ISLAMABAD—In a compassionate effort, a black bear named Rocky has been saved from a life of misery and abuse in Pakistan’s eastern region and is now receiving medical care in the capital city. The rescue operation was carried out by a local animal welfare organization, highlighting the plight Rocky faced. The seven-year-old bear was subjected to illegal captivity in Punjab province and endured abuse in 35 brutal encounters. Authorities intervened to transfer him to a more secure facility.
Unfortunately, the initial facility lacked the resources needed to provide proper care for Rocky, prompting officials to move him to Islamabad for better medical attention. To support the bear’s rehabilitation, a team from the animal welfare group Four Paws traveled to Pakistan. Veterinarians conducted an operation on Rocky on Sunday, addressing some of the critical injuries he sustained.
Dr. Amir Khalil, a member of the medical team, reported progress, saying, “We were able to release and cut the chain and nose ring.” Despite these advancements, Rocky’s physical condition reflects his traumatic experiences. “His condition is physically good, but he suffered,” Dr. Khalil added. Rocky’s injuries include a jaw fracture, the absence of teeth, and multiple wounds on his ear, all consequences of the violent fights and dog attacks he was forced to endure.
Dr. Khalil further emphasized the harsh reality that bear fighting, despite being illegal, persists in certain parts of Pakistan. This event brings attention to the broader issues of animal welfare within the country. Just last December, Pakistan faced another tragedy when an elephant at a safari park died shortly after being reunited with her sister, underscoring the challenges elephants in captivity face.
In 2020, another poignant episode unfolded when two sick and neglected Himalayan brown bears, previously used for dancing, were rescued from a much-criticized zoo in Islamabad and transported to a sanctuary in Jordan. Such incidents continue to draw attention to the need for stronger animal protection measures in Pakistan.
