ISLAMABAD: In a heartening display of collaborative effort, the Four Paws team has completed a series of crucial medical interventions to improve the lives of several bears under the care of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB).

The joint team of the IWMB and Four Paws carried out veterinary checks, including essential castrations, on the final three bears residing in the rescue centre.

Among them, Baloo underwent treatment for a wound on his neck and underwent dental surgery to address inflammation and abscess issues, resulting in the removal of three teeth, including a canine and two incisors. Daboo, fortunately, showed no dental issues but bore the unfortunate scars of having his ears cropped at a very young age.

Cukoo’s dental surgery was tricky with approximately five teeth requiring extraction due to complications arising from illegal captivity as a dancing bear, where the improper removal of roots led to frequent inflammation and abscesses. All three bears also received essential vaccinations, anti-parasitic treatments, microchipping, claw trimming, and castrations to ensure their well-being.

Four Paws team performs dental procedures, provides essential vaccination to several rescued animals

In another development, the female bear Anila received vital veterinary attention on Friday. In addition to treating an open wound and removing a bothersome metal ring causing irritation and infection, Anila underwent a comprehensive medical examination, including an ultrasound, and received essential vaccinations as well as microchips.

“Following her surgery, Anila is recuperating well and will soon join fellow bears Ladoo and Barfi in her new enclosure, complete with comfortable straw bedding,” Dr Amir Khalil, who is team leader of Four Paws, told Dawn on Sunday.

On Saturday, the team executed medical procedures on four additional bears: male bears Teddy, Makra, and Ladoo, along with female bear Barfi. The males underwent castrations and dental work.

“Meanwhile, Barfi received a critical dental procedure, removing two canines and two incisors, ensuring her continued health and comfort. Like their counterparts, all four bears received comprehensive veterinary assessments, including ultrasounds, vaccinations, anti-parasite treatments, microchipping, claw trimming, and dental care. Some of these bears had to undergo life-saving procedures to ensure their good health,” said Dr Amir Khalil.

Dr Amir Khalil appreciated the dedicated efforts of his team and IWMB rescue centre professionals. “These treated bears are now thriving post-procedure, embodying the promise of a brighter future for animals in need,” he said.

Chairperson of Islamabad Wildlife Management Board Rina Saeed Khan said, “The bears are now getting the best treatment in the world.”

The global animal welfare organisation Four Paws had returned to Pakistan on April 5, upon urgent request of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board.

A team of Four Paws veterinarians and wildlife experts will support the Pakistani wildlife authorities with the veterinary treatment and neutering of eight resident bears, as well as the planned rescue and relocation of new confiscated bears from bear baiting, dancing, and breeding activities.

Four Paws maintained that the cruel practices violated local animal welfare regulations and caused massive animal suffering. In cooperation with the Pakistani government, Four Paws aimed to end illegal bear-keeping practices in the country.

Published in Dawn, April 8th, 2024