As we hop into this Lunar New Year of the Rabbit – or jump into the Year of the Cat if you're living in Vietnam – this is a year to be hopeful. The rabbit is the fourth animal in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizing grace, beauty, mercy and good luck.

Rabbits are also associated with the moon, because of the mythical Jade Rabbit who lives there – and, instead of the "man in the moon" that many know so well in the West – if you look closely at a full moon you might just see a rabbit instead.

The roaring tiger brought many dramatic challenges and accomplishments in the past year. Now we look forward to welcoming the gentle rabbit in China and the milder cat in Vietnam and joining you all with gratitude and anticipation for an exciting new year that astrologers say will be more peaceful and creative.

This is also a year of positivity and hope for our bear sanctuaries and programs in China and Vietnam and we can't wait to have you join us as good luck prevails.

To those who celebrated the lunar new year festival, I hope you enjoyed this special time with family and friends. Ring in good luck this year by grabbing your favourite item of red clothing, putting an even number of oranges on the table (except the unlucky number 4) and enjoy a bowl of warming veggie rice noodles.

Sending you all very best wishes for a happy new year full of peace and kindness! Kung Hei Fat Choi, Xīn Nián Kuài Lè, Chúc mừng năm mới.

The Senior Management Team of Animals Asia – Bruce, Felix, Tamara, Toby and Jill