Latest news with #FourPaws
eNCA
20-05-2025
- General
- eNCA
Give a rescue dog a bone and a home
JOHANNESBURG - Tuesday is World Rescue Dog Day, and what better time to let a furry friend adopt you? WATCH: Animal Safety | Spend a night in a kennel with a rescue animal Four Paws SA is urging you to adopt, not shop, because every paw in need is a loyal friend indeed. Let's spread hope and love to the millions of homeless animals waiting for their forever homes. Bertha Moteane from Four Paws discussed this with eNCA.
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
World Health Assembly adopts landmark Pandemic Agreement, embracing One Health approach
Foxes on a fur farm in Mylnek, Poland Image: Four Paws In a landmark decision that could reshape global health policy, the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva has officially adopted the Pandemic Agreement, marking the first time the One Health approach—a concept that underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health—has been enshrined in an international, legally binding framework. Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS has applauded this development as a crucial step towards preventing pandemics right at their source, urging all nations to not only sign the treaty but also to swiftly implement its provisions. Nina Jamal, Head of Pandemics and Campaign Strategies at FOUR PAWS, highlighted the significance of this agreement. "Today, WHO member states adopted a historic global instrument and committed to tackling the drivers of pandemics at their source, significantly reducing the risk of future outbreaks before humans and animals suffer," she said, emphasising that animal welfare is now recognised as a key component in safeguarding human health. 'This adoption marks a watershed moment, anchoring animal welfare as essential for protecting human health. It shows that global health policy is evolving to include measures beyond symptom control and addresses issues before disease outbreaks burden health systems.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Mink Farm in Poland. Image: FOUR PAWS This newly adopted treaty not only reiterates the importance of animal welfare in health policy but also represents a strong commitment to international collaboration in confronting global challenges. By embracing the One Health approach officially, governments worldwide are encouraged to develop multisectoral strategies that acknowledge the intricate links between human well-being, animal health, and environmental stability. FOUR PAWS underscores the alarming reality that over 70% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate from animals, influenced by human actions towards the treatment of animals and their habitats. Jamal pointed to the ongoing threat posed by zoonotic diseases, such as the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, which has recently affected dairy cattle in the US and has been linked to significant health risks for both animals and humans. The stark reality is that conditions in factory farms exacerbate these risks, allowing for the proliferation and mutation of viruses involved in outbreaks. Examples of the dire consequences of ignoring animal welfare abound; in 2023, over 500,000 animals—including mink, foxes, and raccoon dogs—were euthanised on fur farms in Finland, while 141 million poultry were killed or euthanised globally in 2022 as part of efforts to contain the H5N1 outbreak. Jamal suggested that transitioning to smaller farms with improved animal welfare could mitigate such risks, ultimately lowering disease transmission and reducing both animal suffering and economic losses. Broiler chicken farm investigation in December 2020 in east England. The investigation took place on one of Britain's mega farms. As calculations of flock and building size have revealed, more than 22 birds are kept per square metre of floor space. Many of the birds are visibly sick and forced to live miserable lives. Image: Four Paws 'When they suffer, we suffer,' Jamal emphasised, calling for an evaluation of high-risk practices such as habitat destruction, wildlife trade, and the deplorable conditions prevalent in factory farming. Countries that have successfully implemented the One Health approach, like Uganda—with its National One Health Platform—illustrate the effectiveness of interministerial collaboration in preventing zoonotic disease outbreaks. With a track record of addressing zoonotic threats such as Ebola and anthrax, Uganda prioritises disease prevention and preparedness, serving as a pioneering example for others to follow. The call to action is clear: as the world grapples with changing health dynamics, the emphasis on One Health is more critical than ever. FOUR PAWS advocates that recognising this interconnectedness is not merely an ideal but a necessary approach to safeguard public health moving forward.
Express Tribune
16-05-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Hope on the horizon as TB treatment begins for elephants
A Four Paws team sounds the alarm on the health of Madhubala and Malka. PHOTO: EXPRESS Listen to article Two elephants at Safari Park, Madhubala and Malika, are undergoing treatment for tuberculosis under the supervision of Sri Lankan veterinary expert Dr Buddhika Bandara. The specialist has arrived in Karachi for a 17-day visit to assess their condition and oversee the treatment, which follows internationally recommended medical protocols. Dr Bandara, accompanied by committee member Yusra Askari and other local veterinarians, addressed the media on Friday to provide an update on the elephants' condition. According to him, both elephants were diagnosed with TB in May, and treatment commenced immediately under international protocols. The treatment consists of two phases - an intensive initial stage lasting two months, followed by a ten-month regimen of regular medication and check-ups. Dr Bandara, who has successfully treated 15 elephants with TB in the past, expressed confidence that Madhubala and Malika will also recover. Both elephants remain under strict medical supervision. To ensure their safety and minimise stress, the Safari Park administration has restricted public access. Visitors may only observe the elephants from designated viewing areas or specially arranged buses. Dr Bandara explained that the elephants' health will be reviewed every two months, with a more comprehensive screening scheduled every six months. The next major assessment will take place in six months. The animals received their most recent medication 13 days ago, and their treatment is progressing as planned. Although the recovery process is long, Dr Bandara emphasised that full recovery is possible if the prescribed treatment protocol is followed diligently. He expressed hope that both elephants will soon show signs of significant improvement. The park administration, along with attending veterinarians, expressed satisfaction with the current treatment measures. They assured the public that every possible medical facility and expert oversight is being provided to restore the health and vitality of Madhubala and Malika, with the ultimate aim of allowing them to once again become a cherished attraction for park visitors.
The Citizen
27-04-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Rescued French circus lionesses thrive in SA sanctuary
In a journey of healing and hope, two lionesses, Tomoyo and Illiana, have found refuge at Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa after years of suffering in captivity. Their story, which begins with forced performances in the circus, marks a powerful example of the impact of animal exploitation and the transformative power of sanctuary life. Before the Covid-19 pandemic struck, Tomoyo and Illiana were both part of a travelling circus in France, performing for audiences in a life far removed from their natural instincts. Circus closed down during Covid-19 pandemic However, when the pandemic forced the circus to shut down, the two lionesses were no longer needed for performances. They were left in a small residence near Paris, where they lived without the opportunity to exercise and roam freely. Their confinement led to health problems, including weight gain, particularly in Illiana, who struggled with the lack of movement and stimulation. As Fiona Miles, director of animal welfare organisation Four Paws, explains: 'Before the pandemic, Tomoyo and Illiana were forced to perform unnatural tricks for crowds, but once the circus stopped, their suffering didn't end. They were kept in small spaces with limited movement, and this led to both physical and emotional stress.' Lionesses first rehabilitated at animal refuge in France Their rescue began in December 2024, when their owner voluntarily surrendered them. Along with another lioness named Pepsi, Tomoyo and Illiana were taken to the Tonga Terre d'Accueil refuge in France, where they received care and began the process of rehabilitation. Tragically, Pepsi passed away shortly after arriving due to acute kidney failure, a common condition among big cats kept in unsuitable conditions. Finally back on African soil The journey continued in April, when the two lionesses were transported from Paris to Johannesburg, and then to Lionsrock on April 10. There, they were released into a specially prepared adaptation area, where they are now closely monitored by an experienced team. 'Their new home is a far cry from the confined spaces they knew for years,' Miles says. 'At Lionsrock, they have access to vast, natural environments designed to support their rehabilitation.' Lionesses adjusting well to newfound freedom Since their arrival, Tomoyo and Illiana have begun adjusting to their new life. According to caretakers, the pair have already been seen playing and exploring their new surroundings, including climbing trees and interacting with water basins. 'It's remarkable to see their personalities come out,' Miles adds. 'Illiana was calm and cautious, taking her time to survey the area, while Tomoyo jumped out of her crate with enthusiasm, eager to explore.' Their rehabilitation is being carefully managed, with special attention to their physical condition. As part of their recovery, they are undergoing a gradual acclimatisation programme, which includes weight management, muscle development, and enrichment activities to encourage physical and mental stimulation. 'These lionesses have endured so much, but we're confident that with time, they'll regain their strength and thrive in their new environment,' Miles shared. Call to ban the use of wild animals for entertainment The rescue of Tomoyo and Illiana underscores the urgent need for global change in the treatment of wild animals in entertainment. The animal welfare organisation has long been advocating for a worldwide ban on wild animals in circuses, because of the physical and psychological toll these performances take on animals like lions and tigers. 'Circus life is inherently cruel for wild animals,' says Miles. 'The unnatural tricks, confinement, and stress they endure are unbearable, and it's crucial that we continue to raise awareness and push for the protection of these magnificent creatures.' While France has made strides by enacting legislation to prohibit the use of wild animals in circuses by 2028, Miles emphasised that this is only the first step. 'Legislation alone is not enough,' she explains. 'We need to ensure that wild animals are only kept in accredited sanctuaries where their species-specific needs can be met.' For Tomoyo and Illiana, their journey is far from over They have suffered in silence for years, but with each passing day, their resilience shines through. As Miles says, 'Every big cat deserves a life that respects their natural behaviour. And for Tomoyo and Illiana, that life has just begun.' – To learn more about the fight to end wild animal performances and to support the rehabilitation of animals like Tomoyo and Illiana, visit the Four Paws website. – Click here to see a video of the rescue effort of the circus lions. Read original story on At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
24-04-2025
- General
- IOL News
Celebrating International Leopard Day: a call to protect South Africa's majestic leopards
A leopard in the Kruger National Park. Image: Ian Landsberg/Independent Newspapers. The beauty and majesty of leopards (Panthera pardus) are not just a captivating sight; they also play a crucial role in the ecological balance of their habitats. However, as the world marks International Leopard Day on 3 May, conservationists urged a collective commitment to combat the threats leopards face, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. In South Africa, leopards are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with their population steadily decreasing. Once roaming vast areas, their habitats have been diminished to a mere 25% of their historical range. The alarming decline of these iconic apex predators signals an urgent need for concerted efforts to protect them both in the wild and in captivity. Four Paws South Africa and Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary have joined forces to highlight the significance of safeguarding leopards through their global initiative. 'South Africa can and must set a precedent for global wildlife protection efforts by ensuring that all big cats are safeguarded for future generations,' said Fiona Miles, Director at Four Paws. 'By developing world-class standards and policies, South Africa can lead global advocacy for stricter protections for big cats, shifting the mindset from financial value to the intrinsic value these sentient animals have.' At Lionsrock, the sanctuary provides a haven for rescued leopards, allowing them to live in environments that cater to their natural behaviours. Among the residents, Bakari, Mike, and Tulani have experienced the tragic realities of captivity. Bakari's journey to Lionsrock reveals a troubling past; he was initially kept as a photo attraction in a German zoo and later faced distress in confined spaces alongside lions—animals that are natural enemies of leopards. However, with love and care, Bakari has found solace and safety in his new habitat. Mike and Tulani, known as the sanctuary's 'resident couple,' have also overcome powerful adversities. Tulani was raised in a safari farm while Mike was captured in a live trap. Both leopards now thrive in the care of dedicated staff who provide them with enrichment and a peaceful existence. Sanctuary Manager Hildegard Pirker passionately comments, 'Leopards are incredibly adaptable and intelligent animals, but their survival is constantly challenged by human activities. We provide them with the space and care they need to live dignified lives.' As part of their mission, Four Paws advocates for an end to the exploitation and commercial trade of big cats. International Leopard Day represents a vital opportunity to raise awareness about the ethical treatment of wildlife. It is a call for society as a whole to recognise the significance of legal protections surrounding both wild leopards and those in captivity. Pivotal to this awareness is understanding the differences between leopards and their counterparts, jaguars, which are often confused. While leopards can be found across Africa and parts of Asia, jaguars inhabit the Americas. Their unique rosette patterns further distinguish them: leopards have smaller, more densely packed spots compared to the larger rosettes with central spots that characterise jaguars. Acknowledging these differences is pertinent in providing specific care for each species and catering to their welfare needs. As we celebrate International Leopard Day, let us commit to advocating ethical wildlife practices and stricter laws to protect these magnificent creatures. The plight of leopards is a shared responsibility, and through initiatives led by organisations like FOUR PAWS South Africa and sanctuaries like Lionsrock, we can ensure that future generations will share the planet with these extraordinary animals.
