Promoting veterinary support and raising awareness to protect animal welfare

The joint efforts of the entire community are key to ensuring animal welfare, which in turn enhances human welfare and helps prevent dangerous infectious diseases.

It is particularly critical to actively promote and support animal welfare awareness in highland areas and mountainous districts, where healthcare conditions are challenging. This will ensure that residents comprehend and implement these principles, taking responsibility for their pets and their community.

Founded in Vienna, Austria, in 1988, FOUR PAWS is an international animal welfare organization. FOUR PAWS attempts to assist creatures that are directly affected by humans through sustainable campaigns and initiatives. FOUR PAWS' animal welfare effort in Vietnam is the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary.

The sanctuary has effectively rescued 66 bears nationwide since its initial rescue in 2017. At present, it serves as an appropriate residence for 45 bears that were previously the victims of bear bile cultivation or illicit wildlife trade. The sanctuary has been conducting community awareness programs on animal welfare in addition to its rescue and animal care activities.

The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary organized an Animal Welfare Day on November 10, 2024, in collaboration with the People's Committee of Ky Phu Commune, Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province. The theme of the event was "Treating Animals with Compassion, Understanding, and Love." The objective of the event was to raise public awareness of the humane treatment of animals, ensure animal welfare, and connect residents with the sanctuary's positive animal activities.

The event consisted of three primary activities. The initial was veterinary care, which encompassed vaccinations and flea/tick removal for household pets to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases. Additionally, it provided advice on home care for canines and cats.

The second activity was educational, as it encouraged a passion for animals and encouraged a sense of responsibility for the preservation of biodiversity and animal life.

Finally, participants were able to indulge in different vegetarian specialties from the sanctuary's restaurant during the vegetarian culinary experience.

At the occasion, Mr. Bui Van Thuy, the Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People's Committee of Ky Phu Commune, stated, "This is a very significant activity that the sanctuary has organized in collaboration with Ky Phu Commune for the first time in 2024." It is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the enhancement of the quality of life for pets and to guarantee the safety and well-being of residents who own dogs and cats.

Mr. Tran Quoc Bao, Director of FOUR PAWS Vietnam, expressed gratitude to the local community and aspired to establish a green ecosystem that would significantly contribute to wildlife care and rescue, as well as ensure animal welfare. This would connect the stories of those who care for animals in Ninh Binh with friends around the world.

The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary established the groundwork for future programs that will further disseminate affection and care for household pets. This initiative was in collaboration with local authorities to increase awareness and educate the public about the health and welfare of pets.