This week we’ve launched an Anniversary Appeal to help sloth bears, like Digit, who suffered unimaginable cruelty before being rescued. We need animal lovers to help give rescued sloth bears the comfort, care and compassion they need this festive season.
Christmas is a symbolic moment for this appeal as both the first and last dancing bears in India were rescued in December. While the cruel trade ended 16 years ago, the bears saved from it, like the unforgettable Digit, still live with the scars of their past.
Digit was rescued in 2009 after being torn from the wild as a cub and prepared for life as a “dancing bear.” When he arrived, he had infected muzzle wounds and a rope still embedded in his snout. Thanks to our close partnership with Wildlife SOS, Digit is now a happy, playful bear who has recovered from the trauma of his early years. But caring for rescued bears is a lifelong commitment and we need your help more than ever.
Gifts to the Anniversary Appeal will be matched*, doubling the impact for bears who depend on safe sanctuary.
“Our teams of vets and caregivers are nothing short of guardian angels, they know every bear’s favourite food, every quirk, every fear, and they devote their lives to ensuring these animals feel safe, secure and loved. But we can’t do it without our supporters. Gifts to our Anniversary Appeal* will go twice as far to bring comfort and care to these beautiful bears. It truly means the world to them.” Alan Knight, IAR President
This Christmas, donations could provide treats, enrichment toys, or soft straw bedding to keep rescued bears warm during the colder months.
“The world is still a dangerous place for bears in India, but with your help, we will never stop fighting to keep them safe.” Please support Digit and the many other rescued bears today.
*Any gifts made before 19 December will be matched up to £13,000. – if you can donate anything from £1 upwards.