Public “Encounters” Harm Captive Wild Animals
Wild animals are not props or playthings. Yet captive wildlife “encounters” and “experiences” – where the public can hold, pet, and feed captive wild animals – are on the rise.…
Captive wild animals need your help
PAWS is dedicated to ending the exploitation of captive wildlife. We do this through advocacy and leveraging our expertise to combat all forms of mistreatment. Join us in our lifesaving mission.
Take action for captive wild animals
Captive wild animals suffer in circuses and animal acts
From wild animal acts at your local county fair to big top circuses, captive elephants, big cats, bears, and other wild animals continue to suffer for people’s entertainment. There is…
Take the Pledge to End Elephant Suffering for Tourism
No elephant should have to suffer for tourists’ entertainment. Although well-meaning, tourists may not realize the harm that captive elephants endure so they can interact with them, including riding or…
Help End the Cruel Exploitation of Bears
Bears are the overlooked animal. Big cats and elephants used for entertainment often capture our attention, but did you know that captive bears are also harmed? In the U.S., about…
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Avoid animal attractions
Avoid circuses, traveling wild animal acts, roadside animal attractions, and zoos. -
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Wild animals are not meant to be owned, any more than human beings are. Nobody has the right to pass a cougar or a gorilla on from hand to hand.
Pat Derby, PAWS Co-founder
Make a donation
Your donation to PAWS makes a lasting impact. You ensure compassionate care for wild animals – many rescued from exploitation and abuse. Now, they thrive in expansive, natural environments, receiving exceptional care and treated with the respect they deserve. Your support also drives our vital advocacy efforts to change laws and end the use of wild animals in entertainment.
Adopt an animal
At the ARK 2000 sanctuary, rescued and retired wild animals find a true refuge. Carefully designed environments encourage behaviors that are natural to them and offer those who suffered past trauma and mistreatment a chance to recover.
By “adopting” one or more of the animals we care for, or gifting an adoption to an animal lover in your life, you help support their care. Please note that PAWS’ adoptions are symbolic and do not involve physical custody of the animals.
