Special care for elderly rescued bears
Supporting our rescued bears through their golden years takes expert veterinary care, regional collaboration, and lifelong commitment.
At Free the Bears, every rescue is a commitment to provide expert, lifelong care for that bear, which can span more than 30 years.
That means caring for bears through every stage of life, from vulnerable cubs just weeks old, through to elderly bears.
Many of the bears we rescue have suffered for years on bile farms or in the illegal wildlife trade, and they arrive with complex physical and psychological trauma. They are more vulnerable to age-related health issues including arthritis, dental disease, declining eyesight, organ problems and reduced mobility.
As a result, caring for elderly bears with specialised medical needs is a vital part of our work.
Recently, members of Free the Bears’ Cambodia veterinary team travelled to Vietnam to work alongside local staff at our Cat Tien Bear Sanctuary, delivering advanced medical care to elderly rescued bears while sharing knowledge and mentoring future wildlife veterinarians.
During the visit, the team carried out comprehensive health assessments on seven older bears, Mumslee, Athena, Go, Pheonix, Bien, Kim, and Nicky.
They checked their heart health, organ function, joint condition and mobility to monitor for any early signs of age-related disease, and provided tailored nutritional support to help support the bears’ long-term health and wellbeing.
By identifying issues early, our teams can better manage chronic conditions, improve comfort, and help bears maintain a high quality of life as they grow older.
One bear underwent a specialist eye examination after developing cataracts, with her condition now being carefully monitored by the team.
Building Veterinary Expertise Across the Region
Trips like this are a valuable opportunity for knowledge sharing across our sanctuary network.
Free the Bears’ veterinary teams regularly collaborate across Southeast Asia, sharing expertise, refining best practice, and ensuring rescued bears in every sanctuary benefit from the highest possible standard of care.
This visit also included veterinary students from Nong Lam University, providing hands-on training and mentorship for the next generation of wildlife veterinarians.
Investing in local veterinary capacity is a vital part of creating a better future for wildlife across the region.
Help us keep our elderly bears comfortable, by gifting a 3-month supply of arthritis medication through our Gift for Bears shop.