The year 2020 will go down in infamy as being a very tough year. It’s been difficult for so many people, and all that considered- it appears to have been a great year for animals.
We could all use a silver lining after the year we’ve had, so here are seven ways animals came out on top
1. The ‘world’s loneliest elephant’ gains Cher’s attention and is released to a sanctuary
Kaavan, an elephant in Islamabad, Pakistan has been alone since 2012 when his enclosure mate at the zoo died. Over the years he became depressed and aggressive and caught the attention of Cher, who began a campaign to relocate Kaavan and the other animals at the zoo.
A case was brought before the Islamabad court involving Kaavan’s story, a bear who was forced to perform, and the killing of stray dogs. They ruled that animals have natural rights and are entitled to protection.
Kaavan was moved to a sanctuary with over 600 elephants.
2. California bans the sale of dogs and cats in pet stores
Bella’s Act was a bill signed by Gov. Newsom just before National Puppy Mill Awareness Day. This was a huge step since California’s shelters kill more dogs and cats than any other state.
This was brought about by the combined efforts of the ASPCA, Best Friends, and the Humane Society of the United States, as well as other players.
3. Mink farming banned in France and Netherlands France
After coming to the realizations that mink farming facilitated the spread of COVID-19, France and the Netherlands moved forward with banning the practice. It’s believed that Ireland and Poland will soon follow suit.
4. 15,000+ stores bring awareness to save lives of dogs and children
CVS, Albertsons, and Auto Zone began posting signs and playing announcements to prevent dogs and children from dying in hot cars. This has brought pressure on other retailers to do the same.
5. 45 rhinos saved from poachers by dogs trained to protect wildlife
A group of dogs including a Texan Black-and-Tan Coonhounds, Belgian Malinois, Foxhounds and Blue Ticks have been trained to deter poachers. With a 68% success rate, these dogs are providing an amazing service for African wildlife.
6. Wild animals are prohibited in circuses throughout England, France and Wales
The animals in circuses are subjected to cramped housing, forced performances, and constant transportation. This has all come to an end as of December 2020 in England, France, and Wales.
7. Support for TNR programs in Georgia, Texas, and Kentucky
The power of TNR is becoming more accepted as a solution to managing community cats in a no-kill environment. Among the locations supporting this push are now Georgia, Harris County, Texas, and Bowling Green, Kentucky
These are just a few of the incredible ways animals have triumphed over the past year. Let us know if there are other notable animal wins that you love in the comments below.
