Across the world, animals are suffering – and Asia is no exception but I would like to show you that a small change for animal welfare is happening

https://youtu.be/foFNF7SUmik?si=0EnTukhfC_WBNTqw  This is what I mean from a life in misery and pain to freedom!!  www.animalsasia.org

In each cage a bear stolen from the wild some of the bears live 30 years in this horrific situation

While many people and local organisations care deeply for animals and inspire transformative change, certain traditional practices and industries continue to cause immense harm.

Many bears have to survive in very small rusty cages. 

In parts of Asia, some animals are still used in medicine, sold in brutal meat markets, or kept in poor conditions for entertainment.

Others are taken from the wild or the streets and denied the chance to live naturally and safely. These issues are complex, often rooted in history, poverty or lack of awareness.

Animals Asia works hand-in-hand with governments, local communities and grassroots groups to address the most urgent forms of animal suffering

What is bear bile farming?

Bear bile farming is the industrial exploitation of bears for their bile – a digestive fluid used in traditional Asian medicine. More than 10,000 bears, mostly moon bears but also sun and brown bears, are trapped in this cruel trade across Asia.

We’ve rescued bears in cages so small they couldn’t turn around or stand on all fours. Most are confined this way as cubs and can survive up to 30 years, suffering decades of physical pain and psychological trauma.

Bear rescues

Animals Asia has rescued over 270 bears from bile farms across Vietnam – each rescue the result of collaboration with government authorities, local enforcement agencies, traditional medicine practitioners and local communities.

We identify bears in need, negotiate their release, and carry out complex rescues. We transport each rescued bear safely to our sanctuaries, where their new lives begin.

Our approach is built on cooperation, not confrontation. We engage directly with bear farmers, listening with empathy and offering practical support.

Why does bear farming continue?

Despite bans in countries like Vietnam and Laos, bear bile farming continues due to demand and inconsistent law enforcement. Legal loopholes allow the practice to masquerade as pet ownership, and enforcement agencies are overstretched and under-resourced. In China, where the practice is still legal, farms operate on an industrial scale.

What is bear bile used for?

Bear bile contains ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), and is used to treat liver and gall bladder issues. It’s also found in other traditional remedies, cosmetics and even wine and toothpaste. 

https://www.animalsasia.org/celebrities-unite-to-help-free-the-final-bears-in-vietnam/

MEET THE BEARS IN THE SANCTUARIES

https://www.animalsasia.org/our-work/bear-sanctuaries/

Bear rescues

Animals Asia has rescued over 270 bears from bile farms across Vietnam – each rescue the result of collaboration with government authorities, local enforcement agencies, traditional medicine practitioners and local communities.

We identify bears in need, negotiate their release, and carry out complex rescues. We transport each rescued bear safely to our sanctuaries, where their new lives begin.

Our approach is built on cooperation, not confrontation. We engage directly with bear farmers, listening with empathy and offering practical support.

Education and awareness

Animals Asia’s education programs reach schools, universities and communities where bile farming once thrived. In areas like Phung Thuong – a bear bile farming stronghold – our outreach has led to visible shifts in attitudes and public support for bear welfare.

We run workshops, bear-themed events and interactive lessons designed to teach empathy and environmental responsibility. Thousands of students across Vietnam have participated and brought the message home to their families.

We also run national public awareness campaigns. These include billboard campaigns, social media outreach, and media partnerships with local celebrities and influencers. Student groups and NGOs partner with us to amplify this message across Vietnam.