Update on the progress of our rescued bear

In early January, WFFT rescued a 10 year old Asiatic Black Bear from a temple in Korat (see “The Mobile Wildlife Clinic on a (bear) rescue again”).

February 2007 We named her Joan, and she had suffered badly infected wounds around her rear end, which had become infested with maggots. After intensive treatment involving 3 anesthetics to clean and disinfect her wounds, and after 2 weeks of antibiotic therapy, Joan improved to the point where she could be moved out of quarantine and into a much larger outdoor enclosure.

Although this is only a stepping stone towards her introduction into our 8,000 square meter new bear enclosure, she is now enjoying life exploring her new space which includes many trees, enrichments, and a large pool… it’s probably the largest space she’s ever seen! Her wounds are now healing well and we hope not to have to sedate her again. Seeing her walking around using her back legs well, showing an interest in her surroundings, and behaving like a bear, is a wonderful experience for all of us here.

Bears can be very difficult to rehabilitate after the kind of life and sickness Joan has suffered, but Joan really seems to be relishing her new life… long may it continue!