Dear aaa,
They’ve waited long enough.
For years, big cats in a former zoo in Argentina have been confined to tiny, barren enclosures – majestic animals denied the space, dignity, and care they deserve.
Now, their fate can finally change.
After months of preparation, we are planning to move 15 big cats to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary. But this future depends on your support.
Will you help make their rescue possible? |
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This story began in September 2025, when our team first entered the former Zoo Luján – and what we found was heartbreaking.
Overcrowded cages. Untreated wounds. Animals in desperate need.
Just 70 km from Buenos Aires, former Zoo Luján was once a tourist attraction offering direct contact with wild animals. It was shut down in 2020 after severe animal welfare violations, and many animals were left behind in rapidly deteriorating conditions.
In 2025, following a Memorandum of Understanding with the Argentine government, FOUR PAWS stepped in to help two bears and more than 60 big cats in the former zoo. |
Since then, we have focused on stabilising the situation by providing emergency medical treatments, improving enclosures, and delivering specialised care. But this was only the first step. Life in the former zoo remains far from suitable for the big cats, and their relocation is essential.
We have a real chance to grant these animals the life they were always meant to live.
In early 2026, we successfully relocated two bears to BEAR SANCTUARY Belitsa, proving that such complex missions are possible.
Now, we are ready to take the next, much bigger step.
We are preparing the transfer of nine tigers and six lions to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa – one of our biggest big cat rescues.
Veterinary assessments revealed the devastating impact of years of inappropriate keeping: many of these animals suffer from chronic illnesses, age-related conditions, and untreated injuries. Those in the most critical condition – requiring sustained medical care, physical rehabilitation, and specialised treatment – have been prioritised for this transfer.
Every detail of the journey has been carefully planned to ensure each animal receives the proper care and safe conditions they need.
Will you help these 15 big cats take their final steps toward a dignified life? |
| Two sisters longing for a better life |
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Though they are almost complete opposites, Bella and Brynn are never far from each other. Bella is the braver of the two – curious and alert, she is often the first to try something new. Brynn, more cautious and reserved, prefers to watch from a distance before following her sister’s lead.
Their bond is strong, but it cannot replace what they are missing. Day after day, they remain without the care and the environment they need to truly thrive. No animal should have to live like this, and we are determined to change this. |
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Your support can help Bella, Brynn, and 13 other big cats reach a true forever home.
At the sanctuary, the big cats won’t just survive – they will finally have the chance to live in appropriate conditions.
There, each animal will be given what they have been denied for so long: space to roam, expert veterinary care, and a habitat designed around their individual needs. Kept in familiar social groups, with the possibility to form new bonds over time, their future will be one of stability and dignity.
You have stood with us every step of the way since we arrived in the former zoo. Now, we need your help again to make this crucial rescue possible. |
We are determined to find species-appropriate solutions for every big cat, and we couldn’t be more grateful for your support.
From the big cats in the former zoo, thank you! |
Warm regards,
Ana Oliveira
Global Donor Outreach Team |
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