A long wait for freedom: Sen the bear is finally safe

On 23 May 2025, Sen the moon bear – named after the lotus flower, a symbol of renewal in Vietnam – was freed from a cage he had known since 1998.

Held captive for over two decades in Nghe An province, Sen’s release followed growing government enforcement and legal reform. But this rescue was more than one bear’s freedom – it marked the closure of a bear bile farm in one of Vietnam’s last remaining hotspots.

A broken body, an unbroken spirit

Sen’s condition told a story of prolonged suffering. Painfully thin and dehydrated, he bore the marks of extreme neglect – cracked paw pads, missing teeth, and an old injury that left the tip of his tongue severed. A large lump protruded from his back.

Yet hope remained. Despite everything, his gall bladder showed no immediate damage – a small mercy for a bear likely tortured for bile extraction. Gently treated for his pain, Sen was given a safe place to rest, perhaps for the first time in his life.

A joyful new beginning at Bach Ma

Sen’s arrival at Animals Asia’s Bach Ma Bear Rescue Centre sparked an extraordinary transformation. Curious, energetic, and food-loving, he embraced his new world with enthusiasm.

“Sen has a healthy appetite for just about everything,” said one carer. “Even dragon fruit, his least favourite, gets eaten. And he absolutely loves his showers – he’s first in line every time.”

From exploring every corner to rubbing his back contentedly against the bars – not in pain, but in playful ownership – Sen began to heal.

Friendship and freedom

Sen now shares his space with fellow rescued bears Smokey and Rizzo. Though strangers at first, the trio quickly became companions – resting, playing, and exploring together.

“Sen and Smokey connected almost immediately,” a caregiver shared. “Rizzo took a little longer, but they’re now a trio in sync.”

Their bond shows what sanctuary makes possible: a safe space where bears can rediscover trust, curiosity, and joy – regardless of their scars.

One bear’s freedom, a bigger truth

As Vietnam moves closer to ending bear bile farming, Sen’s story reminds us why this work matters. Most remaining bears are old and frail. Many, like Sen, have suffered silently for years.

But with your support, we can give them a second chance – just like we did for Sen.