Dear aaa,
In our November newsletter, we’re sharing stories that remind us why compassion matters – from global victories to sanctuary celebrations.
Join us as we rejoice at bear Erich’s incredible 10-year journey, applaud Poland’s historic move toward a fur-free future, and share joyful Halloween moments. Let’s dive in! |
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Poland moves closer to a fur-free future
On 17 October, more than three-quarters of Members of the Polish Parliament (Sejm), followed by the Senate, voted in favour of banning fur farming – a significant step in animal welfare and a major achievement for Polish animal protection organisations.
With the parliamentary stage now complete, the final step is the President’s signature to make the ban a reality. We hope that this last hurdle will be overcome in the days ahead. Once enacted, breeders then will have until 31 December 2033 to phase out operations.
Poland is the EU’s largest fur producer, with 269 farms and millions of animals confined in wire cages, living in fear and pain. A ban on fur farming in Poland would send a powerful message: cruelty has no place in modern society. It would also strengthen our efforts to achieve an EU-wide ban. |
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Halloween fun at FOUR PAWS sanctuaries
From eerie webs and spooky ghosts to bat-shaped cutouts and pumpkin surprises, our sanctuaries celebrated Halloween in style with creative enrichment activities.
Raccoons eagerly explored cauldrons, tiger Tajmir investigated a ghostly figure, and foxes showed off their playful instincts by tearing through cardboard bats. Some animals, like tigress Cara, remained unimpressed – even though everything was scented with her favourite lavender. |
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10 years of proper care for bear Erich
In autumn 2015, a bear named Erich arrived at BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach. After years in a small concrete enclosure, this was a life-changing moment for him.
Erich had lived in a park in Upper Austria with his sister and mother. When the park closed in 2012, we welcomed the entire bear family into our sanctuary. For 10 years, Erich has enjoyed the care and lifestyle he truly deserves.
To mark this milestone, Erich received a huge cardboard box filled with his favourite treats and a pile of sawdust for enrichment and play.
We’re overjoyed to see Erich thriving! His decade at the sanctuary reflects our commitment to providing bears with proper care and near-natural habitats where they can live with dignity. |
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Prepare your dog for colder days
For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the crisp air, shorter days, and frosty mornings signal that colder weather has arrived. While you enjoy the beauty of autumn, make sure your dog stays comfortable and protected.
Cold weather, parasites, and hidden dangers like wild mushrooms or festive decorations can put your pet at risk. FOUR PAWS offers practical advice to help you keep your dog safe all season long. |
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Countries step up advocacy for animal welfare |
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FOUR PAWS Australia urged stronger national action on animal welfare, calling for reforms such as a unified dog identification system, state-based Animal Welfare Authorities, and the elimination of cruel practices. These proposals aim to modernise protections, improve enforcement, and ensure consistent standards for animals across Australia. |
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New Zealand deemed animals are crucial for National disaster readiness. Animal Evac New Zealand and FOUR PAWS contributed to public consultation on the nation's new emergency management legislation, successfully highlighting animal welfare as a key priority. |
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Colombia has taken a monumental step in disaster management with the adoption of Ley 2474 de 2025. For the first time, animals are officially recognized and included in the country's national disaster management law. |
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Kind regards,
Natalie Hood
International Fundraising Team |
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Photo of the month: Majestic tiger Tajmir during his relocation to FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary. He is now safely settled in the sanctuary, enjoying a spacious enclosure and receiving proper care. |
Follow our animal welfare journey on social media
In our newsletter, we send you only the most pressing matters. However, due to our involvement in animal welfare issues all over the globe, there are countless more stories to be told. If you want to see, read and hear more from our daily work and all the wonderful animals we get to work with and see footage from our sanctuaries, rescues and projects, follow us on our social media channels. |
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