FOUR PAWS International

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Dear aaa,

Some stories are told so persuasively that they can almost hide the truth. But animal exploitation doesn’t become acceptable just because it’s wrapped in polished language.

We see it time and again: brands’ lack of transparency downplays suffering. Private owners claim animals are comfortable in unsuitable conditions – despite clear evidence to the contrary.

They may deny the truth, but we won’t. And neither should you.

In this newsletter, we’re sharing campaign updates that challenge these narratives. Join us in this work and read on for stories of animals recovering and thriving – a vital reminder of why our efforts matter.

A second chance still denied for bear Tim

Tim is the last bear in private captivity in Slovenia – his relocation would mark a major milestone for bear welfare in the country. Yet his owner continues to reject FOUR PAWS offer to give the bear a dignified life in a natural outdoor enclosure at BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach.

Even worse, the court has recently reinstated a license for Zoo park Rožman to exhibit animals, including bear Tim – an appalling decision that prolongs Tim’s suffering. This only strengthens our determination to fight for the bear.

On 14 April, FOUR PAWS travelled to Zoo park Rožman. While our access to the zoo was denied by Tim’s owner, a wildlife veterinarian was able to see Tim and found him in distress, strongly recommending his relocation.

"Tim showed stereotypic behaviours, which are a common sign of distress for bears in inappropriate keeping. He lives in a small mostly concrete enclosure with just a wooden log and a ball as enrichment. For humans, the equivalent would be being locked in an empty room for their entire life.”

- Johanna Painer-Gigler, wildlife veterinarian at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna

We won’t stop until Tim is given the fresh start he deserves.

Learn more about #FreeBearTim here

Speak up against live lamb cutting

Innocent baby lambs restrained on their backs while chunks of skin and flesh are cut away. This is the reality of live lamb cutting (mulesing) – and Michael Kors is choosing to ignore it.

More than half of the world’s wool comes from sheep who endured live lamb cutting. We investigated over 100 fashion brands across 11 countries, and Michael Kors scored zero points: no policy, no product information, no visible action on that cruel practice.

We’ve campaigned. We’ve sent emails. Michael Kors remains silent. So now, we must be louder.

In our social media post, we’re calling on everyone to tag Michael Kors and demand accountability. Together, we can make it impossible for the brand to look away.

Tag Michael Kors here

Brave new start after hardship

After 20 years as a ‘restaurant bear’, Mici’s beautiful new chapter at BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach could not be more heartwarming. Rescued at the end of 2025 from a tiny enclosure in Bled, Slovenia, she has adapted remarkably well. Now, Mici loves rolling in the leaves and napping on her paw.

When dog Serj was brought to our partner clinic in Moldova, he had a torn wound under his eye and an infected injury on his neck. Untreated for days, the wounds caused persistent pain. After urgent care and daily treatments, Serj is healing well and growing stronger, showing remarkable resilience..

Cat Vi’s bravery carried her through severe eye infection, emergency surgeries to remove her eyes, and an intense recovery. Now adopted by a loving family, she is adjusting to her new life with incredible confidence – and her favourite activity is climbing to high places.