For over 200 years, bears were used as bait and as performers in Pakistan. Cubs were violently taken from the wild; their teeth were broken, their claws torn out, nose rings forced through tender skin. Some were made to "dance" in agony; others were tethered and attacked by dogs in illegal baiting arenas.
Since 1997, World Animal Protection has worked alongside our local partner, the Bioresource Research Centre (BRC), to shut down bear baiting in Pakistan. With stronger laws in place and fewer events being held, along with our supporters, we have achieved what once seemed impossible: a future without bears used for entertainment.
Right now, over 65 bears rescued from lives of pain are safe at Balkasar Sanctuary. They cannot go back to the wild. Most are too injured, too traumatised, or too old. But at the sanctuary, they’re finally safe—and slowly rediscovering what it means to live without fear.
Your gift could provide daily food, medical care, and shelter for the bears who survived cruelty. It could also help stop the last pockets of bear baiting that continue in secret—and protect bears still at risk.
Used in bear baiting. Found with old fractures, joint damage, and likely had her teeth shattered and claws torn out as a cub. She now walks with a limp and needs daily care—but at the sanctuary, Kainat swims, rests in the shade, and finally lives in comfort.
Used in bear dancing and baiting. He spent his days tied outside, exposed to the harsh sun, wind, and rain with little shelter. He was underweight and bruised when surrendered, and taken to Balkasar sanctuary for care. Now, still shy and sometimes restless, he’s slowly healing—finding comfort in quiet moments, fresh grass, and his favourite roti.
Used for dancing and forced to perform up to four times a week. After enduring this cruelty, Maya was finally surrendered by her owner to Balkasar sanctuary, where she was sedated by the team to remove the ring and rope from her nose. She now lives a happy life where she can lie out in the sun on the grass and munch on her favourite food – dried fruit treats!
We will use your donation where the need is greatest to protect animals, like those featured in this appeal, from cruelty and suffering.
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