Alan Knight OBE, with 30 years of experience in saving bears from the dancing industry, has encountered distressing situations. As the President and founder of International Animal Rescue (IAR), a global charity committed to rescuing and rehabilitating various animals, Alan shared with the Mirror some of the heart-wrenching cases he has witnessed.
Despite the official end of India’s dancing bear trade 16 years ago, many sloth bears still endure the repercussions of prolonged physical and emotional suffering. These bears, indigenous to India, were historically utilized as dancing bears by the Calendar Gipsies to entertain wealthy individuals. Over time, the practice fell out of favor, leading to the decline of the trade.
Describing the distressing process of capturing these bears, Alan explained how orphaned cubs are subjected to brutal training methods involving hot pokers and rough ropes to force them to dance. The bears’ canines are intentionally broken to prevent attacks on spectators, causing excruciating pain and dental issues.
Recognizing the dire situation, Alan and the IAR team have undertaken extensive efforts to rescue and rehabilitate these bears. Through initiatives like providing root canals to address dental problems and improving liver function damaged by alcohol consumption, the team has restored the health and well-being of over 600 sloth bears in India.
Moreover, efforts have been made to support former bear handlers in transitioning to alternative livelihoods, leading to successful outcomes where many have abandoned animal exploitation practices. Despite the challenges, the IAR’s dedication has resulted in a brighter future for rescued bears like Digit, who has fully recovered and now lives happily at a sanctuary.
Alan emphasized the bears’ capacity for forgiveness and resilience, highlighting how kindness can transform their behavior positively. As the festive season approaches, IAR appeals for donations to improve the lives of these bears, offering opportunities for supporters to contribute to their care and well-being.
For those interested in donating, IAR is offering a special Christmas decoration as a token of appreciation, along with the chance to send personalized messages for the bears and their caregivers to be displayed on the organization’s Christmas tree.