WSPA tipped off authorities to stop the bear baiting event, and distributed information about animal welfare.

Pakistan--Wildlife authorities in the Punjab Province of Pakistan put a stop to one of the largest bear baiting events of the year, after being tipped off by WSPA representatives. Kalandar gypsies arriving with their dogs and bears at an annual festival in the village of Shah Jewana were turned away, marking the first time that authorities have intervened at this festival.

If allowed, the event would have featured twenty separate matches between large, trained fighting dogs and tethered bears that have been de-toothed and de-clawed. Each match lasts for three minutes, and the dogs are usually pulled off of the defenseless bears before they are fatally wounded, so they can be used in future fights. WSPA has been actively opposing the cruel blood sport of bear baiting for over a decade, and has urged the enforcement of anti-cruelty laws which prohibit the practice.

"This is fantastic news," said Victor Watkins, WSPA's Libearty Director. "WSPA congratulates the Pakistan authorities for their swift and decisive action to stop this event from taking place. We look forward to continuing to work with them to stamp out bear baiting forever."

In addition to alerting authorities to the event, WSPA representatives hosted a stand at the fair that was well-received by thousands of visitors who learned about animal welfare and why bear baiting should no longer be tolerated.

The dogs are pulled off the defenseless bears before inflicting fatal wounds, so that the bears can be used in future events.

Earlier this year, Pakistani wildlife authorities also intervened and stopped an event in Pir Mehal in the Punjab Province. In all, seven out of 17 events have been stopped during this bear baiting "season" which typically lasts from November through April each year. WSPA is working with the Pakistan government to eradicate bear baiting events altogether.

In 2001, President Musharraf issued a Decree calling for the enforcement of the existing ban on bear baiting, reinforcing Pakistan's Prevention of Cruelty Act (1890). Musharraf also directed that confiscated bears should be moved to a sanctuary built by WSPA in the North West Frontier Province. WSPA gave control of the sanctuary to Pakistan in 2002, and it is now home to seven rescued bears.