Are all of the bears rescued by Animals Asia eligible for sponsorship?

There are currently 50 bears waiting for their guardian in our Vietnam sanctuary. Only bears in good health condition are available for Bear Guardianship.

Does the list of bears available for Bear Guardianship change?

The list of bears available for Bear Guardianship will be edited as we rescue Vietnam’s last bile bears.

Does each bear on the programme have only one bear guardian?

Yes, you will be the one and only Bear Guardian of your bear.

Can I visit my bear?

Our sanctuaries in China and Vietnam are open to the public two days a month and by prior arrangement only.

We are not open to the public on a daily basis but do have designated Open Days every month. You can find full information on visiting the China and Vietnam centres at this link.

Due to limited resources and public safety, we cannot accept visitors at other times. These days are scheduled in advance so the veterinary team, bear managers and other staff involved can plan their schedules around them, thus causing minimal disruption to the sanctuary's operation and to the bears.

Can I send gifts to my bear?

Unfortunately it is not possible for us to accept personal gifts for our bears. If you would like to send a gift to our bears, you may like to do so by choosing one of our ‘Gifts for the Bears’.

Can I give my bear a new name?

When the bears first arrive at our sanctuary they are given nicknames by our staff and by becoming a bear guardian, you can choose a forever name for your very own bear.

What happens if my bear falls ill or dies?

Once you become a guardian, we will send you regular updates on your bear’s well-being.

If your bear falls ill, your contributions will help cover the cost of the medical care required to keep him or her healthy.

If your bear passes away we will notify you.

If your bear passes away within the first year of being a guardian, you will be given the opportunity to become a bear guardian of another bear awaiting their forever name and their special guardian.