In the heart of Vietnam, a group of Asian bears, known as moon bears for the distinctive white patch on their chest, explore with curiosity their new home.
These animals, who suffered years of confinement in narrow cages and were subjected to bile extraction for traditional medicine, now enjoy a safe environment and comprehensive rehabilitation.
The impact of recovery programs
Thanks to the work of veterinarians and conservationists, the bears receive physical and psychological treatments, addressing the consequences of their captivity.
Medical evaluations have identified issues such as:
- Liver, kidney, and gallbladder damage due to invasive methods.
- Severe malnutrition, resulting from inadequate diets.
- Psychological disorders, such as repetitive movements due to chronic stress.
The end of a cruel practice against moon bears
The extraction of bear bile, used in traditional medicine, became popular in North Korea, China, and Vietnam starting in the 1970s.
Although Vietnam banned this practice in 2005, thousands of bears remained in captivity, and many continued to be illegally exploited.
Since 2008, with the establishment of specialized sanctuaries, authorities have rescued over 600 individuals, offering them a future free from abuse.
Rehabilitation and veterinary advancements
The rescued bears undergo a gradual recovery process, which includes:
- Initial quarantine, allowing their first contact with open spaces.
- Balanced diets, with fruits, vegetables, and supplements.
- Socialization and exploration programs, tailored to their behavior.
Furthermore, innovative medical techniques have been developed, such as:
- Endodontics, to address dental issues.
- Gallbladder surgeries, eliminating chronic infections.
- Physiotherapy, restoring lost mobility.
The future of conservation in Vietnam
While the bile extraction industry has significantly decreased, there are still 177 bears in captivity.
To complete the eradication of this practice, Animals Asia opened a new sanctuary in Bach Ma, with the capacity to shelter and rehabilitate the remaining individuals.
This advancement marks a turning point in the history of animal conservation, demonstrating that with infrastructure, commitment, and appropriate legislation, it is possible to change realities and offer second chances.
Cover photo by Animals Asia
