NEWS ARCHIVE

Our updates, press releases, blog posts, rescues, publications and other news – month by month

November 2024

Our updates and stories of November

Elephant Madhubala in Pakistan

Rescue Elephant Madhubala

The last captive elephant in a zoo in Pakistan begins a new chapter as she is reunited with her family


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Cows arriving on boat in Isreal

How Do We Fix Global Food Systems?

Better funding for better farming


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Stray cat eating food in Beirut

Lebanon: FOUR PAWS Provides Urgent Help for Starving Stray Animals and Shelters

Ongoing conflicts have left thousands of cats and dogs homeless and in need of lifesaving help


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Stray cat in the ruins of destroyed buildings in Beirut, Lebanon.

Emergency Help for Stray Animals in Lebanon

Help us provide essential food and medical supplies to vulnerable animals caught in a conflict zone


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Group of lions and tigers laying in the grass

Breaking the Vicious Cycle of the Big Cat Industry in South Africa

New FOUR PAWS report reveals how criminal networks profit off fragmented regulations


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Male and female lions behind fence

South Africa’s Out-Of-Control Big Cat Industry - And How to Tackle It

FOUR PAWS’ new report examines the country’s involvement in the commercial exploitation, legal and illegal trade of big cat species


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Cow in factory farming

Our Positions on COP29

Lowering emissions through animal welfare and warning against false solutions


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 In the Luangta Maha Bua Temple in Thailand, the Buddhist monks are keeping around 147 tigers which they treat as "pets": visitors can have their picture taken with the animals at a high price, pet them and even lead them around on a leash

FOUR PAWS Advocates for Animal-Friendly Adventures

Encouraging travellers to make conscious choices for animal welfare these holidays


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DETHRONED movie premiere poster

DETHRONED Online Screening

"When a king falls, his kingdom trembles" – join and stream the film with us online!


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Close up of Lion Diego

FOUR PAWS Rescues Traumatised Lion From Slovakia

After years of inappropriate keeping, lion Diego will find a new home in the Netherlands at FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary


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Dog at a Christmas market

Stress-Free Throughout the Pre-Christmas Period

Tips for keeping your dog calm and safe in a hectic and crowded place


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Dog Gamora and her new owner Michael at the beach

FOUR PAWS Urges Compassion for All Living Beings on World Kindness Day

Practical Tips on How to #LiveKinder for Animals, People, and the Planet


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Dog Maximoff enjoys his first walk on a beach

Summer Pet Care: Keeping Your Animals Safe and Healthy

FOUR PAWS shares expert advice for pet owners during the hot summer months


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OCTOBER 2024

Our updates and stories of October

Dog frightened by fireworks going off in the background

How to Keep your Pets Safe During Global Firework Celebrations

FOUR PAWS shares essential tips for pet owners ahead of Diwali and Guy Fawkes Day


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 A dog in a home in Cape Town in South Africa

FOUR PAWS launches mass sterilisation drive in the WC

Animal Welfare Organisations Collaborate to Help Communities in need with Sustainable Animal Population Control


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Pictured is Aaron Gekoski, Fiona Miles, Kajal Bagwandeen, Damian Antochewich, and Will Foster-Grundy

New Documentary Film About Big Cats: When a King Falls, His Kingdom Trembles

TERRA MATER STUDIOS, FOUR CORNERS FILM AND PHOTOGRAPHY, in association with FOUR PAWS International, present "Dethroned" 


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Campaign about live lamb cutting (mulesing) as part of the WiK program

Australia: Failure of world’s biggest wool industry to protect 140 million lambs sparks global campaign

New FOUR PAWS report reveals 20 years of ignoring mutilations by the Australian wool industry


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Some young lambs running and playing

Over 20 years of Broken Promises

FOUR PAWS Urges South African Designers to Choose Ethical Wool during SA Fashion Week  


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FOUR PAWS in South Africa gathered outside the Parliament Buildings in Cape Town, South Africa

FOUR PAWS holds significant gathering outside of Parliament

FOUR PAWS hands over Memorandum of Pertinent Issues in Respect of the State of Animal Welfare in South Africa


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Charley the elephant at his adaptation enclosure at Shambala Private Game Reserve

Rescue Elephant Duma (Charley)

Retiring an elephant from captivity: How elephant Charley became elephant Duma


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World Animal Day: Help “Bring Animals to Parliament”

Join FOUR PAWS in Advocating for Animal Welfare at the “Bring Animals to Parliament” Gathering


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September 2024

Our updates and stories of September

Charley the elephant at his adaptation enclosure at Shambala Private Game Reserve

Rescue Elephant Duma (Charley)

Retiring an elephant from captivity: How elephant Charley became elephant Duma


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World Animal Day: Help “Bring Animals to Parliament”

Join FOUR PAWS in Advocating for Animal Welfare at the “Bring Animals to Parliament” Gathering


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SAC action in South Africa

Responsible Pet Ownership is crucial in reducing the rise in Rabies cases

FOUR PAWS South Africa highlights the urgent need to address the rabies crisis


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Cub petting

How to Travel Responsibly in South Africa

FOUR PAWS promotes ethical tourism for animal welfare through #LiveKinder campaign


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Some young lambs running and playing

Over 20 years of Broken Promises

FOUR PAWS Urges South African Designers to Choose Ethical Wool during SA Fashion Week  


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Recipe Tofu Sticks with BBQ Salsa

Enjoy the benefits of plant-based braai swaps

FOUR PAWS encourage South Africans to enjoy plant-based braai options


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Pigs Factory Farming

One Health Congress

Animal welfare as part of the One Health approach to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR)


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Pictured is Lion Simba at LIONSROCK

Bring Animal Welfare to Parliament Gathering

FOUR PAWS invites YOU to attend the first of its kind as part of our #LiveKinder movement.


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Release of Elephant Charley to outdoor enclosure at Shambala Private Reserve

Elephant Charley for the first time feels the African savanna

To prepare the 42-year-old tusker for an independent life in the wild, he is receiving special care and a rich diet of vegetables, fruits, hey and branches to gain weight


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Lion Romeo at LIONSROCK

Rescue Lion Romeo

When your only purpose in life is to entertain others


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August 2024

Our updates and stories of August

Tiger Snow in Slovakia

Rescue Tigers Snow and Sky

From private keeping in Slovakia to the skies of South Africa


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Charley entering his adaption enclosure at Shambala Private Game Reserve

South Africa: Freedom for Charley the elephant

FOUR PAWS and EMS Foundation collaborate to transition Charley after decades of work, to retirement at Shambala Private Game Reserve. 


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Tiger Sky being released at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary

FOUR PAWS Rescue: Tiger cubs arrive safely at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary

Snow and Sky can now recover at their new South African forever home from their prior cruel keeping in Slovakia


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Max Mara goes fur free

Max Mara Fashion Group announces to go fur-free

FOUR PAWS and other NGOs are applauding the company’s decision


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Man with a sheep - symbolic image for the Wear it Kind Brand Directory

FOUR PAWS Rates Over 200 Fashion Brands, Revealing Massive Shortcomings in Animal Welfare

South Africans among those who participated in a global YouGov poll rating fashion brands animal welfare 


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Woman with a fox - symbolic image for the Wear it Kind Directory

The Wear It Kind Directory

See how your favourite brands rate regarding four key animal welfare issues!


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JuLY 2024

Our updates and stories of July

Dog Shadow (left), rescued from a dog meat slaughter at her new foster home

Why Should You Become A Fosterer

FOUR PAWS wants to encourage communities to foster pets


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International Tiger Day

International Tiger Day 2024

FOUR PAWS highlights crisis facing tigers in South Africa


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factory farming

The Atlas Challenge

The FOUR PAWS food industry rankings towards animal protein reduction


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Savannah Cat that almost looks like a serval

Hybrid Cats – Problematic Exotic Breeds

What you should know about domestic cats mixed with wild cats


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Food delivery services

Food Delivery Services

How does your favourite food delivery service compare?


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Mandela Day handover of 67 kennels and care packages  with Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayaletsha

67 Kennels of Hope: Help dog in need!

FOUR PAWS announces donation of 67 kennels 


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Dairy cows in a stable in Germany

World Zoonoses Day 2024

FOUR PAWS urges South Africans to change the way we interact with animals and nature, it’s only a matter of time until the next pandemic happens


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Lambs standing in a field

Introducing the Term ‘Live Lamb Cutting’ to Replace Mulesing

FOUR PAWS alongside leading animal protection groups are calling on brands, industry stakeholders, politicians and the public to adopt the term


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Big cattle farm for meat production

Meat Exhaustion Day

Meat is eating up the planet


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June 2024

Our updates and stories of June

Tiger mural in New York

Creating Art for Animal Advocacy

FOUR PAWS partners with artist Sonny Sundancer to paint a tiger mural in New York City


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Dog and cat meat trade investigation in Vietnam

Highway to Hell

An investigation into the illegal trade of dogs and cats through Ha Tinh province, Vietnam


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Next gen mycelium materials on display at the ISPO conference in Munich

Fashion Forward: Next Generation Materials

Next generation materials are both animal friendly and strive for sustainability


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The office dogs Yogi and Bubu at the FOUR PAWS Austria office

Dogs in the Office: Take Your Dog to Work Day

Tips and tricks for a healthy working relationship with your canine colleague 


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Orangutan Tegar IND 2017

World Rainforest Day: Save the Orangutans of Borneo

Help FOUR PAWS ensure a peaceful future for orangutans


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May 2024

Our updates and stories of May

Bear Chinh in his cage on the bile farm

Rescue Bear Chinh

Abused for his bile over and over again, poor Chinh's suffering has finally come to an end


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Lions Nikola and Vasalyna at LIONSROCK

FOUR PAWS Responses to SA Public Consultations

Feedback and recommendations on a number of public consultations, policy documents and positions, related to the protection of big cats in South Africa


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Lion Romeo at LIONSROCK

FOUR PAWS Transfers Former Circus Lion to LIONSROCK

White lion Romeo was exploited for circus shows in France until his rescue in 2023


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The State of Animal Welfare Address Panel

FOUR PAWS Delivers Its First State of Animal Welfare Address

FOUR PAWS seeks to inform stakeholders about the current state of Animal Welfare in South Africa


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Lions Nikola and Vasylyna at LIONSROCK in South Africa

Rescued Lion Couple to Their Forever Home in South Africa

Nikola and Vasylyna were found roaming the streets after escaping private captivity


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Ghenges & Khan lionesses

Tips for a Loving Mother's Day

Animal-friendly Mother's Day ideas that come from the heart


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April 2024

Our updates and stories of April

Cat at a free vaccination drive in Hoi An, VietnamCat at a free vaccination drive in Hoi An, Vietnam

FOUR PAWS in Hoi An, Vietnam

A 2-Year Journey Towards a Dog and Cat Meat-Free City


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Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS in South Africa delivers a presentation about the big cat trade to the IFP at Parliament in Cape Town South Africa

Moving In The Right Direction: One step closer to ending the commercial trade of big cats

Fiona Miles, Director at FOUR PAWS in South Africa presented at the Inkatha Freedom Party’s discussion on the crucial topic of Captive Lion Breeding in South Africa


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Male lion behind rusted fence

One step closer to ending the commercial trade of big cats

FOUR PAWS commends the South African government and specifically the DFFE 


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Black bear in sanctuary in Islamabad, Pakistan

Emergency Help for Bears in Pakistan

In cooperation with the local wildlife authorities, our team are making necessary adaptations to enclosures in the hope that we will rescue bear cubs


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FOUR PAWS team and black bears in a Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Islamabad, Pakistan

Pakistan: FOUR PAWS Helps Bears Cruelly Exploited for Baiting and Dancing

Swift government action aims to end illegal bear keeping practices in the country


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Stray dog in Kosovo

22% of South Africa's stray animals are without a home

FOUR PAWS has been helping strays in need for 25 years with veterinary care and community programs


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Cat in the grass

Beware of Ticks!

Caution helps to protect dogs and cats


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Child with a lamb

How to Wear it Kind

A shopping guide for compassion in fashion by FOUR PAWS


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March 2024

Our updates and stories of March

Train tigers at LIONSROCK

FOUR PAWS Rescueversary: Another year of tranquil living

FOUR PAWS Rapid Response Rescue team visits LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary to witness their progress two years after their rescue 


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Two shelter staff members with rescued dog

Caring for Dogs Rescued from the Dog Meat Trade

When 61 dogs were put into our care practically overnight, two of our amazing staff members came to their rescue.


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Lamb mortality footage from Australia published by CFJ

The silent misery: Ten million Australian lambs die every year for fashion

Shocking new footage reveals appalling lamb mortality rate in Australia 


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A newborn lamb next to its mother

Lamb Mortality and Live Lamb Cutting (Mulesing)

Help to end the suffering of millions of Australian lambs used for fashion


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February 2024

Our updates and stories of February

Release of the Sudan lions at LIONSROCK

Rescue Sudan Lions

A journey from conflict to sanctuary 


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Kajal Bagwandeen becomes FOUR PAWS Ambassador

South African actress Kajal Bagwandeen has become a FOUR PAWS Ambassador! 


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Group of stray dogs

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering of animals

FOUR PAWS advocates for spaying and neutering of animals as a proven means of saving the lives of companion animals


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Arrival and release of Sudan Lions to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary

Rescued Sudan lions find new home in South Africa

FOUR PAWS transfers eleven lions to its LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary 


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Five dogs rescued from a Cambodian slaughterhouse arrive at Cape Town International Airport

Cambodia Dog Rescue #FromCagetoCapeTown

FOUR PAWS South Africa in collaboration with TEARS Animal Rescue facilitate cross-border adoption (CBA) campaign of 5 rescued dogs from Cambodia


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Broiler Chicken Farm

FOUR PAWS alarmed by dangerous bird flu mutation

Possible mammal-to-mammal infection poses a threat to wildlife and raises concerns about a new human pandemic 


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Fox on a fur farm

Real Fur: Fashion Brand Max Mara Lags Behind

Max Mara is one of the last international fashion brands continuing to sell real fur


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Two dogs at a lake

Bathing fun for dogs

Water safety tips for dog swimming


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January 2024

Our updates and stories of January

Dog’s Shadow, Falcon and Maximoff enjoy their first walk on a beach by Tears staff in Cape Town in South Africa.

From Cage to Cape Town

Could you be their forever home? 


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Unsplash photo used in Atlas report on hotels

Climate Crisis not on vacation

New FOUR PAWS industry ranking calls on Hilton, Marriott & Co. to improve animal welfare 


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A cow at a farm in Stellenbosch, South Africa

World Environmental Education Day

FOUR PAWS remind us how interconnected animal welfare, human health and the well-being of the environment are


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9 lions and three-legged hyena from Dinder National Park (evacuated from Sudan Animal Rescue in November 2023)

Rescued from conflict zones twice: Lions and hyenas from Sudan on the way to safety

FOUR PAWS recently evacuated nearly 50 wild animals from war-torn Khartoum


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Fox on a fur farm in Poland

Interview with SLAY Director Rebecca Cappelli

Interview with SLAY documentary director Rebecca Cappelli on the heartbreaking reality of animal cruelty in fashion


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Dog Apollo

From Cage to California

Dogs saved from Cambodian dog meat trade, take 'Freedom Flights' to U.S. for Adoption


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December 2023

Our updates and stories of December

Dog afraid of fireworks

Fireworks and Firecrackers Pose Danger to Animals and Environment

Animal welfare organisation calls for responsible New Year’s celebrations without fireworks


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Dairy farm barn/stable in with cattle/cows in the Netherlands, 2018.

COP28: First ever Global Stocktake fails the road to 1.5 °C

FOUR PAWS concerned as role of food systems and animal welfare are neglected


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Guests walking with lions and handlers

#TravelKind on holiday and make sure animals don’t suffer in silence

FOUR PAWS: Seemingly harmless interactions are often problematic 


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Dog Hexe confined in a car

FOUR PAWS’ Summer Pet Care Tips

Take a look at our essential tips to keep your pet happy, healthy, and protected over the summer


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Food on the table at COP28 in the UAE-Dubai

Food on the table at COP28 in the UAE-Dubai

An OP-ED by Celiwe Shivambu, Campaign Officer, FOUR PAWS in South Africa attending the COP28 as an Observer for FOUR PAWS International


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FOUR PAWS and Hoi An People's Committee have closed down a dog meat restaurant

Dog Meat Restaurant Closes in Vietnam

FOUR PAWS and Hoi An People’s Committee successfully worked together to end Dog and Cat Meat Trade


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November 2024

Our updates and stories of November

Pig farm

COP28 Marks Key Point for Climate Actions

FOUR PAWS urges a change in global food systems to prevent climate catastrophe as Global Stocktake establishes future course


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Woman with goats

Fashion Follows Trends: Animal Protection Still Not a Mainstream Piece

FOUR PAWS analysis of 100 major brands exposes critical gaps and poor performers in animal welfare


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Starving lions in Sudan

FOUR PAWS Rescues Nearly 50 Wild Animals Trapped in Conflict Zone in Sudan

Starving lions, hyenas, and wildcats were relocated to temporary safe space


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Fireworks and pets

Safeguard your pets during the worldwide firework celebrations

Global animal welfare organisation shares tips for pet owners ahead of Guy Fawkes Day and Diwali


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October 2023

Our updates and stories of October

Dog in a cage at a slaughterhouse

16,462 People Join Virtual 'Run For Millions' to End the Dog and Cat Meat Trade

The event was held across Vietnam and organised by global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS


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Bear Na on her way to BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh

20 Years of Suffering: FOUR PAWS Rescues Former Bile Bear

Without increased action, Vietnam’s remaining bile bears will continue to suffer and slowly die


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A Global Stand Against the Dog and Cat Meat Trade!

A Global Stand Against the Dog and Cat Meat Trade!

Two Million Signatures show immense support to end the dog and cat meat trade worldwide


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Elephant Madhubala

Ailing Elephant Madhubala in Desperate Need of a New Home

FOUR PAWS gave recommendations over a month ago but officials lack an answer


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September 2023

Our updates and stories of September

Sheep

400 International Fashion Brands oppose cruel wool

FOUR PAWS advocates for animal welfare at high-level industry event in Northern Italy


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Stray puppies in Southeast Asia

World Rabies Day 2023

FOUR PAWS supports Vietnamese authorities with rabies vaccination drive


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Poultry in a slaughterhouse

2.6 million Birds Die in South Africa

The severe bird flu outbreak is causing the South African government to encourage farmers to step up biosecurity measures


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LIONSROCK general tourism image

Explore FOUR PAWS’ Digital Animal Friendly Wildlife Travel Guide

FOUR PAWS South Africa celebrates World Tourism Day with a digital animal friendly wildlife travel guide


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Uniondale Sterilisation Drive

FOUR PAWS Partners with PDSA in Successful Sterilisation Drive

The project team successfully took on the challenge to sterilise more than 450 needy animals in Uniondale in the Little Karoo


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August 2023

Our updates and stories of August

July 2023

Our updates and stories of July

Dog in cage victim of hte dog meat trade

Infamous Animal Market in Indonesia Has Stopped Selling Dog and Cat Meat

Market was a “ticking timebomb” for a future pandemic


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dogs in a cage

Animal Welfare Groups Host Reception on Sustainable Development at UN Economic and Social Council

Accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development a key topic for the group


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Taming Fashion: Choosing Kindness in the Fashion Industry

Choosing Kindness in the Fashion Industry

FOUR PAWS’ new report reveals true costs for animals and climate and future-fit alternatives to fur and other animal-derived materials  


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#ProtectMillions

FOUR PAWS Calls Upon the US and UK to #ProtectMillions

Today, global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS launched its most ambitious campaign action yet, to end the dog and cat meat trade in Vietnam


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Boiler Chickens

FOUR PAWS Spotlights Zoonotic Diseases in SA

If we don’t change the way we interact with animals and nature, it is just a matter of time until the next pandemic happens


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Two lion cubs being stroked by guest

DFFE White Paper on the Conservation and Sustainable Use does not go far enough to protect the country’s wildlife species

FOUR PAWS position on the newly released Department for Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment White Paper on the Conservation and Sustainable use of South Africa’s Biodiversity   


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June 2023

Our updates and stories of June

Male and female lions behind fence

Man arrested for illegally transporting lion bones from SA

FOUR PAWS warns of exploitative big cat industry that cruelly profits off big cats and the trading of their parts. 


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Lions and tigers at a farm in South Africa

Paid Interactions Fuel Exploitative Big Cat Farming in South Africa

FOUR PAWS warns of tourist attractions that cruelly profit off big cats


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Lioness Vasylyna at FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary

Lioness from Illegal Private Keeping Arrives at Species-Appropriate Home

FOUR PAWS brings lioness Vasylyna to its FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary in the Netherlands


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May 2023

Our updates and stories of May

Critical tiger rescue in Argentina

Critical Tiger Rescue in Argentina

FOUR PAWS en route to bring two tigers rescued from illegal breeding farm to wildlife sanctuary in Jordan


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Rebecca Picallo Gil, FOUR PAWS mulesing campaigner

Global Fashion Companies Publicly Call on the Australian Wool Industry to End Mulesing

FOUR PAWS hands over open brand letter to Australian wool industry


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Cows and calves in the pasture

Mother’s Day: Chocolate companies show no sweetness to dairy cows and calves

FOUR PAWS ranks Mars, Nestlé & Co. with regards to dairy reduction strategies


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Factory farmed cows

FOUR PAWS new report on Earth Day: Meat is “eating up the planet”

Europe has surpassed the bearable meat consumption already by April


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Lion Simba Romania

Phasing out the controversial captive lion industry. Two years on.

Two years later, the South Africa Government still hasn't phased out the captive lion breeding industry


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April 2023

Our updates and stories of April

MArch 2023

Our updates and stories of March

Campaign to end the dog and cat meat trade

Campaigners and A-List Actors Celebrate as Jakarta Bans Dog Meat Trade

Authorities ban trade to tackle rabies and animal cruelty


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Indonesian Capital City Jakarta Bans Dog Meat Trade

Indonesian Capital City Jakarta Bans Dog Meat Trade

A-List Hollywood actors alongside global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS celebrate “watershed” moment in the campaign to end the dog meat trade in Southeast Asia


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February 2023

Our updates and stories of February

Covid 19 and Minks

Pandemic Treaty draft “Lacks Teeth”, says FOUR PAWS

WHO publishes its latest draft of the “Pandemic Treaty”


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Cow with calf

Fashion industry & FOUR PAWS work to relieve suffering

FOUR PAWS in South Africa recently releases a new report on the suffering of animals for the fashion industry. 


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January 2023

Our updates and stories of January

Romana Kőnigsbrun (Austrian Ambassador to SA), Carsten Hertwig (Director FOUR PAWS Sustainable Sanctuaries), Josef Pfabigan (CEO of FOUR PAWS), Hildegard Pirker (Sanctuary Manager: LIONSROCK), and Fiona Miles (Director: FOUR PAWS South Africa) reopen LIONSROCK accomodation in Bethlehem in South Africa

New look LIONSROCK rocks ethical vision

LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in the Free State has undergone a transformation and was officially re-opened on Friday 6 January


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December 2022

Our updates and stories of December

Bear Mark at BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach

Albania’s Last Restaurant Bear Arrives in Austria

With bear Mark’s rescue, FOUR PAWS closed a chapter of cruel animal keeping in Albania


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 Lions from the Golden Pride in their enclosure shortly after being released

Government asked to step up ending captive breeding implementation process

Animal welfare organisation calls on government to urgently take proactive measures to end the captive lion breeding industry


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November 2022

Our updates and stories of November

Factory farmed dairy cows

Need for Climate Action on Agricultural and Food Security Recognised at COP27

FOUR PAWS welcomes this as a starting point but insists more needs to be done at a UN level to tackle the climate emergency


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Factory farmed pigs

COP27 Failed to Address the Problem of Food Systems to Avert Climate Crisis

FOUR PAWS urges governments to prioritise food systems to meet global climate targets


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Rescued lions Kandaka and Mansour

Sudanese Lions Will Receive Medical Care in Al Ma’Wa, Jordan

FOUR PAWS successfully transfers two big cats after two years of preparations


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Shelter dog enjoying session with trainer

FOUR PAWS Launches Online Animal Shelter Training Programme

Programme provides free online training for animal shelters


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Tiger lying on the ground

CITES CoP19: FOUR PAWS Calls for Better Protection of Big Cats

Demands include phasing out all tiger farms, and imposing trade sanctions on governments that contravene CITES Decisions


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#GoldenPride Release

FOUR PAWS takes over ten lions after non-compliance

Animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS takes over ten lions from provincial authorities after a compliance notice was issued to a Gauteng breeding facility


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South Africa | 2021 10 | Investigation into Big Cat keeping in South Africa.

Report confirms captive big cat industry is a conduit

Animal welfare organisation says report on South Africa’s brutal lion bone trade confirms legal captive big cat industry is a conduit for illegal wildlife trade


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October 2022

Our updates and stories of October

Lion cub-petting study finds alarming welfare concerns in animal tourism industry

First-of-its-kind study, published in Animals, analyses YouTube videos to substantiate stress behaviours from lion cubs handled by tourists seeking the “Simba effect”


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FOUR PAWS in Ukraine

Survey in Ukraine Shows More to Do to Help Animals

FOUR PAWS continues its support of stray animals and shelters across the country


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pig in a cage

COP27: Programme unveiled for “trailblazing and historic” Food Systems Pavilion

Food systems transformation to take centre stage at first Food4Climate pavilion at annual UN climate summit


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Romanian five doing well in bigger enclosure

Almost two months after they arrived to spend the rest of their lives in species-appropriate care under the African sun, the five Romanian lions at FOUR PAWS LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, are adapting well in their new three hectares enclosure


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Pigs crammed together

97th World Animal Day Celebrates a “Shared Planet”

FOUR PAWS calls for global leadership and legislation in recognising of the interlinkage between animal welfare, humans, and the environment on World Animal Day 


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September 2022

Our updates and stories of September

Dog laying in road with TukTuk in the background

Call for Action Against the Dog Meat Trade and Rabies Control

World Rabies Day Highlights the Need for Global Action Against Dog Meat Trade


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outh Africa, Bethlehem | 2021 10 02 | FOUR PAWS South Africa takes part in a vaccination drive in the community of Bohlokong in the Free State in South Africa

FOUR PAWS urges public to take precautions as NICD confirms ten human rabies cases in South Africa

Today marks the day of global advocacy and awareness for one of the world’s deadliest viruses, rabies, which is still prevalent in South Africa


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South Africa, Bethlehem | 2022 02 12 | LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary accommodation general tourism image

FOUR PAWS launches digital animal friendly travel guide

FOUR PAWS South Africa launches digital animal friendly travel guide on World Tourism Day 


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Lions Samson and Tom inspecting new enclosure

Survey shows South Africans want better legislative protection for all big cat species

More than 90% of South Africans say big cats should be better protected by the country’s laws and regulations


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Bear Iva at her old enclosure in North Macedonia

FOUR PAWS Transfers Rescued Bear from North Macedonia to Bulgaria

BEAR SANCTUARY Belitsa welcomes Iva in species-appropriate surroundings 


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South Africa | 2007 03 - 2021 10 | Investigation into the big cat captive breeding in South Africa.

Animal welfare organisation responds to Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s White Paper

In response to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s White Paper, FOUR PAWS says, all big cats in captivity deserve a better deal 


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A lion kept in a small cage at a South African lion farm where 30 lions were euthanized after being burned in a fire.

Screening of hard-hitting documentary alarms parliamentarians

The Wildlife documentary, Lions, Bones and Bullets, has shocked South African parliamentarians at a screening prior to international release


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August 2022

Our updates and stories of August

Elephant Kaavan in his enclosure being visited by  Amir Khalil at Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary

Former “loneliest elephant in the world”, Kaavan, reunites with rescuers

FOUR PAWS rescued Kaavan in 2020 and flew him to Cambodia in “heaviest” mission yet 


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Karachi elephants receive dental surgery

Last Captive Elephants From Pakistani Zoo Undergo One-Of-A-Kind Tusk Surgery

International vet team from FOUR PAWS performs innovative super-size procedure 


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Lioness Geena arrives at LIONSROCK

Five lions rescued from Romania last year arrive at South African forever home

Former owner keeps exploiting rescued lions’ parents and one-year-old cub


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Orangatan in Care of FOUR PAWS

FOUR PAWS ORANGUTAN FOREST SCHOOL prepares for emergencies

Coronavirus might endanger the great apes 


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July 2022

Our updates and stories of July

Handover event 'This is not Vietnam' in Hanoi, Vietnam

33,000 Vietnamese Citizens and Residents Call For An End To The Dog And Cat Meat Trade

FOUR PAWS hosted event in Hanoi to handover petition to the Vietnamese government 


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Tiger Laziz walking on grass

International Tiger Day: Sixth rescueversary of tiger Laziz from war-torn country, highlights FOUR PAWS’ role in rescue and recovery of animals from warzones

Sixth rescueversary of tiger Laziz from war-torn country, highlights FOUR PAWS’ role in rescue and recovery of animals from warzones


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Pandemics and Animal Welfare

SA Emmy-nominee supports animal welfare campaign

Actors Brian Cox CBE and South African Emmy-nominee Thuso Mbedu are throwing their weight behind a FOUR PAWS campaign which is calling upon governments to prioritise animal welfare policies to prevent the next pandemic


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June 2022

Our updates and stories of June

Dog in a cage for the DCMT in Indonesia

Dog Slaughterhouse Owner in Indonesia Sentenced to 12 Months in Jail for Trading in Stolen Dogs for Human Consumption

This is the third conviction of a dog meat trafficker since the national government’s declaration in 2018 that 'dogs are not food'


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Therapy dog Busia

Former Stray Dog Busia Assists Therapy for Recovering Soldiers in Ukraine

FOUR PAWS Animal Assisted Therapy programme provides emotional support and PTSD prevention


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FOUR PAWS organised an action on June 8th at Nike´s main European Logistic Campus in Laakdal, Belgium

Over 50,000 sport enthusiasts want 50-year-jubilee Nike to stop using cruel wool

FOUR PAWS welcomes strong signal and urges market leader to switch to certified wool to help prevent the mutilation of lambs


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Dog in the destroyed town of Bucha

From the ruins: How stray animals are being taken care of in the streets of Bucha and other Ukrainian cities

FOUR PAWS delivers help in full capacity again for homeless dogs and cats across the country


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Chickens in a row in boiler room

FOUR PAWS calls for a move to a more sustainable agriculture sector

FOUR PAWS urges a reduction of all animal protein consumption and production by 50 percent by 2040


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May 2022

Our updates and stories of May

Juno Marlina in the forest

Rescue Orangutan Juno Marlina

Recovering from being kept as a pet in a tiny cage


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Rescue Bé and Em

Rescue Bear Cubs Bé and Em

Stolen for the illegal wildlife trade, two orphaned bear cubs are safe now


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Bear Sam

Rescue Bears Sam and Jamila

After many years in poor captivity, a new chapter for the brown bears begins


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April 2022

Our updates and stories of April

LIONSROCK Vet Christine Steyrer

World Veterinary Day 30 April

Specialist big cat vet builds 24/7-resilience up by being fit and inspired


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Athlete

New Brutal Mulesing Footage Puts Pressure on Nike

FOUR PAWS together with pro athletes call on sportswear giant to “Just Don't Do It”


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Dog Meat Market Indonesia

Dog Trafficker in Indonesia Sentenced to Record Jail Term

Trafficker, Guruh Tri Susilo, was sentenced to 17 months' imprisonment for trading in stolen dogs for human consumption


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March 2022

Our updates and stories of March

Dog in cage

FOUR PAWS Undercover Investigation Shows Cruel Dog Meat Trade in Indonesia

Umbrella organisation condemn investigation that reveals dogs sold for meat alongside bats, snakes and wild boar in Sulawesi “extreme” wet markets despite disease risk


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Argentinian Train Tigers arriving at LIONSROCK

From Argentina to South Africa: ‘Train Tigers’ Feel Grass Under Their Paws for the First Time

FOUR PAWS transfers­ four rescued tigers to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary 


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February 2022

Our updates and stories of February

Bear Thi

Rescue Nine Bile Bears

From life behind bars to paradise: Almost two decades in captivity are over


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January 2022

Our updates and stories of January

December 2021

Our updates and stories of December

FOUR PAWS launches major campaign in Vietnam to End the “Cruel and Barbaric” Dog and Cat Meat Trade

FOUR PAWS launches major campaign in Vietnam to End the “Cruel and Barbaric” Dog and Cat Meat Trade

Global animal welfare organisation calls on Vietnamese people to show their opposition to the dog and cat meat trade and call on the Vietnamese government to bring an end to the trade


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Vietnam establishes first ever dog and cat meat-free tourist-friendly city

Vietnam establishes first ever dog and cat meat-free tourist-friendly city

FOUR PAWS welcomes Hoi An City People’s Committee's progressive actions to protect dogs, cats, and people


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Dogs in cages at a dog meat trader

First Ever Dog and Cat Meat-Free Tourist-Friendly City

FOUR PAWS welcomes Hoi An City People’s Committee's progressive actions to protect dogs, cats, and people


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November 2021

Our updates and stories of November

Dog Meat Trade in Indonesia

Police in Indonesia intercept a notorious dog meat trader, saving over 50 terrified dogs awaiting slaughter

FOUR PAWS, the global animal welfare organisation, hoped this would be a turning point in the campaign against the dog meat trade


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Borneo's secretive dog meat trade

Brutality Beyond the Beauty: Borneo's Secretive Dog Meat Trade

The first-ever dog meat investigations in Borneo revealed a rampant dog meat trade


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October 2021

Our updates and stories of October

Thailand launches “first-of-its-kind” initiative to improve dog welfare

Thailand launches “first-of-its-kind” initiative to improve dog welfare

The province of Trang has launched a programme following Thailand’s announcement to re-open on 1 November post COVID-19 regulations


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September 2021

Our updates and stories of September

August 2021

Our updates and stories of August

Woman with sheep

New study: Pandemic leads to increased demand for compassion in fashion

FOUR PAWS reveals that almost 90 per cent want fashion industry to prioritise animal welfare


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July 2021

Our updates and stories of July

June 2021

Our updates and stories of June

Jasper & Jade exploring new enclosure

Seaview tigers moved to safe new forever home

On the 22nd of June 2021, two Siberian tigers were translocated in an emergency rescue operation from Seaview Predator Park in Port Elizabeth, to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in the Free State Province


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May 2021

Our updates and stories of May

Bear at BEAR SANCTUARY Müritz

#BehindTheScenes at BEAR SANCTUARY Müritz

Animal Caretaker Sabine Steinmeier gives us an exclusive look behind the scenes at the sanctuary


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Chihuahua

How the 'Digital Services Act' could help stop the illegal puppy trade

FOUR PAWS is mobilising policy makers and supporters to amend a new EU law to ban illegal puppy dealers from online marketplaces 


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Dogs in Cambodia

“Historic opportunity for pandemic treaty must not be missed!”

FOUR PAWS calls on WHO member states to prevent future pandemics


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Merino sheep

FOUR PAWS achieves a “hat-trick” with Puma

In the future, the German sports goods manufacturer will refrain from using uncertified wool of animal cruelty origin


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FOUR PAWS encouraged by DFFE report’s key recommendations on captive lions

The global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS is incredibly encouraged by the announcement from the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Ms. Barbara Creecy


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April 2021

Our updates and stories of April

Bloem tigers celebrate 1 year at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary

Two tigers rescued, amongst many other animals, from the Bloemfontein Zoo in 2020 celebrated their one-year anniversary at the LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, a project by the global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS


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March 2021

Our updates and stories of March

How South Africa’s captive big cat breeding industry is exploiting animals AND people

The industry of abuse has allowed animal suffering to proliferate to alarming levels


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Campaigners in Spain

Haven of hell: At “best”, the Elbeik's 1,610 cattle are killed on site

FOUR PAWS speaks of a total failure of the European Union as well as the Spanish authorities


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Live animal transport of cattle

Tragedy at sea continues: The "Elbeik" sails back to the EU after an odyssey of almost three months with 1,776 cattle on board

FOUR PAWS already reported on the killing of the 895 young bulls of "Karim Allah" this Sunday


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Dog in small cage in slaughterhouse, Cambodia

One million dogs killed: FOUR PAWS closes major slaughterhouse in Cambodia, rescuing 16 dogs on site

Rescue comes a week after interception of 61 dogs in a minivan in Siem Reap


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elephant in circus

FOUR PAWS calls upon EU Commission for a ban of wild animals in circuses

Opinion poll shows majority of Europeans are against animal suffering in entertainment


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The Dog and Cat Meat Trade; A global health risk – the report

New report highlights the need to end the cruel trade and stop future pandemics emerging


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Pig in truck

One year on from COVID-19 being declared a global pandemic

But what is being done to prevent future pandemics?


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February 2021

Our updates and stories of February

Fur fox

Internationally renowned sports brand Adidas joins fur-free initiative

FOUR PAWS welcomes newest member in the Fur Free Retailer program


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Dogs rescued

Slaughterhouse-bound minivan carrying 61 dogs intercepted in Cambodia

FOUR PAWS steps in to assist Cambodian authorities in first ever interception of dogs being taken for the dog meat trade


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Cages of laying hens

Dr Jane Goodall calls on EU to end cage farming across Europe

The letter to the European Commission is signed by more than 140 international scientists


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Dog in shelter

Despite COVID-19 restrictions: FOUR PAWS distributes 10 tonnes of food to starving animals in Lebanon

Hundreds of animals were left homeless after the devastating explosion in Beirut in August


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Stray animal care in Romania

COVID-19 and Stray Animals

What a pandemic means for stray cats and dogs


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January 2021

Our updates and stories of January

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