Of Common Sense"
Daily, News, Telegram, Bloggers, Views, Readers, Follower, Posts, Breaking,
...integrating Christian faith and knowledge in the public square
Metaphysical Mountain Climber, Mental Health Warrior and Mermaid Photographer
Take five y ‘all… Smok ‘em if ya got ‘em while we decry the audacity of the vulgarian insurgency
Fast opinions come and go. Here are the slow facts.
"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." ― Benjamin Franklin
Iowa Climate Change
Culture, Politics, Firearms, Education, Literature, Philosophy, Music, And Other Musings
Following in the spirit of Britain's Queen Boudica, Queen of the Iceni. A boudica.us site. I am an opinionator, do your own research, verification. Reposts, reblogs do not neccessarily reflect our views.
TRENDING ONLINE NEWS
with John W. Howell
Watching our environment ... our health ... and corporations ... exposing lies and corruption
A gathering of ‘Prager-like people’ seeking together to identify and clarify the issues challenging our contemporary America.
Badge, Gun, Attitude. Yep, I'm Ready. Don't like my opinions? Go away, read another blog.
navigation, survival, How to?, Money, Social Issues, Living
MY OPINIONS AND MUSINGS
Taking a Ride on Life's Journey
Providing recipes,articles & news of interest from around the world
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb...
A Globalization Of Kindness Toward All Living Beings
Psychic, Astrologist, & Blogger
A topnotch WordPress.com site
My Own Paradise: Life on Seven and a Half Acres
Learn • Explore • Grow
"OUR WORLD" 