A year of hope and change for animals
Blog
The festive season is the perfect time to reflect on the incredible milestones you’ve helped us achieve for animals in 2024.
Because of your kindness and dedication, we’ve made strides in protecting animals and transforming the systems that cause them harm. Let’s celebrate some of these remarkable achievements, month by month:
January
Together, we celebrated the success of our global Wildlife Heritage Areas programme! Key habitats, including the Amazon Night Monkey Heritage Area in Peru, the Madeira Whale Heritage Area in Portugal, and the Apennines Marsican Bear Heritage Area in Italy, were officially recognised and protected. These areas promote responsible wildlife tourism while safeguarding extraordinary species and ecosystems.
February
The Elephant Ambulance team delivered critical medical care to elephants in remote areas of Laos. This month, they reached Champassak province, providing check-ups, emergency care, and training for mahouts to ensure elephants receive better ongoing care. Image is by World Animal Protection / Jittrapon Kaicome.
March
Major travel operators stepped up for animal welfare! easyJet Holidays and Jet2holidays announced policies to stop promoting harmful attractions like captive dolphin shows and zoos. These commitments are reducing the demand for cruel wildlife attractions and encouraging wildlife-friendly alternatives. Image is by Steven van Elk.
April
Copenhagen Fashion Week became the first major event to ban all wild animal products. Following last year’s fur ban, items like crocodile and snake skins, as well as ostrich and peacock feathers, were excluded from the runway. This cruelty-free milestone was achieved through our partnership with Collective Fashion Justice.
May
Australian animal lovers rejoiced as the government committed to ending the live sheep export trade by 2028, sparing millions of sheep from long, harrowing journeys to slaughter. This decision is a direct result of years of campaigning and your unwavering support.
June
Chinh, a bear rescued from a bile farm in Vietnam, settled into his new home at the Four Paws sanctuary. After 20 years in captivity, he now enjoys the freedom to roam, bask in the sun, and splash in his pool. Image is by Four Paws.
And there's more...
July
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Australia banned harmful ‘koala cuddles,’ switching to ‘koala close-up’ experiences that prioritise education and animal welfare. Image is by Nomad Asaurus.
August
Animal advocates like you joined forces in Berlin to urge TUI to stop selling tickets to cruel dolphin and whale entertainment venues. This united effort amplified the call for ethical tourism.
September
Our partner JAAN successfully rescued 31 abused dancing monkeys from Indonesia’s last ‘training centre.’ These macaques are now safe and beginning their journey toward recovery. Image is by JAAN.
October
Xamã, the first male jaguar rehabilitated and released into the Amazon biome, made history. Rescued as a cub from a forest fire, he’s now thriving in the wild, where he truly belongs. Image is by Oncafari Rewild.
November
Two tapirs, Melancia and Valente, began their rehabilitation after devastating fires in Brazil. Thanks to you, they’re receiving the care they need to heal and prepare for life in the wild. Image is by Onçafari Rewild.
December
The Wildlife Not Medicine movement reached new heights. Over 6,200 doctors pledged to avoid wildlife ingredients in treatments, and 131,000 people committed to choosing herbal substitutes. This growing shift wouldn’t have been possible without your support. Image is by Fernando Carniel Machado / World Animal Protection.
Your compassion is transforming lives, ecosystems, and attitudes worldwide. Thank you for standing with us this year – and every year. We can’t wait to see the change we’ll create together in 2025.
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