Princess Alia Foundation (PAF)

A Glimpse of God

2012-01-28T11:40:00.000+02:00

With 2011 now in the background and the New Year upon us, I have the privilege of having shared another term of Growing Together with familiar faces…Boys have grown taller, a little leaner, girls have become braver, teachers more relaxed and confident…and parents less anxious.

Most of all this past term, I have been struck by how the children have overcome their fears, the fear of the outdoor spaces, fear of animals often twice their size, fear of animals usually only seen in fearsome films, fear of strange people and unfamiliar faces…Some of the children have made such advances over the past year that their schools are recommending that they join mainstream schools in September 2012.

There is a father who travels his eight year old daughter from Irbid, a town well to the north of Amman; he makes the forty-five minute trip every week so that he can widen his daughter’s circle of experience, give her another dimension to her very limited childhood. He earns 350JD a month, and specialized schools in Amman cost up to twenty times that much for a year’s tuition…So he drives her to Growing Together, and has tears in his eyes when he says the only words he speaks in English: “Thank you.” He says thank-you because after only four sessions with the horses, his daughter has changed from a terrified child who would not go within fifteen feet of a horse to a girl who is laughing and chattering while riding one.

Then there is K…he has taken three months to even catch hold of the horse’s lead rope. His mother is exasperated. K used to love all animals until his cousins teased and scared him with the family German Shepard. Since starting Growing Together, K showed his latent desire to interact by anxiously holding out grass to his horse, but was still unable to bring himself to touch one…Finally, after three months, K found the courage to hold the rope, walk alongside his horse, and tentatively touch her with his finger. It’s a start.

Another child of ours, A, a very bright and smart boy, who has always been very enthusiastic to lead his horse anywhere on the site, was still also very nervous about touching the horse…this is one of the frustrating ironies about children that have simply been “plonked” in a saddle without developing any real relationship with their mounts…and resisted all attempts to get him onto his horse for several weeks.

One day, towards the end of term, with the help and support of his teacher, I insisted that A be placed on his horse. Iago, as always Mr. Reliable, stood like a rock, as A’s teacher and myself struggled to get A onto Iago’s back…

A struggled too, he kicked, he screamed, he cried..but I felt that we should persevere and his teacher supported my choice…All the time we kept talking to A, encouraging and praising him when he was eventually sitting on Iago’s back…He was still crying, but I could see that he was also taking in his surroundings from this new perspective..he began to cry quietly, stopped shouting…then he stopped crying, and then he started to smile. Within less than ten minutes his life had been changed. A sat on top of Iago and talked to his teacher, and when we set off to walk up the hill A was smiling and laughing, totally fearless.

It might be easy now, within this second year of Growing Together, to become complacent with confidence, to take for granted the humility of the horses, the courage of the children, and the dedication of the teachers and parents. It might be, but then one remembers that first word, that lightening smile on the first tentative reaching out to touch a horse, that laugh of joy, and then it hits you, and you realize that we are still being blessed, we are still seeing miracles, we are still being allowed our glimpse of God.

Suyen Talken-Sinclair.

Project Director,

Growing Together.

Hero - A beautiful account by Masa Dajani Grade 5B ACS Amman

2012-01-20T16:08:00.001+02:00

A class at the American Community School in Amman were set a piece of homework where they had to write about their Hero.

The piece below was written by Masa Dajani in Grade 5B and is piece which warms the heart and soul and yet again shows us that our children have the answers and hold the keys to a brighter future. Surely we must sit up and listen and give them a chance to make us better human beings...

On behalf of all of us at PAF we invite you to enjoy this beautiful account and we thank you Masa for allowing us to share your message and to learn so much from you.

Hero
By: Masa Dajani 5B

My hero is a horse. I chose a horse to be my hero because he is beautiful, and most importantly helps so many kids in need. I love horses for that reason.

In Jordan there is a place called Growing Together that takes kids that have autism to see the horses because the kids can relate to the horses. They make physical contact and emotional bonds that helps the kids cope with their daily life.

When I am upset I go to the stables to see the horses. Horses make contact with your body, making you feel so much better. It is almost like horses are therapeutic because they have a sixth sense and that is seeing through you to help you when your sad. When you are nice to a horse, he will care for you and help you.

People that are lonely and have a hard time making friends can make friends with a horse very easily. Horses have been making friends with humans for over one million years. There is a movie called Black Beauty and it’s about a horse that saved a boy’s life because the boy saved the horse from choking.

There has been lots of children and adults that have been saved by a horse. For example on an island in the Netherlands horses saved people from drowning because they didn't know how to swim and the horses were born to swim.

Horses are heroic to me and lots of other people in the world. The world wouldn’t have as many people without horses. If you are free, go for a horse ride and you will feel what I’ve been feeling. Take a picture of your big smile because you will have one as soon as you put one leg in your stirrup

Our Year in pictures 2011 at OneTrueMedia.com

2012-01-01T23:45:00.001+02:00

A great deal has taken place across the world during 2011. As we welcome the new year we look back at 2011 and the some of the work accomplished...

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

HRH Princess Alia Al Hussein's presentation at the WAHO conference held in Doha, Qatar, November 2011

2011-11-08T22:14:00.000+02:00

A full copy of the presentation given by HRH Princess Alia Al Hussein:

Although the title of this talk is "equine Human relations in today's world," I hope you will forgive me if i begin with some reflections upon the wider relations between humans and animals in Yesterday's world, by way of "setting the scene", and trying to see not only where we are now but how (how on EARTH!) we got to this…

The relationship between animals and humans in the times of our ancestors was much clearer I think. Hunting was for most a necessity yet performed with appreciation of and respect for the hunted creatures-it was not purely massacre, and it was set within a real framework as was most interaction between our predecessors and the natural world. There were cultural and religious procedures that were STRICTLY OBSERVED, unlike today, where most guidelines are often purely mechanical, performed (if at all correctly) in a perfunctory manner and with no real empathy.

Buddhism not only respects- but avoids in any way jeopardizing the lives of -even the tiniest insects. In Shamanism, creatures are often regarded by individuals as their spiritual guides, or "totems". Nearer at hand, and more familiar to most of us, the three monotheistic religions all have strong guidelines for interacting with the natural world: guidelines based upon mercy and respect. We are told that King Solomon altered the course of his entire army to avoid trampling a colony of ants: Islam and Islamic history, from the Prophet to his Companions and on, has directives and requirements for the treatment of animals and even plants which are stricter than many welfare organizations would dream of, surprising though this may seem. One of the most telling examples is the event where the prophet Muhammad, also at the head of a huge army, posted a soldier to stand guard over a dog with new born puppies by the path. The sentry was to stay with her until all the troops had passed by, in order to ensure that nobody would bother them. Islam also, while fully acknowledging Christ's ability to heal the sick and raise the dead, cites an earlier of his miracles : his modeling of a dove from clay and then breathing life into it…his ability of ,with God's Guidance, giving life- the "greatest gift of all!" - was not restricted to human beings…

The fact is that our predecessors-and not so long ago either- only a generation or two in some parts of the world- were ALL aware of the sacredness of life whatever the species and - especially in the near and far east-they were also fully aware of animals as sentient beings. Yet In spite of St Francis of Assisi and many others who famously interacted with all creatures and had firsthand knowledge not only of the sentiency but sophisticated thought processes of all creatures , it took until 1999 for the modern European Community to officially recognized the sentiency of animals!

So there has clearly been a degeneration in the attitude of humans towards the rest of Creation… and this has accelerated along with every other aspect of worldly life, during the past century. Huge numbers of humans with their associated needs- magnified into DEMANDS thanks to both public and social media- call for equally huge resources to be put at their disposal. Logistics do not necessarily encourage humane attitudes-pressures prevent us from thinking about the essentials, often, and the one thing that most of us are encouraged to do is to "Get ahead", -make more money- bigger names for ourselves- provide for our loved ones-often by giving them more and more intrinsically superficial values and gadgets which take away from our interaction with the natural world; from what is REAL, GROUNDING-and terrifyingly- ENDANGERED!

Horses. We are all here at this WAHO conference because of some form of interest, love-commitment, not only to horses but particularly to the Arabian horse-the "versatile", horse- the Improver-whose genes have contributed to all warmblood breeds and several others as well.

We felt, I believe, fairly safe and cocooned in our "Arabian horse world", as recently as twenty years ago. Yes, there were muffled outcries at the surfacing abusive trends in the training of show horses across the ocean, but while we abhorred it we also felt slightly complacent that THIS would never catch on anywhere else. I, for one, WAS alarmed at how soon that complacency was cracked when the European and Australasian show scene began to follow suit, but I was still naive and SURE that "Once ALL the Arab countries get really involved in the Arabian Show scene this will change-they will NEVER accept these excesses. We will be horrified and vocal and help to wake everyone up, and put our resources behind stopping the abuse. I believed it fully- but sadly, whether through our blind belief in the word of trainers and dealers, or through willfully blinding ourselves to the reality behind reactions of horses in the ring, or ANYWHERE when "Stood up", by most handlers, -WHATEVER the reason, we have not done and are not DOING right by our horses. I -regretfully but openly-include Jordan in this, because while do truly try our best to ensure that our SHOWS do not feature abuse, and make our owners aware of the issues, there are still many owners who do not "GET IT", and while loving their horses still either do not recognize OR turn a blind eye to bad handling and scared horses.

The show scene has become actually a TRIAL for many spectators to attend. Those that do not have horses entered don't come because it is not a pleasure to see a vast majority of frightened animals. Those that care too much to subject their horses TO abuse often feel that they can’t compete with the "professional" scene- and so give up-many are giving up their whole LIVES with horses when not being able to compete against the wind. Yet attempts at strict rule enforcement are often countered by pleas for leniency towards the "professionals, "with comments like "they are only doing their JOB- it’s their livelihood." In truth, it is ACTUALLY those relative few who are ruining the livelihoods of many, along with the sanity and wellbeing of their possibly beautiful but internally damaged charges. Exaggerating? When you walk through a barn full of fabulous deep straw bedding and big looseboxes, wonderful ventilation and (no doubt) the BEST food and medical care-ALL the "pluses", cited commonly by the professional trainers and handlers- you may be impressed… until you see a large strong beautiful mare prick her ears at the sound of one famous handler WAY down the corridor and collapse on the ground in a heap, scrabbling in the lovely deep bedding to get OUT-to go ANYWHERE away from that voice, even out through the back wall of her cement loosebox. Then you are not only unimpressed- if you are like me, you are feeling physically nauseous. Especially when the overseer entrusted by the owner with this huge project shrugs sheepishly and says, " Russian bloodlines", or some equally ridiculous excuse.

So the Show scene is not in great shape-and from the little I have seen, this is true of several other Breed shows to greater or lesser degrees. Much stress, much travel, little consideration for the horses. The more dangerous aspect for the future-aside from the breeders and owners leaving the scene (and who are the ones who ensure continuation of any breed) -is the negative transformation of the Versatile improver, the tough prepotent intelligent BRAVE (and yes, beautiful) Arabian into a cowering or aggressive neurotic flimsy travesty; not only off-putting to non-Arabian horse people, but with questionable potential for any life outside the show ring and a very poor prospect for the long-term viability of the breed.

Some of us decide to give other Horse sports a try-because we love horses and everything about them-the smell of their breath, their feed, their leather tack- just being in some way a part of their world. So we try endurance- polo- dressage- racing. Endurance and polo, though much derided and often cited as abusive by "show people", wanting to accuse other equine sports of abuse (as if two wrongs ever made one right)...both of these sports-and i do mean when performed PROPERLY -are often loved by the horses. Endurance involves exercise, and when training and feeding are performed realistically and there is not the typical modern stress of ego to WIN AT ALL costs (too often the horse's cost) then it can be a great sport. A real partnership and mutual understanding between equine and human; reciprocal respect and affection; sustained physical effort culminating in a wonderful bond- and often deeply fulfilling performances resulting from really knowing each other . Sometimes spectacular unexpected wins, but in their absence STILL enormous satisfaction and contentment after a long days' effort spent in amicable competition with other like- minded friends both human and equine, concluded safely. In such cases, it is a Great sport.

Polo also, for the horses with an aptitude for the game and trained and ridden by good sensitive riders, can be highly enjoyable. Many polo ponies appear to truly LOVE the game. I know of several "old hands", well trained ponies who actually do a little shift of weight or skip to correct the seat of an inexperienced rider, and are themselves great teachers. As with any other horse sport, if the human part of the equation has too little consideration or too much ego, then of course it can be disastrous. Too little SKILL on the rider's part is often less of an issue, because horses, like other speechless creatures, understand our hearts and are willing to put up with much physical discomfort quite contentedly as long as there is love and consideration. As long as the rules are clear. As long as things make sense. It is when things become bizarre- when punishments given for standing in a natural way- or REWARDS are given for achieving a required pose which is UNCOMFORTABLE- praise for something painful- punishment for not doing ANYTHING WRONG. That is when horses can start to lose their minds.

Racing, show jumping, dressage-again, in the modern world, these have problems. We all know about the huge number of non-starters, young horses not up to the promise of their pedigrees or who broke down too early- sent to meat factories. Horses who may need a few months of rest to be great competitors NEXT year, but are put down because it is quicker to claim insurance on them and buy a new one to compete on- and if successful sell on-FAST before it fails and the price goes down. On and on selling and ridiculously huge prices until the creature fails. Then, unless it is a great breeding prospect -off to the meat factory.

For dressage, the old time consuming basic training, of the Classical schools such as the Spanish riding School of Vienna and the Cadre Noir of France, are largely ignored in modern dressage. These techniques and training plans took into consideration the essentials such as the maturity (both physical and MENTAL) of the horses for each stage: the necessity for protecting developing joints and tendons and for preserving sensitive mouths. Riders were not allowed to TOUCH the reins of a horse until they had completed I believe it was two years of training and would not compromise the horses by heavy handedness. No bleeding mouths, no over-flexion, no "blue tongues", to sicken spectators. Those classically trained horses last, they perform their exercises for many years before retiring. The average age of competition horses in Europe a couple of years ago- i am not aware of the more recent statistics-was EIGHT years old. Disposable beings.

And yet, though there are so very many horses that don't make the grade and are sent off to slaughter or are just neglected- do we stop breeding so many? Do we attempt to only produce realistic numbers for which we can do our best to guarantee a reasonable future? Oh no, instead we breed by ever more artificial means- extracting the last possible penny from the parents with no consideration for THEIR part in the lives they beget: stallions are harvested often much too young , totally ignoring the truths behind the Chinese philosophy which equates male energy with the "Life force", itself…. MARES are also often harvested mercilessly for embryo transfer- not just in rare cases where a rare strain or bloodline is attempting to be preserved-which COULD perhaps justify embryo transfer on a small scale- but for other reasons-selfish reasons. How often have we heard, "This is NOT a brood mare-she is a SHOW MARE that produces babies ". She needs to keep her figure to attend shows- or alternatively, it may be pure greed in wanting to have as MANY eggs as possible to sell from a famous expensive mare. So she is pumped with hormones again and again. I think not only the ladies among you, but any gentleman who has a wife daughter or sister will understand how such things affect our well-being… and these poor mares rarely if ever are allowed the fulfilling conclusion of it all- a warm live foal to love, teach, and nurture.

I frankly find equally offensive the fact that the carrier mares-often large gentle souls but not esteemed enough to be bred themselves-are regarded with amusement and derision when they produce the "Jewel", they have been carrying on behalf of the more aristocratic genetic dam. I have seen them laughed at and called ugly while they are still serving their required purpose, nurturing or even still carrying the other's foal- no respect at all. And it is worth remembering that surrogate dams DO contribute to the physical as well as temperamental make-up of the creature they carry. Humans cannot attempt to "Play God", without serious repercussions ... I apologize for depressing you, but if we just close our eyes and ears to the truth, then we really cannot help to make the future brighter for anyone. There IS however good news. There is at last a large, loud, and I think serious outcry about show abuse. (I know because having the questionable benefit of being on the ECAHO Show Commission I am quite regularly being upbraided for being ineffectual and useless) - and I don't blame those who say that -any committee is often a good way of delaying action, and with the best will in the world, action is often HORRIBLY slow. But i DO believe that the present outcry, if sustained, may help us to bring about change-by waking up the owners to reality- to the suffering of their horses- by empowering officials, from judges to DC s to ring stewards to being far more effective-and helping push us into far more practical action and decisions.

As for the trainers, I also believe that many are as desensitized to what they are doing, as are children playing violent video games to real war footage. I know from myself that the more I think about and really become acquainted with the feelings and senses of others, the more I become aware of HOW desensitized I WAS, often not perceiving things which are in fact truly distressing. So instead of just criticizing the trainers I DO think that we need to actually TRY (at least) to get them to understand what the effects are of what they do.

One example- A horse who was having serious episodes of bizarre stress-sudden, hysterical behaviour- apparently flashbacks. With the help of a horse whisperer a story unfolded-and I do realize that many of you will dismiss this as fantasy, but bear with me- I ghoulishly -and in view of the almost self-damaging violence of the episodes expected a tale of beatings, the infamous cattle-prods, etc etc. But instead there was a show arena- identifiable from the description - then some "shaking", (flapping of a bag or plastic thing to just wake up the young creature in the ring-nothing violent nor mean- but disturbing to the youngster. Then a lovely box, security- a solid box not a temporary show one (this fitted with the identification of the Show arena and fitted with the horse's history, as did the whole story, but the "whisperer"-or "listener" if you like- knew none of this). Wonderful sense of peace and security in this box, but then the door opened and someone came in and began shaking and jazzing the horse up-AGAIN-and though it was not cruelly meant nor threatening, there was a sickening sense of "EVEN here there is no PEACE",.. the security shattered… Now how many of us would think that this would be THAT upsetting? A young horse at a show, people interested to see him after classes- visit his box, ' come on, wake up now, look good"… but to HIM it affected his whole sense of order and there was no security anywhere- for years. Now this story may be sheer imagination on the part of the Whisperer, merely coinciding with the known facts horse's real history It may be that this horse WAS horribly abused, but the apparently banal and understated events described made it so much more plausible to me...it is NOT, as the trainers may think-just serious beatings and real pain that does the damage-it can be FAR FAR smaller seemingly harmless patterns. AND IT IS UNNECESSARY. THAT is what we ALL need to underline.

We know that horses are great strong creatures-even a foal can be hugely difficult to manage if it decides to be obstreperous- but this merely underlines the obvious fact: If horses did NOT have a basic willingness to work with humans, if they were INTRINSICALLY vicious uncooperative creatures just waiting for a chance to "Be the boss", "Take control", or harm us, they would not throughout history have been such wonderful companions, so patient and tolerant of our mistakes and harshness (whether intended or otherwise) or so willing to be our workmates and our friends. Horses have individual characters which in a herd will form parts of an intricate whole, each with a role according to his or her natural abilities and each complementing the roles of the others. There are outstandingly sensitive ones- perceived as "flighty"; their natural ability to sense danger, find food and water, and to take fast decisions allows the herd to rely on them as Scouts. These will probably not be best suited to certain pursuits in which loud noise and total obedience-lack of individual initiative-are main components. There are the natural "defenders", often strong males who are commonly perceived as DRIVING the herd, but in fact are "guarding the rear", protecting the rear or any vulnerable spot while THE SCOUT -often a strong minded and quick-witted MARE- leads them out of danger. Such a defender would not be idea for a job where he has to be mindlessly obeying orders however alien to his understanding.

The key is not to assume that horses are lying in wait waiting to "take over"…it is in making things as clear as possible, gaining their trust and in return respecting and trusting THEM. Thus, when we require something which does NOT make sense or is alarming to them, like crossing a busy street. They will accept that we know THIS urban and man-made environment, and trust us not to put them in danger- especially if we in return trust THEM in THEIR natural environment, don't force them to walk past a grove of trees where they may have sensed a predator hiding, or to take a path which they sense is unsafe footing… In any partnership, trusting each other to do what is best for both and to take the lead in their own field of "expertise” is the best way. By the same logic, forcing an unsuitable job on a creature whose individual talents and NATURE are in opposition to it, is a recipe for problems. We should understand that and not set ourselves AND the horse up for failure by insisting what a specific creature must do if it is intrinsically unsuited to it. Otherwise yes there MAY be huge battles, and because we have more technical and physical ways of controlling the horses we may force them into our mould- but at great loss to both sides-including physical danger and worse-loss of HUMANITY.

We need to comprehend that when horses refuse a request or directive it is usually because they physically cannot do it- or find it hard-like obeying a particular order while on the wrong LEG. Or because it is painful-they may have a physical issue of which we are not yet aware- or again they may be just asking us to confirm what it is we want. If they have performed a new task well several times and suddenly seem reluctant to keep doing so, it is probably not stubbornness or stupidity- it is most likely, " Are you SURE you want this AGAIN? We already DID that over and over"… Sometimes they are "testing", us, asking us who WE really are-horses are amazing teachers and- when permitted- healers….

Back to the good news- there is a HUGE trend towards people wanting to use non damaging and kinder methods in their interaction with horses. However - and I do feel this is important to understand- some of the "Natural Horsemanship" methods- most notably those involving chasing away the horse in a round pen-can be quite as damaging as physical abuse-perhaps more-as they strip the creature of its will - FAST and what is left is an apathetic shell. True there was no outward cruelty and CERTAINLY the intention is good, but it is based upon incomplete or partial truths. True, wild horses keep newcomers outside the group until they have assessed how (if at all) they will fit into the complex herd system. If accepted-both newcomer and herd having had up to three days sometimes, in which to observe and figure things out-then there is usually a smooth blending- no fighting and injury-risking, nor damage to the valuable grass around by churning it up in the process. If NOT accepted, the newcomer has the option of finding other company-it is not hemmed in, being chased away but with nowhere to GO, and only total submission and loss of identity as the alternative. That way is a form of domination- and we all know that broken minds and wills can be far harder to heal than broken bodies. So if you want to try natural methods, do read up on them from several angles, and use your own sense and observation as well. You are probably more in tune and have HEARD more from your own horse than any expert can teach you…trust your hearts.

We all know that horses are not just enchanting, a healthy pastime for teenagers, ego-boosters, work companions or facilitators, entertainers - but as I mentioned earlier, they are ALSO healers. Arab tradition tells us that they bear good fortune, that they ensure Divine assistance to their owners in caring for them, that they are comets combatting negative forces. I believe that they really do filter away negative energies, but they do more than that. I would like to end this talk with a few happy stories-stories of our horses at the Growing Together project run in Jordan for children on the autistic spectrum and others with emotional disorders and some physical special needs.

This project was started only a year ago, using mainly retired horses, some are rescue cases-none had any specific training. The children meet the horses, and within minutes each child has been "chosen", by one of the horses -the bond between them acknowledged by some physical indication on the part of the horse. The program develops at the individual speed required by each child- some are extremely anxious by just being outdoors- some want to sit on the horse from day one-others take weeks to get CLOSE enough to touch one. But there have been some seeming miracles and almost if not all have shown truly amazing progress. From non-speaking at ALL, to calling out to the horse-from agoraphobia to roaming around the hillside confidently-from lack of coordination to playing football with friends, from lack of self-expression to joining in discussions and making choices.

One little boy of seven had poor physical coordination, and had never spoken at all. He was walking down the hill with "his" horse, past an enclosure of wildlife rescued from local zoos. Suddenly Suyen, who runs the program, heard what sounded like, "WOLF". She turned to the child's carer in surprise at hearing the English word. Again they heard, "WOLF", and now the child was pointing at the wolves watching through the fence. The carer was almost in tears; yes the little boy heard English spoken at home, but never had he spoken in ANY language before. Several months later, his physical development continues to grow along with his verbal vocabulary- but he is probably the first child ever to be PRAISED for "Crying "Wolf"!

Another small boy who did speak occasional words (but never linked two to make a phrase) attends with his mother, their school not being able to afford extra carers to accompany the children on these visits. (The sessions are all a free service, but carers attend with the children.) This mother was thrilled when, on days that she would tell her child, "No school today", he would respond with, "Husan (horse)". The fact that he was clearly drawing conclusions-linking lack of school with a reason- a visit to the stables-was a huge step in what she saw as his development. After a few weeks of walking near a mare, he progressed to leading her himself and then came the best moment of all for his mother: he had never expressed emotions before, but suddenly he said in Arabic, "I love horse", and went up the mare and kissed her. He has continued progressing so fast from then that he not only chats away to his family-he is about to join mainstream school this year, God Willing.

On that note, I will conclude this talk with a short film of how the relationship between horses and humans CAN be….. I hope the talk has not been too exhausting or boring, and thank you for your patience.

An update on (T)Eddie!

2011-10-25T19:40:00.000+02:00

It has been five months since we waved (T)Eddie off from New Hope as he made his way to Austria. Below is an update from Stefan who is in charge of our little friend...

Eddie is preparing himself, also like the other bears, for wintertime. He eats a huge amount of food, especially weight full things like grapes, meat and nuts. This year we had big luck with the beech nuts. A mass of them fell down to the ground and the bears had only to pick them up. Because of that, all bears are in a very good condition of their weight.

Eddie seems also ready for hibernation. He got his winter fur and looks now like a furry ball.

The temperatures are sometimes close to zero at night and there is also frost. Eddie prefers it to stay in his cave in the afternoon and during the night. He brings all his toys into it and plays inside because of the bad weather.

He still wants to play with us. I try to find time every evening to run with him, of course with the fence between us. We are running up and down and he gets very tired (also me). After some minutes he goes his own way and searches for food or has a nap.

Between him and the other bears is still no possibility for co-housing . Brumca keeps him at distance if he comes to close to the fence. Maybe next year at mating-season Brumca will be open for something new! Now we are hoping that Eddie goes to hibernation in the wintertime.

Have a look at the pictures to see just how well he is doing!

Growing Together... Where Miracles Happen

2011-06-23T12:29:00.000+03:00

For the last couple of weeks before I left Amman, and certainly since my return to the UK, people have been asking me,

“WHAT is it that you do DO?”

And in my attempt to answer that question I started thinking…..

Nine months ago, like a child, the thought of Growing Together emerged quietly into reality from the depths of dreams and half-formed ideas…Thanks to the Princess Alia Foundation, those feelings and beliefs were given the opportunity to take form and become real, bringing together hope and actuality into a programme of equine therapy for children with specialised needs.

In those nine months, we have had many stories of positive behavioural change, much anecdotal evidence of happier children, amazed teachers and thrilled parents, and day to day experience with children who are interacting and communicating more with the world around them.

There is the fifteen year old boy who no longer sits all day inside four walls afraid to leave his room, the boy who talks to his mother in sentences instead of sounds, the girl who summons what little upper-body muscle tone she has to hold herself upright independently on her horse, the boy who is wheel-chair bound and was able to be placed on a horse and rode, and the boy who spoke his first word ever when he pointed and said, “WOLF!!”

We have other stories too of course, stories of constant frustration with parents who refuse to share their children’s successes because of the social taboo in having an autistic child…stories of teachers who refuse to be pro-active with their students because it’s easier to sit doing nothing than to engage…stories of sponsors who moved the goal-posts and left us shaken….. Shaken, but not stirred… Growing Together will continue to function regardless of the vagaries of sponsors for at least another year.

During these past months, several professionals in the fields of psychology have approached Growing Together with the intention of committing the work to paper for academic review, but as I have told them, how can you measure a qualitative change in quantitative terms? There is no way we can record the changes to the children in a scientific manner because we do not have a control group, and the variables are infinite…But regardless of this obstacle, we have still had graduates observing the programme and commenting upon the positive changes they have observed in children’s behaviour. Their findings will be written up later this year.

For me personally, Growing Together has been a huge blessing and gift from the Universe. It has allowed me to work daily with animals I love, admire and respect, and to share those feelings with children and people that might otherwise never encounter the true gentleness of spirit that resides within every equine…The healing Power of horses has been recognised for centuries among many peoples, and it is truly an honour to be able to introduce the concept of equine therapy through Growing Together.

I have also been blessed with the help and assistance of many exceptional individuals, among them Lt. Col. Faisal Sherif, the Director of the Royal Stables, and his staff. Ghalia Norredin, the ever solid and organized Director of Development and Programmes at PAF. Our amazing “Go-Getter”, Sarra Ghazi Nasser, the CEO of PAF, and photographer extraordinaire, the teachers of all the schools that tolerate my lack of Arabic but still manage to co-ordinate with me, and of course, HRH Princess Alia…I cannot stress strongly enough what a truly genuine and beautiful person we are blessed to have at the head of the foundation…Unlike so many people in positions of influence, Princess Alia actually DOES make a difference and IS the good we want to see in the world.

When the mother of a dear friend asked me that question,

“And, what is it you do?”

I told her the answer was very simple….

“I walk up and down a hill all day leading horses, and God does the rest.”

Suyen Talken-Sinclair

Project Director

Growing Together

Little Teddy-Eddie embarks on a new journey...

2011-05-30T23:55:00.000+03:00

Over the past seven months which Teddy-Eddie has been with us at New Hope, we have watched him grow, play, learn to trust and overcome some of his bad memories. We have shared with him many hours of laughter, joy and some heart-ache too.

We have been pushed to the limit of our creativity trying to come up with new ways and toys to keep him busy and we are proud to say in some things we have been successful! The one factor we are united on is that this little bear has stolen all of our hearts and will forever hold those pieces with him.

We have been blessed to have had the knowledge, experience and support of many who have shared in our love for Teddy namely; Stefan Knopfer (Arbesbach Bear Park,Vier-Pfoten International), Sharon Holden (all the way from Australia), Suyen Talken-Sinclair, Annelie De-Klerk and Herbert (Lionsrock SA), and most importantly the staff of New Hope - Dr. Zain Shaheen, Thair and Ismail without whose devotion, time, willingness and care we would not have been able to provide the care needed for this particular little one. There are two very special individuals who must be mentioned...Erik and Josje Dorssers, from Holland who have supported Teddy throughout his stay at New Hope. They have offered him the best possible food, enrichment, care and love and for this we will forever be in their debt.

Since the spring, we started to notice that although Teddy was in very good physical condition, we were not able to provide for his mental health. He was missing the one thing we could not provide...his family. Having been separated at birth from his mother and sibling (who sadly did not survive), Teddy was in desperate need of the physical and mental stimulation of his bear family. Having contacted Vier-Pfoten International and with their generosity and help the decision was taken to move Teddy to Abersbasch Bear Park in Austria with the hope that he may be adopted by a grand old female bear already happily settled at the park. The wheels were set in motion. We built the crate, did the paper work and started the count down to the start of Teddy's next big adventure.

This morning, May 30th 2011, we set off bright and early (5:00am to be precise!!) to New Hope to load Teddy into his crate and bid him a bon voyage.

Paperwork ready and in hand all that was left to do was to say 'Au Revoir' (never goodbye) and watch as Teddy started the first leg of his journey to his new home and God willing a better life.

The day passed slowly for all of us as we watched our phones for news of Teddy. Finally at 3:00pm the news we had been waiting for came; Teddy had arrived safe and sound at Vienna airport and after a quick vet check and some fresh water he set off on the second leg of his great adventure - his car ride to the bear park.

We are happy to report that Teddy arrived at the bear park at 7pm and was greeted by a 'Welcome Teddy-Eddie poster along with a big basket filled with a little teddy bear, lollipops, fruit and sweets and after long and stressful day of travel Teddy was released into his new enclosure and quickly set about exploring his new surroundings.

We wait anxiously for more news on the progress of little Teddy-Eddie and meanwhile we take with us the lessons we learned through our time with Teddy; those of heart break, joy, love and trust...

Picture courtesy of Erik and Josje Dorssers

Spring at Growing Together

2011-04-09T13:12:00.002+03:00

With the coming of Spring, and a profusion of flowers and greenery on site, Growing Together has acquired itself a new logo. Many thanks to Iona Fournie-Tombs, who took my rough concept and made it into a cyber-friendly reality!! As you may realize, the horse in the design bears a striking resemblance to Iago, and it is no little coincidence that the horse also sports a small star!

In my trusty “Insight Guide to Jordan” I recently read that Islamic Traditions attribute their (the horses’) source to the South Wind:

Then God took a handful of wind and fashioned from it a chestnut horse. He said, “I have created you, Arabian Horse; I have moulded you from the wind; I have tied Good Fortune to your mane; you will fly without wings; you will be the noblest among animals……God then blessed the horse with the sign of glory and happiness and marked his forehead with a star…”

Although I can claim total ignorance of all of this when I did the first rough sketches for the logo several months ago, I think it is strangely fitting that it should all have worked out so beautifully.

Another new addition to Growing Together is a wonderful play apparatus, generously donated by Shakir Mohammed Esmayeel of EAM Textiles. The play equipment had been in storage for a year waiting for “the right cause” to come along, and we were lucky enough to have been judged worthy! The children really love the equipment, as can be seen in some of the photographs, and it is a real Godsend when the children have to wait for their turn with the horses.

In fact, some children are SO enamoured that they rather play on the slides than on the horses! But that is fine too, since the real purpose is to have the children enjoy themselves and to interact socially. And with the clement weather and increased rainfall, our lake now holds many dozens of frogs and toads which some of the children take great delight in watching.

For those of our followers who are Arabian Horse enthusiasts in the UK, there is now an article on Growing Together in the Arabian Magazine edited by Sam Mattocks. It is hoped that the international audience of the magazine might include a child-loving philanthropist or two!

Although it has only been a couple of months since my last Blog entry, we have had some amazing developments at Growing Together with the children.

The boy who has had high-anxiety issues for many years will now walk down the track happily beside a horse and, with encouragement from his teacher, holds onto the lead rope as well. Three weeks ago he finally found the courage to actually touch the horse, albeit for only a fraction of a second, but he did repeat the gesture two more times! Too fast to be caught on camera though so we have no photographic evidence …Yet!! Nonetheless, the memory of the smile that flashed onto his face as he realized just what he had done is an image that I will never forget. Sheer unadulterated JOY.

Another young lad, about nine years of age, has lived with the complications caused by his mother having toxoplasmosis during pregnancy. When he came to Growing Together he was distant, gazed vacantly and did not interact in a pro-active manner. At school, his teachers now tell me that he recognizes them, he communicates his likes and dis-likes, he follows instructions, he is more independently mobile and he can now drink independently as well.

The boy featured in the magazine article, A Boy Called, “Horse!!” is now not only speaking but actively making choices at school and inter-acting with his peers on a daily basis; he expresses opinions and makes choices, he plays football.

One of our other boys who also started out anxious of the horses and barely verbal is now impatient to join in with the horses and happily jumps onto their backs without any hesitation. He is now able to communicate with his mother, making connections between her comments and future actions. When she tells him, “No school tomorrow,” he replies with “Horses!” and if she tells him it is “Friday tomorrow” he tells her “Farm!” because that is where they go on Fridays.

Suzanne, one of the few girls who come to Growing Together, is eighteen years old and has very elderly parents. They have cared for her all of their lives within the home, and only recently has Suzanne joined main-stream schooling. Understandably she was very anxious and scared of the unknown outside world, and showed her anxiety by biting and kicking anyone close enough to be a target. Her first session at Growing Together was a huge challenge for her and her teacher, but only three weeks later Suzanne is accepting of the horse which walks beside her and also willing to ride on one, albeit very slowly.

These are just some of the amazing anecdotal testimonies that we are receiving from teachers and parents whose children are involved with the Growing Together programme. We cannot say, of course, that the changes are due to Growing Together, but we can say that they have taken place after the children started coming to Growing Together.

Finally, my special moment happened in the foyer of the Holiday Inn Hotel at the Dead Sea...

My friend and I were waiting to return to Amman when we both spotted a lady on the other side of the room with a large child held on her hip. Due to the size of the child, the woman’s dress had hitched itself up around the child’s foot, exposing quite a decent length of leg. As soon as she was within earshot I called out to her, “Excuse me, your skirt….” And she quickly put the child down and came over to say thank you. As she was walking away her boy turned slightly and I recognized him as one of the children who comes to Growing Together. He is a challenging child, caused in no small part by his hyper-sensitive ears which appear to be an almost constant source of discomfort. The doctors say there is nothing wrong and so do nothing to help him…he is often seen screaming with his hands over his ears, or throwing himself on the ground in a “tantrum”…

“I know your son,” I said, ‘He comes to horse therapy with me.” At which point he turned around and saw me from about ten feet away. Immediately he ran over, threw his arms around my neck and kissed me on the cheek! I don’t know who was the more surprised, me, his mother, her friends, or his teacher when I relayed the story soon after. And then he smiled and walked away into the dining-room, very quietly and composed.

This week he came to the site with a new piece of personal wardrobe…baby blue ear-muffs. Watch out for those photographs sometime soon!

Suyen Talken-Sinclair.
Growing Together
Amman.

The price of freedom...

2011-03-02T22:21:00.000+02:00

For weeks now the world has been focused on the political events of the Middle East, watching in disbelief as thousands head to the streets in protest. The events which occured in Egypt are still on the minds of many, however one area of events is not being covered sufficiently (if at all) in Egypt and internationally. This is the very real suffering of many people and their animals, namely camels, horses and donkeys which are used in the tourist business in Egypt. An extremely large sector of the Egyptian population rely on these work animals as their sole source of income; one widow, for example, supported her twelve children through her two horses-both of which have died in the past weeks from lack of income to feed them- and two rented camels which were also in dire straits. With the events of late in Egypt, needless to say, the tourist business has ground to a halt. Where does this leave these families whose sole income was from income made through these animals? The picture below says it all (this may be disturbing for some)

Two local Egyptian organisations, ESMA and then ESAF sent out worldwide appeals for help to assist them in funding food and medical assistance for the work animals, also providing some hope for the families and owners that they will not lose their only source of future income.

Vier Pfoten International and the Princess Alia Foundation, have joined forces and a team flew to Egypt to do just this. While Vier Pfoten have a team on the ground and are focused on the treatment and feeding of the animals, The Princess Alia Foundation has complemented their work by also providing funding to alleviate the direct needs of the people and the families who find themselves at their wits end.

On the 26th of February the Vier-Pfoten team, along with a number of volunteers (mainly student vets from the University of Cairo) set up their base camp and work began... The animals were suffering from severe malnutrition and many of them also had skin disease and open wounds. All the animals were treated and de-wormed and food supplies were issued to the owners through a system of vouchers. Each animal was given the appropriate amount of feed for one week (50 kgs per camel per week and 35 kgs per horse/donkey per week) in addition to this the owners were also given Alfalfa to supplement the basic feed. At the end of the work day of the 1st of March, food supplies for one week were provided to over 400 camels and 500 horses and two veterinary clinics were fully operational and treatment of the animals was well under way.

Vier-Pfoten and The Princess Alia Foundation also supported ESMA and ESAF in their efforts to provide feed to working animals and Vier Pfoten will co-ordinate closely with these two organisations in order to reach an effective and efficient system of distribution and to ensure that everyone receives the necessary assistance.

The pictures below (credited to Mihai Vasili) were taken in Egypt and show the extent of the suffering. We hope that we may all continue to assist in the feeding and treatment of the work animals in Egypt for as long as possible, and ensuring that the future of the families who rely on these animals for their own livelihoods is a bright one...

Any and all donations would be greatly appreciated.

Please contact the Princess Alia Foundation at paf.jordan@gmail.com

or

Vier-Pfoten International at http://www.vier-pfoten.org/

Growing Together...

2011-02-02T14:21:00.000+02:00

With the first month of the New Year 2011 about to come to a close and the Chinese New year of the Rabbit creeping into view, I thought it was time to bring everyone up to date with the latest developments at Growing Together.

The project has been running for a little over two months, and has been an unqualified success. We now have seven schools involved, with sessions held either before or after the noon-day divide, depending upon the schools’ individual transport schedules. Then, after school hours, we try to see children who can come privately with their parents, family or therapists, on a one to one basis. This allows people with special needs other than autism to become involved, and we have one boy attending who has been blind since birth, as well as others who are hearing impaired. The plan for the future is to extend the Growing Together programme to InSha’Allah includes children from local orphanages and those who are victims of domestic violence and/or abuse.

Our horse therapists continue to amaze and inspire their human counterparts! Iago has proved himself a true diamond in the rough, happily spending many hours with the children with unending good grace and patience. In one instance, working with a young lad who has high anxiety issues, Iago stood like a rock for half an hour while the boy summoned up the courage to move from twenty feet away to just inches from Iago’s side. Iago is a horse that truly gives of himself with the children, and he is definitely one that I constantly rely upon when I need a horse for a child who is nervous and afraid.

Reem, our “queen”, continues to look down her royal nose at us adults but is extremely gentle and caring with the children. While known as a “spirited” ride, when working on the Growing Together site she is the epitome of quiet grace. At one of the last sessions at the end of December, one of our children had his first epileptic siezure while he was walking with Reem down the track.. She immediately stopped and waited motionless beside him, while his carer did what needed to be done in this upsetting situation. The boy thankfully recovered very quickly, and once back on his feet wanted to continue walking with the horse! Of course, this had to be forgone for an immediate visit to his doctor.

Zippo, the tall, dark and handsome one, who won the hearts of ALL the teachers and carers, has been retired from the programme as he obviously thought it was too much like hard work! Every time we went to lead him from the paddock he would gently nip his handler as if to say, “No thank-you, not today,” so I have bowed to his preference and replaced him, although none of the others are as eye-stoppingly stunning!

As the programme expands, we are adding horses to make certain that the old favourites do not end up over-worked and jaded. Istabraq is still with us, as are Areej , Burkan and Chance (who is now happily a part of the herd and no longer an outsider!), but we are now also have a big bay gelding called Jericho and another called Skeeters…for "Mosquito," I am told! Alain continues to make the odd appearance when we need just one horse to familiarise a child with the programme, and he certainly does love to flirt with the Ladies as he is walked over from the Stables.

Due to the increase in numbers I have recently started advertising for volunteers to help with the weekly sessions, and have been very fortunate to have gained a young lady from Canada who is living in Amman, Iona, and a fellow Englishwoman, Jenny. I know that there are others who also hope to join us very soon! Without the help of such good people the project would be much harder to keep running smoothly, as the more horsey people I have helping me, the longer the children can stay on the horses during a session.

Another exciting development is that the local glossy magazine Luxury has generously offered to run a series of articles on the various PAF projects, including of course Growing Together, and I am hoping that we will also soon be featured in some of the Arabian horse press in other parts of the world. It is such a tribute to this old and noble breed that they can literally just “step into the shoes” of 'animal therapists', without any lengthy or specialised training. So often the Arab horse is maligned as being either just a pretty toy at the end of a lead rope or a mad, unmanageable creature that is too untrustworthy to turn your back on. Well, if nothing else, Growing Together continues to prove how inaccurate and prejudiced those perceptions are.

In much the same way, the children we work with are also defying stereotypes, as they continue to come out of their shells and interact with the horses and the natural world around them. One boy, who used to always just sit and stare vacantly at the ceiling, now really interacts with not just his horse but also his teacher. We have many instances of children who start out nervous of the horses but who soon find a link with them and then want to sit aboard one…and often do not want to come off! Some children have never managed to focus on anything and yet find that they can not only hold a rope but can also use that rope to get a certain response from their horse, and do so! For many of the children I work with, it is a new experience to be out in Nature and to be allowed the freedom to enjoy that nature, not having to worry about getting dirty, getting wet, or simply running loose without having a hand held. This freedom is a wonderful gift, and for that the site donated by HRH Princess Alia is priceless and unique.

Finally, the most touching moment, and there are many when you work with special needs children and animals, came with our blind boy, who although fifteen years old now has a mental age of eight due to complications in his incubator soon after birth. His parents came to me through one of the schools that I work with, because they wanted to find him some form of enrichment beyond what he was already doing.

His first session, one to one with just him and his parents, was derailed because all he could focus on was how hungry he was and dear father had forgotten the picnic in his haste to get to us! However his second session was far more successful. To begin with I asked his Dad to explain to his son what he was feeling as (let’s call the boy Ben) Ben stood besides Iago (yup!) and felt him all over. His Dad told me that Ben has a toy horse at home so he knows what one feels like…of course, Iago is slightly bigger….We then set off down the hill with Ben holding onto Iago and his Dad holding onto Ben. As we walked, I asked his Dad to explain to Ben what the sounds and smells were that he would be experiencing as we went, and Ben walked confidently along holding onto Iago’s rope as he managed the rocky track. When we returned to the yard, I asked if Ben would like to get onto Iago, and this he did…Now, imagine what that actually MEANS, a blind boy actually being trusting enough to get up onto a horse for the first time EVER…and then, we took our first step. And then the second. And by the third step Ben threw back his head and laughed…and laughed and laughed. It was the most wonderful moment and both Ben’s father and I just stood spell-bound at the sheer miracle we were witnessing. To remember it brings tears to my eyes; on the day, Ben’s father did well not to cry.

And so we go on. Growing Together, although relatively new, has been able to establish itself as a programme that is having amazing results. It continues to be offered free of charge by PAF to all individuals involved. Without the vision and confidence of the Princess Alia Foundation none of this would be happening. When I first came over to Jordan at the invitation of Her Royal Highness and Sarra Ghazi, their CEO, I was eventually told, “This will be your baby, YOU will have to run with it”…… Well, MaShaAllah, I’m still running………

Suyen Talken-Sinclair.

30 January 2011.

Shaballala's Final Request...

2011-01-21T19:00:00.000+02:00

New Hope has been up and running for one year now, and while we have Thank God had some truly wonderful experiences with our "Guests", most of which have either been released into the wild or sanctuary enclosures as close as possible to that ideal , we have also had certain heartbreaking losses. While it is much nicer to read stories with " Happy endings", I do feel that the creatures who did not have that privilege-at least not during their earthly existence-also deserve to be mentioned here, for they were also players in this story and worthy at the very least of our acknowledgement and thanks for the lessons they left with us.

Our first loss was a beautiful little bulldog puppy, one of the batch of ten puppies and kittens mentioned in our blog under "The Terminal". They all arrived dehydrated and chilled right through. In spite of all our efforts she was the one who did not 'make it', drifting away the following morning. We comforted ourselves with the knowledge that she died after a night of love and nurturing, and not in fear and stress in a freezing hangar at the airport. Her group was just one of the hundreds of shipments of animals bred in puppy mills-in this case Eastern European - from probably unhealthy unvaccinated parents, weaned far too young, often themselves not vaccinated either with little inherited immunity and sent in internationally unacceptable ways to pet shops and dealers around the world. They arrive often without correct paperwork, either sick or susceptible to picking up disease, spend some time in an unsuitable pet shop and then are bought either out of pity or by someone who does not know better- spread their diseases like Parvo virus, and cat flu, and often die within days, breaking the heart of a child who was so thrilled to have this pet. PUPPY MILLS and the illegal trade of animals NEED TO BE STOPPED.

We also lost three striped hyena, who had been sent to another wildlife centre to be rehabilitated and released. Sadly, they were clearly not regarded as worthy of the care they deserved, one had to be euthanised due to an injury and two others we brought BACK to New Hope to be treated by us-sadly both were too far gone and also died, but again, amid warmth and respect and truly great efforts from our staff-Dr Hussein sat with one hyena's head in his lap for one whole night giving it strength and support. We are VERY grateful that six of these truly amazing creatures WERE released into the wild-one, a pregnant female, we HOPE delivered her litter safely as the RSCN reported that cubs tracks were seen shortly after in that area; we pray that this means her babies WERE "Born Free!" Our three AFRICAN (spotted) hyenas were returned to Africa, thanks to Vier Pfoten (and GREAT thanks to ARAMEX) and they now also run in a large natural enclosure in Lionsrock sanctuary visited by the occasional babboon brave (or silly) enough to climb inside! Most of us ,even the more experienced wildlife members of our teams, had to acknowledge that the Hyena in particular did much to alter our awareness: this species is normally NOT well regarded by humans- ( portrayals such as in The Lion King do not help) and are thought to be nasty, treacherous, cowardly, and in many places are also endowed with supernaturally negative folklore. From spending time around those in our care, we must speak up for them and say that they are courageous, adaptable, clever (NOT sinister) and POLITE. Yes POLITE! In the zoos here , they were among the most terribly frightened creatures, cowering in terror but snarling in defiance as keepers would show off by going in to take photos- thinking that it is "macho", to have a reputedly dangerous animal cringe at the sound of your voice. It is time we stopped stereotyping ANY species. The Universe is a WHOLE and EVERYTHING has its place. We owe it to the future health of the WORLD not to ignore, underestimate, persecute or neglect OR EVEN MISUNDERSTAND any part of it willfully. I recall one of the visiting sanctuary guests saying she felt, "a little bit ashamed", at having had a neutral or slightly negative idea about Hyenas, having now interacted with them. THAT is someone with SENSE and HEART. Ok, most of us don’t know about MANY MANY creatures and plants and insects but none of us have the right to say "Ugh", or "Yick",...it could well be playing a very specific and necessary role in the cycle of the Universe!!!

When we first established New Hope, we were amused to be greeted daily by a beautiful white and tan wild dog. She evidently roamed the area around there, but would come almost flying across the fields when she saw any of us arrive. She became a kind of mascot, eventually staying almost all the time around the centre, a happy presence and wonderful with new "guests",(particularly the wolves) who she seemed to have a way of reassuring by her presence. One visitor actually referred to her as, “Staff", which in a way she WAS. One day she did not come out of her outdoor kennel. When she did, it was clear that she had either been injured-hit by a car? Hit on the head? -or was suffering from some problem possibly a stroke. She fought for weeks, pottering about and eating and still trying to do her 'rounds'. She did not seem ready to give up, and we did not feel it right to take that decision -then one day she disappeared. We searched in vain for days, but it was not until a couple of weeks later that her body was found at the edge of the sanctuary land near a bush. I like to think she took herself off to die in her own place and time. She contributed a lot to New Hope, and even when her cheerful presence and fluid beauty of movement changed, she was still very much part of things-an example of loyalty and somehow responsibility. Jordan's wild dogs are WONDERFUL pets, brave, clever, loyal, and it is a real shame that because they do not have a ' fashionable', breed name they are less in demand than the poor creatures that flood in from puppy mills because of their BREED NAME and are often even if they survive their handicapped past, totally unsuited to our weather or the domestic situations in which they are landed.

Another sad episode was the batch of Cheetah cubs. They were intercepted by customs officials and sent to us by the RSCN to take care of. They appeared to do well for a couple of days, eating ravenously and chirruping like birds. There were four of them, and had been brought in two apiece in plaited rope sacks. They were cold and terrified (it was still winter) when they arrived but we were fortunate in having (again thanks to Vier Pfoten) a team including a big cat vet here at the same time as the cubs, and their collective concern from day one was that these four were much too young to be weaned. Cheetahs are in great demand as exotic pets for they are relatively easy to handle and 'safe', but they are also highly endangered and they are very FRAGILE internally, for all their speed and elegance. These little ones were no exception, and succumbed one by one to stress and lack of immunity. The last one died during the visit of yet another expert who did all humanly possible, including an operation at HCAW whose director and staff were truly helpful. The little cub had by then been fighting to survive for ten days, and was revived three times, causing real heartbreak and a sense of "what did we do wrong", but the post mortems of all showed the same thing-the cubs had suffered from very long-term stress and lack of immunity and had no chance. More recently, a good friend in Kuwait contacted me in search of help/advice for a cheetah cub which he had rescued and had as a pet. Sadly this one did not survive either in spite of many experts' assistance and cohesive input, and again the verdict was that these creatures must simply NOT be weaned too young, they have delicate systems made for THEIR lifestyles and the minimum chance we as humans should concede to them is a good START, enough time with mother to be strong, develop well and be confident enough to face the world without her-not stuffed into a shop or a zoo or circus too young, scared bewildered and already PHYSICALLY compromised.

Among the most dramatic patients at New Hope were two Bengal tiger cubs who were again confiscated by customs authorities and delivered to us by the RSCN, cramped together in a small wooden crate and reportedly intended (illegally) for a local zoo. They did have papers and were apparently siblings bred in a zoo in Syria. We named them Voovoozella and Shaballala- Vier Pfoten had again kindly agreed to home them at Lionsrock and as the World Cup was much in our minds when they arrived, South African names seemed suitable. Voovoozella's was particularly apt as in spite of their small size (yes-they were TOO YOUNG TO BE WEANED - AGAIN) both had unbelievably resonant deep roars and while the male was more inclined to trust humans after realising that we were not going to intentionally pressure or intrude on them, the young lady had clearly decided that humans were not creatures she wanted anywhere NEAR them-and indeed she would growl if any of us had the great honour of a friendly look from Shaballala, or the temerity to stroke him with a cautious finger through the bars- and having had the human offender back off apologetically she would then go over to her brother and cuff him or tell him off.

The two of them seemed to be doing well enjoyed swimming in their little pool, grew big and played and reassured a third tiger who was rescued from a local zoo in a state of dehydration malnutrition and great stress. They were due to leave for Lionsrock in early February, CITES permits done, and Aramex again kindly assisting. Then Shaballala began to walk strangely, as if he had a back problem. A vet from Germany flew over to see him and took blood tests which showed that he had suffered from some infection but he apparently responded to medication which our selfless vet Zein travelled by car to and from Beirut in one day just to obtain for him as it was not available here. We became very sanguine , but he relapsed and became in a very few days much weaker and unable to move much behind. Vier Pfoten once again rose to the occasion and altered their plans, obtaining permission for him to go to a specialised clinic in Germany. The two nights prior to departure, he had evidently been moving in and out of his night room ,and the MORNING of his departure he was on his feet walking, albeit weakly on his wasted hind legs-we were overjoyed.

Shaballala arrived in Austria and travelled to Germany. Sadly although he arrived safely, the news was not cheerful. The special scans showed tiny breakages in all his limbs, his pelvis, one in his spine. How could he have improved, and walked? Apparently tigers DO -they are floored by the first pain but struggle and appear to improve-then they collapse again with a new breakage...and what is the reason???? Large strong creatures like tigers, and also elephants, NEED ENOUGH MOTHER'S MILK to be viable adults; otherwise their system turns on itself and extracts calcium FROM THEIR BONES, however much we supplement from other food. He was weaned too young, and he didn’t really have a chance. The clinic in Germany were very kind, considerate, and understanding, and they let him go peacefully with our permission last night.

What does one say? How many more animals are we going to snatch and smuggle and breed in unsuitable conditions to satisfy our blind selfishness? Even I not so long ago, would have been thrilled at the thought of a cheetah as a pet, for example-and I say" even I", not because I am especially bright but because I actually HAVE tried to consider "the other", a little more, be it human animal or mineral, of recent years. But these creatures need to live THEIR lives, not just fulfill some silly image or whim of ours- our 'coolness', or 'majesty', at having SUCH a pet! Human beings far from home want to go back-even ones who have emigrated for whatever reason-they can be wealthier, healthier, freer, and mixing with others of the human RACE who speak the same language-but HOME is HOME. What makes us think that these creatures can be content in zoos, bullied in circuses, stared at with no privacy- exercised when it suits US? That is aside from the ghastly abuse of tigers and rhinos and other species for aphrodisiacs and folk remedies -hyenas are in demand for some part of their bodies to be used for WITCHCRAFT for goodness' sake!!!

It is time we realised that we are NOT in any way enhanced as individuals by these practices-we in fact are smaller, poorer, in our foolishness and arrogance. On behalf of brave Shaballala the little tiger who had to give up his dream of freedom in a big open sanctuary with his sister for the hopefully greater freedom of whatever tigers become after they leave their physical bodies, and who wanted to leave a message of hope for his species and ALL hunted persecuted and misunderstood BEINGS the world over- we in PAF do urge everyone to act, DO something-not just sign a petition, wear a T shirt, and forget about it until someone else touches you with a sad tale or photograph. Sign the petitions, wear the T shirts by all means, but we must all do MORE for the future of the creatures, this planet, and our own humanity, because what is being done is wonderful but IT IS SADLY NOT ENOUGH.

For those who love Disney's version of Tigger ... wake up or you may well find that you have no way to show your children the majesty and beauty of a tiger ....because Tigger may really become "The only ONE"!!!!!!

All about bears...

2010-12-24T15:51:00.000+02:00

Earlier this month we were thrilled to be able to move our two bears to their larger enclosures. The enclosures are outdoors encompassing their very own little ponds, and Balou even has a natural cave! The sight was chosen and designed by Stefan Knopfer, from Austria and Ahmad Sardar, and we have to say they have both an amazing job at creating interesting, fun enclosures to keep these two busy.

In order to complete the enclosures, Annelie De Klerk and Herbert came from Lionsrock in South Africa to fix the electric fencing. We enlisted the help of Hani who worked closely with Herbert and learnt how it was done.

Balou (our adult bear) wondered around his enclosure in the evening almost not believing that he was able to feel earth under his paws and spent most of his first night digging up everything he possibly could. The next morning when we arrived to check on him, he was nowhere in sight!! After a few panicked moments we found him settled very happily behind one of the natural bushes in his enclosure. Can you spot the bear!!!

As for little Teddie...he couldn't wait to get out of the crate and explore his new surroundings; born in captivity this is the very first time he is out in nature and it was a joy to see!

After much playing, Teddie found his was to his night room and after rearranging the straw lay down and went to sleep. This was a sight for sore eyes as he had not slept like this since he came to at New Hope.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who made this possible.

We now move on to the construction of outdoor enclosures for the Hyenas and would welcome your help and support.

Growing Together...

2010-11-03T22:00:00.000+02:00

One of the latest initiatives from the Princess Alia Foundation is Growing Together, an equine therapy project for young people on the Autistic Spectrum. Situated near to the Royal Stables in Al-Hummar, the programme brings together horses which have been rescued and rehabilitated with children in need of specialized care. Suyen Talken-Sinclair has come over from the UK to set up and run the programme, and we are very grateful to have her with us.

The site itself has been specifically designed to incorporate the natural flora and fauna, fresh running water, and nature walks with an aromatic garden, natural play area and indoor class-rooms. This has all been done with the intention of allowing children to relax and relate in a natural and holistic manner, as well as giving them an opportunity to interact with their equine therapists.

Growing Together started life as an idea only two months ago, but as if driven by the wind of Allah himself, the programme has gathered momentum and come to being in a remarkably short time. Less than two weeks ago the designated site was little more than a clearing under the trees, but since then, thanks to the amazing miracle-working powers of Major Faisal, the Director of the Royal Stables, and his team of workers, the area is now one of astounding beauty, complete with flower beds and an area of green that any cricket team would be envious of!

The therapy itself was inspired by the work of the Horse Boy Foundation, and the very positive results that equine therapy is having with individuals on the Autistic Spectrum in Europe and the United States. Equine Assisted Therapy is also being used overseas to treat a wide range of anomalies, such as eating disorders, truancy, anti-social behaviours and domestic abuse.

The first children arrived to be a part of Growing Together on Sunday, the 31st of October, and in homage to the date, some real magic was achieved. Every one of the children was amazed by the natural world around them, thrilled to be able to walk and run in the fresh air, and of course, to be able to interact with the horses. One of the children made his own personal history by speaking for the first time in a voice louder than a whisper, calling out “Horse! Horse!”

The horses, six in all, were wonderful, taking in their stride without hesitation or upset their new role as equine therapists. There is Reem, a very royal mare, who knows just how regal she is. Then Istabraq, a gentle lady who was a great favourite with the children. The third mare, Areej, is the true matriarch of our little herd, even if Reem thinks differently! The boys are represented by Iago, a chestnut gelding who catches the eye and is very relaxed. Burkan , himself once much abused, was really keen to meet all of the children, and made certain that he was the first in line to be stroked. Finally, the tall, dark and handsome one, Zippo, a black beauty with the most gentle and trusting of souls.

There are two more horses in the programme, Alain, a stallion who is a real gentleman, and Chance, a chestnut gelding who is very shy and wary of other horses. For this reason, Chance will only be used when there is a need for a one to one private session, and, of course, Alain needs to be quartered separately to the ladies!

The Team!

After the first session, meetings were held with four other schools in the Amman area and each school has asked to be involved with the programme, making a total of thirty-two children who will be attending the sessions! These sessions are offered free of charge to the schools by PAF in the hope that children from all backgrounds will be able to access them.

Another Chance at life...

2010-10-30T11:57:00.000+02:00

It has been a very busy time at New Hope, with a number of new arrivals, but throughout the last few months there has been one animal who has been on our minds and hearts. We were alerted to an adult Syrian Brown Bear in one of the zoos who was exhibiting very bad stereotypical behaviour, especially after the loss of his mate. The teams have been in and out of the zoos, assessing his situation and we have even had a number of individuals expressing their concern for this fine bear.

We are pleased to report that this gentleman has finally taken lodging at New Hope. He arrived at New Hope last week and seemed quiet and quite withdrawn. With the usual quick action and support, Vier Pfoten immediately sent out a bear specialist, Stefan Knopfer, who is a vital member of their Bear Park in Austria. Stefan came over to assist with settling our new guest and also to set about building a large outdoor enclosure. Yet again we are inspired by commitment and support of our partners, Vier Pfoten, and would like to express our thanks and appreciation for all that they continue to do.

Over the past few days that this bear has been with us we have noticed that during the day he likes to curl up in his night room, enjoying the privacy which he has now been afforded, and he is active during the night, where he takes a dip in his bath (literally a bath tub which we installed in his enclosure) and hunts for the food which we hide around his enclosure during the day. This aspect is very important as it provides him with essential enrichment. he has especially enjoyed the fish which we put for him in his water bowl and his bath!

Bears are extremely intelligent animals and need a great deal of enrichment in order to keep mentally happy and stable. We regret that this has not been the case in the past for this one bear, who is withdrawn and very depressed. We are hopeful that with the right amount of enrichment, peace and respect, he may recover and live a happier life with us at New Hope.

As we are trying to give him as much space and privacy as possible we are afraid we do not have many pictures.

Construction of the new enclosure has started and we would appreciate your support through donations in order to provide these animals with the best life possible. For donations please contact the foundation on paf.jordan@gmail.com.

A Lucky Save...

2010-10-29T21:41:00.000+02:00

Along with young Eddie the bear cub, there was another young cub at risk at the zoo. This young one was a 3-4 month old tiger cub. He was found immobile in his enclosure and everyone said he was 'just asleep'. At closer investigation the vet saw that he was severly dehydrated and in need of immediate medical treatment. After further investigation, the team was told that there were in fact more cubs with this little one, but sadly they passed away. It was a major priority for the team to get this cub to New Hope and start treatment.

With great relief we were able to get him out the same night and when he arrived at New Hope, although he was slightly dazed by his trip, he darted straight out of his crate into the warmth and comfort of piles of straw in his new enclosure. After some initial treatment and careful observation, he even became interested in his neighbours, the two other tiger cubs at New Hope.

It was a difficult few days with the young cub where we watched him closely and monitored his eating patterns and movement. He seemed to be very interested initially in his fresh water and milk, however the food we had given him did not seem so appealing. Anxiously we waited to see if he would eat or if we needed to intervene. Two days after his arrival we were thrilled to see that he had eaten a whole bowl of food and was even starting to play and communicate with his friends!

Although we still watch him closely we are more confident that he is now on the right track!

Lions & Tigers... Now Bears oh my!!

2010-10-29T12:37:00.000+02:00

Last week the teams were assembled for another zoo inspection, which they do regularly, in order to ensure the health and safety of the zoo animals, as far as possible. On their routine inspection they came across a sight which will haunt all of us for years to come. In a tiny enclosure, no more than 3m by 3m they found a 9 month old bear cub. He was sitting in his stark enclosure knawing at his own paw. It is known that a bear can actually chew off his own paw through frustration, depression etc and the bear expert on the team was fearful for this little one. After the vet inspection, immediate recommendations were issued that the bear be removed from the zoo in an attempt to save its life.

The letters were issued and signed by the authorities and within a few hours the teams were assembled again for the confiscation and they set off on their rescue mission at 5pm the same evening. A couple of hours passed and we feared the worst until we received a phone call saying that he had been loaded and they were on their way to New Hope.

the truck pulled in to new Hope at 9pm and as the doors of the transport opened we were met with the site of a terrified little brown bear pacing in his crate. It was obvius that the confiscation of this little one would in fact save his life. We settled him quickly in his new enclosure where he immediately set to work exploring, playing and eating anything and everything in site! That night we had to tear ourselves away from him hoping that he would have a good night and we looked forward to the next day of play!

Arriving at New Hope the next morning, we were met with call from little Eddie, which he is now called, as he waited for his playmates, and we set to work installing a paddling pool and some new toys. The pictures say it all...

There is much work to be done with Eddie to ensure that he leaves behind his terrible experience and we are hopeful that he is on the right track. We will keep you updated with pictures and his progress.

The power of the world works in circles...

2010-10-02T10:20:00.000+02:00

PAF was extremely fortunate to have Linda Tellington Jones come and visit and give a workshop on the Tellington Touch. "The power of the world works in circles" Black Elk as told to John Neihardt. This is the basic movement of the Tellington Touch. You make circles holding your fingertips, your fingers, or your hand in various positions using various pressures. These simple circles are an entrance or a doorway into a whole different dimension of your relationship with your animal, explains Linda.

Linda goes on to explain that the cells that form each living being all share the same universal 'intelligence'. Every cell knows how to be a perfect part of a feather, a twig, or a paw. It knows its function in the universe. It is the circular movements you make with your fingers or hands which stimulates these cells making them work to their optimal capacity reminding them of how they should work and allowing them to heal the body. This is true of both animal and human as we witnessed first hand!

During her time here in Jordan Linda gave a workshop where she focused on the TTouch with horses. We saw one of the most challenging horses in the stables respond to Linda's gentle touch as she identified the areas of his body which were giving him pain. She then went on to ride him beautifully again using her method. The look on the horse owners face was one of awe, as he saw his challenging charge respond and work with Linda while he looked relaxed and happy!

Linda also worked on a number of other animals and with each one we witnessed the same communication and bond we had seen develop with the horses. We were even lucky enough to have her sort out some of our own aches and pains!

All round, it was a great success and we cannot even begin to express our thanks to this remarkable human being who not only travelled the world to be here with us and share her method, but donated all the proceeds of the workshop to the Princess Alia Foundation. I for one am convinced of the positive effects of TTouch and you will often catch me practising TTouch with the animals I come in contact with!

For more information on TTouch visit http://www.ttouch.com/

Another phone call!!

2010-08-30T16:14:00.000+03:00

Looking at my phone I instantly recognised the number and thought to myself, 'I wonder what animals it will be this time'. I was not wrong - my colleague at the end of the line told me they had just confiscated two young Bengali tiger cubs at the border.

Although they were small we were not prepared for the sight of them in the terrible crate they were in...

We very quickly set to work on their enclosure providing them with enough straw to disappear into comfortably, lots of logs to climb on and a small pool in which they could swim.

After an adjustment period the tigers began very slowly to wander about their new home investigating everything around them and finally even took a dip!

We hope that with a great deal of peace and quiet, respect, good food and space, the tigers will grow and become stronger until such time as we may be able to rehome them in an appropriate sanctuary.

An Update From Lionsrock...

2010-07-15T00:03:00.000+03:00

It has been many months since we said our goodbyes to Hope, Arandas, Muhawish, Amra and Khawla but we are thrilled when we recieve updates about how they are getting along.

The latest update shows that there have been many changes for our 5 friends, the biggest being the introduction of a new member to their pride - no other than our sweet Saba who joined the pride in June.

Below is the full update we recieved from our dear friend Hildegard Pirker at Lionsrock...

The 5 cubs, which had to be sedated for their relocation in the new enclosure, were darted and given first a thorough examination. As we had seen over the past months since they arrived, Hope and the smallest female Khawla developed sometimes severe limping most likely as a result of malnutrition, which we treated with oral medication. So it was the best opportunity while sedated to treat all of them with a boost of all the vital vitamins and calcium to improve their condition and prevent future problems in their growing development. The sedation was soft and not long after we placed them in their new enclosure, one after the other started waking up. While they were still dizzy and unstable on their feet, we could see that all of them immediately recognized that Saba, who arrived only 2 weeks ago, was now between them. Saba, which was since his arrival had been separated from the group, could now be inspected closely. Saba himself was also keen to finally smell and groom his new friends and kept following everyone excitedly until he made physical contact with each one of them. Hope was a little confused about this attention to the newcomer trying to get between Saba and the younger cubs, when she felt the introduction became to rough. Arandas on the other hand, as the 'biggest' male in the small pride, felt that he had to challenge Saba first, showing him his male qualities, before he decided that Saba was no threat to his pride and could become his friend.

At the end of the day, after exploring their new home, the group settled at their new little house, providing them shelter and safety for the night.

The next morning the group was already waiting keen for us to bring their food. Without any problems they came in the feeding area to have their first meal in the new home. The feeding showed that Saba was fully accepted by the group, as all of them fed peaceful together.

Seeta was all the time close at the fence watching their every move following them up and down the enclosure. Today she seemed to have overcome her curious excitement and settled calmly on her favorite outlook spot. As I mentioned in my last email, she is really amazing and when we put her meat with the next feeding in the feeding area, she did only hesitate a view seconds before she came in to fetch it with trustful calmness.

We couldn't be happier with the news that everyone is doing well and that Saba, for the first time in his life, has a family which he may now call his own. As for Seeta...the picture says it all!!

Stray Animal Control Programme

2010-07-06T14:02:00.000+03:00

For years, as in many other countries, the authorities dealt with stray dogs by using poison or shooting them. This, of course, does not solve the problem, all it does is create space for different dogs to take over the area and multiply.

The Stray Animal Control Programme is a long term programme which is designed to reduce the number of stray animals in a humane way. The process involves catching the animals, marking the area where they are from, performing castrations and vaccinating them for rabies whilst also tagging the dogs so they are not re-caught, and then releasing them back to exact area where they were caught. This ensures that no new animals move into the area, ensures that the animals are healthy and reduces the numbers as they can no longer mate.

In Jordan, this all started with Dr. Chinny Krishna of the Blue Cross of India. India was responsible for 55% of human rabies across the world. Once the programme was started in 4 cities in India, the incidence of rabies over 5 years was reduced to 0 and the number of stray dogs declined. Dr. Krishna visited Jordan in 2009 and met with a number of officials who all agreed that this seemed to be the best way to go.

In May of 2010, a team from Vier-Pfoten (Romania) came to Jordan to initiate the programme. The team spent ten days in Jordan where they started the programme and trained the Jordanian teams. There are two centres for the programme, New Hope serving Amman and the Jordan University of Science and Technology serving the North. The operations are under full swing and within one month of the programme starting the number of dogs who had been operated on had reached just over 200. This may not seem such a large number in view of the overall problem, however with the small number of vets who are able to perform the operations we are very pleased with the overall numbers. The vets are getting more confident each day and the operations are moving faster.

We are also very fortunate that international vets are volunteering their time to come to Jordan to assist in the programme. This enables out vets to continue their training and gain new methods of operating as well as having extra pairs of hands to help! We look forward to even more volunteers!

Jordan is the very first country in the region to adopt this programme at a National level and we are very grateful to all who are working so diligently to make this a success.

To our international and local partners for helping to get this programme up and running and to all those who have volunteered - thank you!

Another goodbye...

2010-06-27T21:52:00.000+03:00

In the very early hours of the 23rd of June we met at the New Hope Centre to load and bid a final farewell to Seeta, Saba and the three spotted African Hyenas who would be travelling home to Lionsrock South Africa. It was very bittersweet, as this time we would be saying goodbye from Amman as none of us would be travelling with them. However we couldn't be happier as we knew that they were going to the best possible place!

All the animals, except for Saba, were darted and loaded into the crates...

Saba calmly went into his crate as if knowing, though the journey may be long, he was off to a better place and sat waiting patiently to be loaded onto the vehicle on the first leg of his trip home.

The hyenas started to wake up before we loaded them and we were very pleased they remained calm throughout the whole ordeal!

Our friends at Aramex had come to our rescue yet again and sponsored the trip. Without them this would not have been possible and we were very proud to have them on board as our partners.

We loaded the crates into the vehicles, and after a last check of water, locks and the like we said our final goodbyes.

Each minute of the day and that night felt like an eternity as we waited for news of their safe arrival to South Africa. Finally at 1:00pm on the afternoon of the 24th we got word that they had arrived and all were well and safe! Pictures quickly thereafter...

En Route to Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary amid the World Cup mahem!

Seeta takes her first steps into her new enclosure.

She settles in well next to her future companion Simba!

The Hyenas waste no time stepping out of the confines of their crates into the freedom of their new home.

As for Saba; he was given a warm welcome by Hope, Arandas, Muhawish, Khawla and Amra (although Khawla did try to show him who the boss is!)

This is Arandas saying hello to Saba. They will be together on Monday 28th June, as they are still getting used to each other!

Although we are reminded every day of those who left us as we pass the empty enclosures at New Hope, however we are filled with joy and emense gratitude knowing that they are safe and free at Lionsrock.

Another failed attempt at a "zoo"...

2010-06-13T10:57:00.002+03:00

We had received word a few weeks ago that there was a request submitted to the government for the licensing of a new zoo in the north of the country. The government refused the licence due to the terrible situation we already have in the present zoos. Obviously we couldn't have been happier with the decision. A few days ago however, you can just imagine our surprise and actual horror at the news that they had gone ahead anyway and opened the zoo!

We immediately jumped in the car and headed up north to make sure this was true, hoping that it was just a terrible rumour. Unfortunately it was true and although the zoo had not been completed, there were some animals in already. One dog, two monkeys, a goose, ducks, chickens, guinea fowl, rabbits, porcupines and a vulture. There were other enclosures still under construction and as we understood the plan was to have lions, tigers and hyenas. This deal had been struck with one of the already existing zoos who were going to sell the animals to this one.

I won't even begin to explain the conditions the animals were in; I will leave it for you decide if it is right through the pictures below...

As you can see from the pictures above, there was no water, the animals were living in their own filth and there was no shade or enrichment for them. After a few phone calls to the government bodies responsible, the decision was taken to immediately close the zoo and confiscate the animals. Thanks to the very quick action and response of the teams, the animals left the zoo that evening and were rehomed at the appropriate facilities for care and rehabilitation.

The two monkeys came to the New Hope Centre where an enclosure was quickly converted in order to provide a safe haven for the newest guests!

On being released into their new temporary home, the little two spared no time in discovering their new area and seemed to enjoy the fact that they were able to climb on natural branches again. It was a joy to watch.

The commitment and quick action of the government and the response of the teams and the RSCN means that these animals will now have a chance at a good life and those who think they may get away with doing things they want without the proper approvals will also learn that rules and regulations are applicable in Jordan!!

Riding and Massage Therapy for Horses...

2010-05-29T18:48:00.000+03:00

An ongoing programme of great importance to PAF is the therapy and rehabilitation for injured, traumatised and retired horses as well as alternative riding methods which resolve problems for horses and riders. These methods do not include physical or mental domination of either party by the other.

The riding program is based on balance and heart to heart communication between rider and horse. No forceful aids are used; instead the horse is allowed to mirror the strength and weakness of the rider. In turn the rider reciprocally guides the horse to find his or her physical balance and confidence. This method of riding is used as a way of rehabilitation for previously lame or injured horses, as well teaching people a new and deeper approach to the work with the horses.

Along with the riding program there is also a massage program involving approximately 100 horses. In the photos two former polo mares are receiving treatment. The massage is used mainly for treating chronic or acute injuries, but there is also a program for the well-being of old horses, rescue cases and pregnant mares.

The film says it all...

2010-05-27T14:59:00.001+03:00

On the 15th of May 2010, three hyenas were released into the wild. The film here says it all...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7E8ts4USCDU

A Second Chance...

2010-05-10T20:54:00.000+03:00

Just a few months ago we were shown footage from the local zoos of a set of wolves showing extreme streotypical behaviour. This included throwing themselves from wall to wall within their enclosures, pacing one specific line within the enclosure hour after hour, and also the fear and panic at the sight of anyone approaching them was all too apparent. This is all caused by stress enduced by maltreatment and confinement.

In January 2010 these seven wolves were confiscated from the zoos and began their road to recovery. We, at the New Hope Centre, have been fortunate enough to have been a part of that recovery. Watching these animals learn to trust, watching them learn to play, their joy at having food provided daily, and watching the knots of stress in their bodies fall away as they basked in piles of straw in the sun. Their recovery was so succesful that it was seen as time to release them into a larger enclosure allowing them to live as natural a life as possible and form their own pack.

A location was chosen for the pack and work quickly commenced, and within a short time we were ready...

After a final check of the enclosure and the finishing touches, the wolves arrived and we gathered for the release, anxious to see how they would react to their new home. The first to be released was Bint Awa, who wasted no time at all and once her crate was opened ran clear to the end of the enclosure and disappeared between the trees.

The rest were then released and one by one they disappeared off to explore their new environment. Jack took his time to leave the safe confines of his crate, but in the end Lucy came back to check on him and managed to coax him out, much to our relief and delight!

We watched with pleasure as the wolves ran around, hardly able to contain their own joy at being able to run, the feeling of earth beneath their feet, the trees high above them. They were able to hide if they so wished or come out to say hello; our main aim was to provide an area for them to live as safely and as close to how they were born to as we possibly could. Watching them we knew we had achieved our aim...

We left the pack that evening with a warm glow in our hearts, knowing that we would forever remember how, what to us may seem like such a small thing, such as space, freedom, company and respect; to others means a second chance at life...

Seeta

2010-04-24T21:56:00.000+03:00

An injured lion is one who is at risk of infection, attack by the others in the group and may also become more agressive to handlers. This was the case for one poor lioness in one of the local zoos. During a routine inspection of the zoos, the team reported back that there was a lioness with a very bad cut to her front leg.
It was reported that a vet had not been brought in to tend to her wounds but rather her handler had haphazardly tried to stitch up her, not once but three times and each time with no success.
We quickly got into action and negotiated and managed to get her over to New Hope for the treatment she was in need of.
In order to ensure that she would be safe in the enclosure, we had to do some very quick reinforcements to the enclosure which once housed Hope...

Tha'ir getting to work on cutting the tubes.

Ilyas sets about welding the new mesh on the enclosure.

Finally she arrived. Although the wound was deep, thankfully it seemed clean. Unfortunately the fact that the wound is so old it has to be treated as an open wound, as any more stitching will not work.

We quickly settled her in her new home and she immediately dived into the straw and very quickly fell asleep, after inspecting her surroundings, listening to nothing but the sound of the wind and birds around her which is a far cry from the terrifying sounds of the zoo.

New arrivals...

2010-04-23T13:37:00.000+03:00

There is never a dull moment at New Hope, and we are tremendously thankful that we may offer the treatment to so many of the animals which are in need.

A few months ago there was a little cub in one of the local zoos who was being kept in terrible conditions and his physical state was even worse. He was on the initial list of animals to be confiscated. This is how he was being kept...

This poor little cub was in a bare enclosure, lying on a torn up matress with the horrifying sounds of the games around him and having things thrown at him by the 'visitors' at the zoo. When the team arrived at the zoo they were informed that there was no key. They were then told to move on. two minutes later this poor little cub had disappeared! We have been searching for him since January, our hearts breaking at the thought of where he was being kept.

Perseverence and sheer determination over the past few months has finally paid off! This little cub was finally found and is now nestled in a clean enclosure with lots of things to play with and a nice deep bed of straw!

He has a long process of healing ahead of him - he has no muscle especially in his hind quarters and we have a long way to go with assuring him that he can trust us. For now he is enjoying lying in the sun and playing with the various things we have put in for him and no longer will he hear the sounds of the games and screaming children which so obviously effected him adversely. His main job is to relax and heal!

Settling in...

2010-04-17T11:39:00.000+03:00

We awoke early the next morning anxious to see how the little ones were doing in their new enclosure.

First we passed by Cleopatra who ignored us magnificently! We expected no less. She was obviously pleased with her new home which sits next to a little river, surrounded by trees, with a glorious view of the park. She sat in her new home and after turning her back on us washed herself very deliberately sending us the clear message that she was happy to be here; our job was done!

As for the cubs - there is not much I can say other than the fact that they were feeling very much at home and after a big breakfast set about playing, basking in the sun and harrassing their neighbours! We were very pleased that they did come to us to say good morning, but only very quickly as there was much playing to be done!

The teenagers in the next enclosure are very interested in the new arrivals. Hope and the cubs are very quick to show them that although they may be smaller they are still very 'big' lions and they have no problem going straight up to them hissing and spitting!

As we left them that morning we knew, without a doubt that they would be happy here and looking around Lionsrock it was easy to believe that anyone and anything would be happy here!

The Release...

2010-04-16T00:16:00.002+03:00

The moment had finally come. After an 11 hour flight and a further 3 hour car journey across the beautiful plains of Africa, they had finally come home.

We stood on the the top of the hill, a group represented by more than fifteen countries, such as; The Congo, France, Austria, Romania, South Africa, The United States, The Netherlands, Egypt and of course Jordan, waiting to welcome the animals home. On the road at the bottom of the hill we finally saw the transport vehicle enter the park and there was a tangible feeling of elation amongst the whole group.

The first to be released were the magnificent French lions whose roars echoed across the park. Needless to say they were anxious and confused about what was going on and took time to realise they were safe. These particular lions were to be sold for a 'canned' hunt where lions are sold to people who then organise 'hunts'. Canned hunts are where hunters (who may pay up to 40,000 Euros) shoot animals who have been put in their path, often drugged, just to allow them the "satisfaction" of killing these magnificent creatures. For these lions, Vier Pfoten intervened and they will now spend the rest of his days safe at Lionsrock.

Next it was time for our lions and serval - the moment we had been waiting for and not really believing it would come. The whole party moved over to the enclosure where Hope and the cubs would be released...

The crate was in position at the entrance of her new enclosure and finally the time had come. Everyone held their breath, waiting to see if Hope would come out or prefer the crate, which is sometimes the case...

The door of the crate was opened and we all watched, and Hope very slowly took a couple of paces towards the enclosure. She needed some reassurance so Riyadh, who had cared for her during her time at New Hope, started to call from across the enclosure and lo and behold; Hope took her first steps into her new home...

Her first few steps were slow and steady as she tried to figure out what on earth the soft green stuff under her feet was! There was not a dry eye in place as we all watched with delight. Hope then headed straight for Riyadh; it was now her turn to reassure him that she was alright, although she was a little stiff from the extensive travelling.

Yet again - Hope was the star of the day as we all watched through our tears; tears of joy, tears of relief that she had made it.

We turned our attention to the next important task at hand; the cubs, now it was their turn. Again we got their crate in place and had a quick look inside before we opened up for them to join Hope.

Although they were a little anxious and unsure about what was going on we hoped that they would leave the confines of their crate to enjoy their new enclosure.

Carefully we opened the door of the crate and waited... Khawla took a few steps towards the entrance and we gently urged the others to do the same, but we were not so lucky. Hope! That is who we needed. We called her over and she answered our calls almost as if she knew she was to be reunited with her little friends. Closer and closer she came as the crowd watched in awe at the very big heart of this little cub. As soon as the four cubs saw her, they trundled out of the crate almost falling over their own paws. The five of them were off and running united after a very long trip, anxious to discover their new home together.

Now that we were sure the young pride was well, there was still one more task at hand...Cleopatra who was waiting patiently in her crate. Again the crowd moved on to the temporary enclosure made for Cleopatra, and for the final time that day, the crate was in position and opened. True to form, Cleopatra did not wait long. No sooner had the crate had been opened, we saw her elegant face appear from within and with a few sniffs of the fresh air and the lush green grass Cleopatra emerged from the crate and immediately went off to explore her new surroundings with not as much as a look at the crowd gathered around her or us! We who knew her in Amman were overjoyed and expected nothing less of our proud, graceful and brave friend.

There is a special plan for Cleopatra, after the winter she will be released on the park where she will be free to roam and meet the other wild Serval Cats who live within the beauty and safety of Lionsrock.

As we went to bed that night our thoughts were full of the events of the day. Five lions cubs and one Serval, all who had been kept in terrible conditions prior to coming to us, had made their final journey and at long last they were home. We fell asleep listening to the calls of the lions across the African plains, understanding even more what an honour it had been to be allowed into the lives of these magnificent animals.

Touchdown in Jo'burg...

2010-04-12T15:43:00.000+03:00

Our small group was ushered into a room at the cargo area in Johannesburg airport where we would await the arrival of our animals. "Just a few more minutes until landing" we were informed. Those minutes felt like hours; our anxiety at seeing the animals and making sure they had arrived safely was almost more than we could bear. This was our very first animal transfer but it was amazing to be a part of the process which was so proffessionally done by the team from Vier Pfoten and Lionsrock. Mr. Helmut Dungler and Dr. Amir Khalil reassured us at every step of the process that everything would be fine. Their experience and expertise and that of their team was visible and yet again inspiring!

Finally Marina (the vet in charge and our dear friend) popped her head round the corner, "They're here! I've seen them and they are all safe and well". Hearing those words was like music to our ears as we hurried along to a quiet area in the back to finally see them.

Marina opened up each one of the crates and we were able to see the animals for ourselves. Cleopatra, maintained her customary dignity and although interested in what was going on around her, was composed and elegant as always.

Hope was the star of the show. When her crate was opened she was clearly happy to see familiar faces, giving everyone a chance to tickle her ears, and showing off for the press who were there en masse to witness the very first re-homing of animals from the Middle East. The little ones were not as impressed and stayed in the back of their crate gaining much needed comfort from each other, while managing to pull some scary faces at the same time!

After many pictures were taken and a number of interviews given, our lions and serval were loaded onto the transport vehicle along with two adult French lions who had been rescued from a zoo in Toulouse, to begin the final leg of their journey home to Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary in Bethlehem, South Africa!

Hardly able to contain our excitement and relief at the fact that they had arrived safely, we piled into our cars and set off on the final leg of the adventure...

The first leg...

2010-04-12T00:38:00.000+03:00

Thursday the 8th of April 2010 is a day we will remember for many years to come; it was the day we said goodbye to our precious lion cubs and serval. They are on their way home...

8:00am we met at the New Hope Centre to start loading our precious cargo into their crates for their journey home. The first in was Hope who, although a little confused about what was going on, graciously obliged! Next were the cubs, Arandas, Muhawish, Amra and Khawla who with a fair bit of spitting and running around were safely loaded too. Finally it was Cleopatra's turn who, despite all the commotion, remained true to her form and took everything in her stride.

Once the crates were loaded onto the transport vehicle I climbed inside and tried to assure them all that although it would be a long trip it would be worth it in the end!

As we watched the truck pull out we all said a silent prayer that they would reach their destination safely. We turned back to the empty enclosures with a feeling of sadness but also true hope as they were finally heading home...

None of this would have been possible were it not for the support of ARAMEX who have very graciously sponsored the transport of these magnificent animals back to where they really belong. To ARAMEX we will be eternally grateful.

Working Team...

2010-04-02T10:57:00.000+03:00

Last week a working team from PAF went to the local reserve where a number of the confiscated animals were sent in order to start their rehabilitation programme. PAF has supported and continues to support the reserve through the provision of extra food for the animals and medical support.

One of the founding principles of PAF is 'partnership' and it is one which PAF works hard to maintain as the more we work together, the more we may achieve...

Moving one of the hyenas to a separate enclosure.

Our vets preparing to treat one of the hyenas.

Checking and cleaning the wound.

The hyena was then put back in his hide to recover quietly under the watchful eye of the team.

All in all a good day's work...

A Day At New Hope...

2010-03-21T20:33:00.000+02:00

We have told you all about the animals with us at the New Hope Centre, but never the never the engine driving the place! By that I mean the invaluable staff. We are lucky to have found a team of 3 permanent staff members who work all hours to ensure the care and safety of the animals. This team is headed by Riyadh who has a special way with the animals creating trusting relationships and re-instilling within them the fact that they can trust a human being. Along with Riyadh we have Tha'ir and Khalid who tirelessly work to make sure that all the shelters are clean, the enrichment is secure and all animals have fresh water etc...

Along with the permanent staff we have 2 vets from GAM who keep a watchful eye on the health of the animals and the latest member of our New Hope Team is Zain, a 5th year veterinary student who spends every spare minute she has with us and has proved to be a valuable asset to the team.

Without these committed individuals, our lives and those of the animals would be a great deal harder!

Riyadh (left), Khalid (centre) and Tha'ir (right)

Dr. Hussein and Zain treating a hyena pup.

Khalid on another trip back from the skip.

Riyadh busy preparing the morning meal.

Tha'ir helping out with breakfast.

Team work is the secret of New Hope's success!

A big thank you to all those who have helped, supported and dedicated their time to making the lives of the animals at the New Hope Centre a better one.

Just imagine...

2010-03-13T14:37:00.001+02:00

The room was small, had hardly any sunlight, no bedding and nowhere to escape the damp and puddles of water which was still there after the rains of the last week. There were puddles of water everywhere and the smell was one of damp and mould mixed with rotting bits of garbage which had been thrown into the room.

Sitting in the corner on the only patch of dry ground, her pride still apparent, not allowing any of this to break her spirit is a beautiful Serval. Her condition was seen to be very poor due to her prolonged diet of chicken feet and heads. She was in one of the local zoos.

The Serval is now at the New Hope Centre and recieveing the proper care and diet she deserves. We are pleased to report that she has adapted very well to her new environment and has plenty of space to move freely and many areas within her enclosure to keep her busy as well as provide her with the feeling safety with many areas for her to hide in.

She spends her days lying in ample amounts of straw in the sun and when it gets too hot for her she chooses to lie under the tree trunks and leaves which we provided her with. She also enjoys watching us come and go and is very interested with the other animals at the centre.

We hope we will be able to provide her with a happy ending and we will keep you posted...

A hard day's work and much more to be done...

2010-03-09T22:03:00.000+02:00

“We have zoos in Jordan?” is the usual response to the fact that there are zoos in Jordan.
It is with great regret that we admit that the facilities here are basically prisons for the animals they house. The enclosures are small, with no bedding. The animals do not have hiding places or night rooms where they may take ‘time-out’ from the hustle and bustle of the world around them and also this means that when and if the zoo keepers need to get into the enclosure for feeding, cleaning or watering they are also exposed to danger as well as the animal being beaten and intimidated so that it does not get close to the keeper. The animals do not have access to clean water, and in some instances do not have access to water at all! Many do not have shelter within their enclosures to provide protection from the cold or the heat. There is no bedding provided for the animals where most of them spend their lives on hard concrete floors in all weather.

These Lion Cubs were born at the zoo and have been living on a hard floor for all of their lives

This owl clings onto the fencing of the enclosure as it has nowhere else to rest. Owls are nocturnal however this owl has nowhere to hide during the day which only adds to its stress and ill health.

In an attempt to make life better for the animals within the zoos, the Princess Alia Foundation dispatched two working teams to one of the local zoos who had shown a willingness to work towards better standards and care for the animals they own.

The first team consisted of a wildlife vet from South Africa along with five student vets from the Jordan University of Science and Technology and one of our local vets from GAM. The student vets were completing a 10 day practical training course with the expert vets in wildlife who had flown all the way from South Africa to help with our situation here in Jordan. The experts came from the Johannesburg Zoo and Lionsrock Big Cat sanctuary, and we were truly blessed to have had them here!

The second team consisted of a team who would tend to the enrichment of the enclosures themselves, this team was headed by Wendy Willson again from Johannesburg Zoo in South Africa and members of the team from GAM.

The two teams arrived at the zoo in the early morning and set about their tasks for the day, the aim of the working teams was to assess and treat all the animals at the zoo and to do on site training for the zoo keepers in enrichment of the enclosures and also to train them in animal handling.

They quickly set to work…

The vets treated all the zoo animals; the birds being in dire need of help

A farrier, known as Chacha, was on hand to tend to the donkey's terrible hooves:

This shows just how bad the donkey's hooves were.

The left hoof has been done.

Meanwhile the second team got to work on upgrading the different areas within the enclosures…

Some of the animals watched in wonder as the teams worked...

but were quick to try out their new toys!

The owls were finally provided with a shelter and somewhere for them to hide away during the day. They wasted no time in doing so...

As for the monkeys; here are some before and after pictures which tell all...

Before:

After...

The suffering of these animals on a daily basis is ongoing and we are realistic in our knowledge that these zoos may never reach even the basic standards, but until there is a better solution we have to try to provide for them as best as possible. If that means that they are busy climbing tree trunks or have somewhere to hide; are being fed better and not intimidated by the zoo keepers anymore, then we are one step forward.

The Terminal...

2010-02-23T21:23:00.000+02:00

Four puppies and six kittens being imported into the country were left for over two days at the airport with no food or water. A call to the New Hope Centre came through from the Ministry of Agriculture, who reported that the animals were in very bad condition and were in need of immediate emergency treatment.

The animals arrived to the centre just after midnight and we were all horrified to see the state of them. The kittens were all stick thin, had oozing eyes, matted fur and were having trouble breathing. Two of the puppies were very lethargic and were barely able to hold their own heads up. We set to work immediately assessing the medical needs of each of the animals. In fact two of the puppies were near death and we spent several hours trying to rehydrate and warm them with blankets and heating pads. The kittens were able to eat on their own once their blocked noses were cleared and we settled them into warm beds after treating their immediate symptoms. All of the pups and kittens were estimated to be well under two months old and suffering from dehydration and starvation.

After working on the two pups in particular for a good four hours they seemed to be more responsive and better hydrated. We settled them for the night and hoped that they would all feel stronger in the morning.

In fact all but one were better. We sadly lost one of the puppies who had complete organ failure due to being in such terrible conditions for a prolonged period .

These animals were being imported from the Ukraine which is the main exporter of young animals to Jordan. The real crime here is that they are almost invariably much too young (they should not be weaned before 8 weeks) and moved without having proper medical papers and with no vaccinations. They are imported by local pet shops and then sold for extortionate prices to innocent people who want to own and love a family pet. The usual outcome is either the family ends up with the heart wrenching loss of the new pet or spends weeks trying to save the life of the very sick pet. Both cases are unacceptable and this practice should be stopped.

How many more before it is enough?

2010-02-17T20:09:00.000+02:00

Barely 24hrs after the arrival of the 4 lion cubs to the New Hope Centre, we received 4 cheetah cubs! These cubs were confiscated when trying to cross the border from Saudi Arabia through Jordan and on to Syria, the driver trying to disguise them as domestic cats. The customs at the border contacted the RSCN informing them of the situation and once they described the animals to the ranger, he knew without a doubt that they were exotic animals and immediately headed out to the border – again!

This is what he was met with…

There were two cheetah cubs in each of these baskets with no bedding, no water and no food.

On the completion of the paperwork, the cubs were immediately transported to the New Hope Centre for the care they need. Due to them being so young, they have been kept together in a warm and quiet area until they are less stressed and will be released into their new enclosure.

The Cheetahs were moved to their new enclosure 2 days after arriving at the centre and got busy chasing each other around and playing in the thick bedding.

We are watching them closely as cheetahs are very sensitive animals and these four are only between 1 and 1 and a half months old and are too young to be away from their mothers.

Cheetahs are highly endangered animals and are classed as Appendix I animals on CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), which is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Animals listed on Appendix I are threatened with extinction and CITES prohibits the international trade of these animals. To read more about CITES visit www.cites.org.

Imagine a world where our children and grandchildren can only read about Cheetahs and look at them in pictures rather than know that they are still a part of this world. All because a few put money before ethics.

Enough…

This can't be right...

2010-02-16T20:27:00.000+02:00

11:00 am Friday 12th of February we were alerted to the fact that there had been four lion cubs caught at the border between Jordan and Saudi Arabia. The story of these cubs is quite an intricate one which we are still sorting through to get the final picture. We know so far that they left Syria in a private car and entered Jordan through the Jaber border (the border between Syria and Jordan). On reaching the Saudi/Jordanian border, having travelled across Jordan, the woman in the car apparently got cold feet. She found a bus which was travelling back to Syria and asked the driver to take them back to Syria. It is at this point that the customs found them and confiscated them.

A team from the Royal Society for the conservation of nature (RSCN) and members of the confiscation team from the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) moved immediately to the border for the handover of the confiscated animals. Nothing prepared any of us for the sight we were met with.

The lion cubs had been crammed, two a piece, into tiny travel boxes, barely adequate enough for a regular cat! Even with the top of the cage removed, the cubs were still too cramped to be able to be taken out.

We quickly moved the cubs to the New Hope Centre for emergency treatment and care, where they were transferred to a larger crate before being introduced into their new enclosure.

The cubs settled well in their new enclosure but were initially terrified.

Today the cubs were transfered to a new enclosure and we are pleased to report they are doing a lot better.

The fact that these cubs have been taken from their mothers at such a young age is a crime, and we call on everyone to assist in stopping the illegal capture, transport and sale of these magnificent animals. One hates to think what kind of life they were headed for…

New Hope Treatment Centre

2010-02-14T21:02:00.002+02:00

In January of 2010 the Princess Alia Foundation launched the New Hope Treatment Center, in order to provide medical care for animals. This came about in response to the dire needs which exist within the country and the region due to animals being kept in terrible conditions.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Greater Amman Municipality and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature have teamed up in order to remedy the situation in the zoos in Jordan. After an initial assessment it was seen that many of the animals in these zoos were suffering from illnesses and/or severe stress related behavior, stereotypical of animals being kept in captivity.

The aim of the centre is to provide immediate emergency care for animals in need and to provide the animals with a safe and nurturing environment in which they may overcome stereotypical behaviours often associated with animals being kept in captivity and being mistreated. Upon completion of the treatment and rehabilitation, these animals will be rehomed in appropriate sanctuaries both locally (when dealing with native species) and internationally (for all non-native species).

Along with the support, guidance and expertise of Vier Pfoten (http://www.vier-pfoten.org/) and the support of the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) and Shirley Brine (from Australia), the centre was built in a matter of days after being informed by the government of the first set of confiscation from the local zoos, for those animals which were seen to be of immediate concern.
This was the site prior to work on day one…

By the early hours of the next morning…

The animals then started to arrive; a total of 28 animals were confiscated on the first day, the majority being Hyenas, also included were wolves, a lion cub and domestic dogs. After immediate treatment, some of the Hyenas were then transported to a nature reserve to begin their rehabilitation process working towards their release into the wild.

Four of the Hyenas were kept at the sanctuary as they were in need of ongoing medical treatment, two in particular had severe wounds to their neck and ears and surgery was conducted immediately.

Once settled all the animals began to adapt and recover. The foundation is working hard to provide placement of the animals in appropriate sanctuaries in order for them to live out the rest of their days in the environment they were supposed to be in.

The future plan is for the centre to be extended to include a complete veterinary teaching facility which will cater not only to Jordan but to the region as a whole.

Circus Animals Update

2010-01-10T18:11:00.000+02:00

Much has been happening since the last time we wrote and we thought it only fair to keep you updated. As it turns out the Lebanese Minister of Agriculture has made the decision that the circus animals are to leave Lebanon! You must bear in mind that this is quite a big decision for him to have made seeing as the Lebanese have no legislation on animal welfare. Look at the following link to read more on this story http://www.animalslebanon.org/

Now we wait to see how the rest of the story unfolds...

"A picture is worth a thousand words"

2010-01-02T22:54:00.000+02:00

12 days on and still...

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T14:04:00.000+02:00

The first message I received this morning, the first day of the new year, was thankfully one of hope. Although the animals are still in captivity at the circus, much is being done to raise awareness across the globe as to the plight of animals, such as these. The ongoing work of all involved is truly inspirational and teaches us that it is not enough to be 'human beings', but we must stirve to 'humane' beings. Look at the link below to get an idea of what is still being done...
http://www.animalslebanon.org/

I wish you all a new year full of hope, for all living things everywhere.

The Journey Continues....

2009-12-29T15:14:00.002+02:00

Late sunday night we got word that the animals had finally reached their destination, after travelling for 6 days, we are still keeping up with our contacts to check on the health of the animals. You can read more about what's going on in Lebanon in this link http://www.al-akhbar.com/ar/node/170855

We'll do our best to keep you updated.

Is it worth it?

2009-12-27T21:46:00.002+02:00

Thursday 24^th December 2009.

A phone call Thursday evening alerted me to the fact that there was a shipment of animals on our border in Aqaba. “What kind of animals?” I asked, all sorts of things going through my mind. It turns out that they were lions and tigers coming from Egypt en route to Lebanon to perform in the Monte Carlo circus they have there at the moment. Why through Jordan? I thought to myself. Well it became all too clear that this was intended to cut costs on the side of the Egyptians. The animals were to be transported from Egypt, to Jordan, on to Syria and then finally into Lebanon all on the back of a truck!

Obviously our hands were tied as we could not refuse entry into the country and also came the thought, if we don’t let them in where would they go? They would be held at the border for who knows how long until they figured out what to do. The only thing to do was to ensure the health and safety of these animals whilst in our borders. Having a little bit of background knowledge about how animals are transported, we very quickly jumped into action. I called our partners at the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM), Animal Welfare department hoping that they would be able to help. After explaining to them what was going on in Aqaba I was met with, “Don’t worry, we’ll take care of it”. My sense of relief at the fact that I managed to mobilise a team who actually cared about their work was more than you can imagine. Within an hour of the initial phone call an action plan was in place and the team of 9 people from GAM worked through the night prepapring all that they needed to take with them down to Aqaba. All the while having to deal with me breathing down their necks to get someone to the port of Aqaba to check on the situation of the animals.

Seeing as these were animals that we, here in Jordan, have very little experience with I very quickly contacted a dear friend and advisor half way around the world in Australia to ask for assistance in gathering information on how to best help the animals. Lo and behold, within half an hour, contacts had been made spanning the globe and information started to pour in!

Armed with food, medication and a huge amount of determination our team headed down to Aqaba in the early hours of Friday morning.

Friday 25^th December 2009.

“We’re here”, came the familiar voice down the phone, although instead of the jovial tone, which I was used to, I heard stress, anger and possibly a hint of choking back a few tears. This is what they saw on arriving at the docks…

“Where are the animals?” the head of the team asked.

“In there”, the Egyptian worker responsible for the animals answered with a tangible lack of expression.

As it turns out the animals had been loaded into the crates on the 21^st of December, when they left Egypt for Jordan. After much discussions and a number of different stories we finally managed to determine that the animals had been closed in this transport since that time and no one had even had the sense to open the sides of the flaps during their very long trip. When asked about food and water we were met with many blank looks. The animals had not been fed or watered for at least 2 days.

After moving the trucks off the main docking area into a slightly more quiet area the flaps were opened for the first time since they started their journey…

We had prior knowledge that there was also a lion cub with the 5 lions and 3 tigers on the transport and after scouring the two transport vehicles we finally found her.

Our vet got to work very quickly checking the status of all the animals. They were all under weight and were showing signs of dehydration, which one would only expect after being kept in the dark with no food and water for 2 days. The main concern was the cub. Although she was moving around she was weak, disorientated and dehydrated. We were also horrified to discover, on closer inspection, that she had been declawed and her paws were still raw in the places where her claws should have been. This procedure has been banned in the US and most countries in Europe but I have been told that it has not reached legislation; something we can definitely work on, just take a look at the photo and tell me I’m wrong.

Very quickly 40 Kg’s of raw meat was acquired and we set about feeding the animals. Our first instinct was to give the animals as much as we could but we feared for their health as they had not eaten for a few days and we had no way of knowing what food they were used to anyway, being in captivity at the zoo in Egypt. We decided to give them a few Kilos of meat each as a first meal and placed buckets of water in front of all of them and allowed them to take their time drinking. You can just imagine the sounds emanating from inside the transport vehicles when the lions and tigers got their first whiff of the meat.

Pondering what we could do we each had our own private dreams of being able to confiscate the animals and try somehow to get them back to their native homes in the savannahs of Africa. A dream we would not see become a reality. The paperwork seemed to be legal. The only option we had was to try to move the animals across to the Syrian border and through to their end destination as soon as possible. Yet again we turned our attention to the cub. She was in no fit state to travel. After having her first meal and long drink in days we waited until we saw her regain some of her strength. The vet stayed with her whilst the rest of the team headed into town to get supplies for the convoy in preparation of the long trip ahead. Note; all this was acquired at GAM’s expense. It became all too apparent that the Egyptians had hoped to get the animals to the circus in Lebanon with no food or water so as not incur added cost! After insisting that the cages be cleaned and new and ample amounts of straw was laid down for each of the animals, we were ready to continue.

Laden with kilos of raw meat packed in coolers and gallons of water, and after assuring that the cub was fit to continue the journey under the watchful eye of our vet, we left Aqaba at 5:00pm and headed towards Amman. It is usually a three and a half hour journey to Amman, but we reached the outskirts of Amman by midnight, as we insisted that the trucks stop every hour in order to open the flaps of the vehicles and allow for some ventilation for the animals, as well as checking on the darling little cub and giving the animals water on the way. By midnight the convoy had reached Jiza, just outside Amman, where the drivers announced that they could go no further as they were exhausted by the drive. Yet again we were faced with a decision. We new the faster the animals were transported the better as it meant the less time spent in containment. However we weighed up the risks of one of the drivers falling asleep at the wheel and having an accident. We decided to stop for the night. We had enough food and water with us for the animals, so after securing a safe spot off the road and giving the animals another meal and leaving water for them we headed off for the night.

Saturday 26^th December 2009.

By 7:30am the whole team was back with the convoy. The animals and crew were safe and we set about our new routine of opening up the transport vehicles and allowing the animals some fresh air and sunlight. All of them were given a good breakfast and more water and soaked up some of the early morning sun. Even the little cub was doing well. We decided that it was time she came out of the confinement of her tiny cage and move around a little. We were truly blessed that one of the team had had some experience with handling large cats (don’t ask me how!) and he tended to the cub.

Having been fed, watered and had a little bit of a walkabout, we all breathed a sigh of relief at the fact that she was doing so much better. She showed us just how much better she was feeling by affording a very lucky member of our team with a huge hug!!

Having secured the animals again and making sure their bedding had been changed and replenished we headed north towards the Syrian border, stopping along the way to air and check on the animals and bringing out the cub to walk around some more as we each fell more and more in love with her.

Finally we reached the Jaber border crossing. I haven’t mentioned it yet, but throughout the very long journey, there were e-mails coming in from concerned parties from all around the world as we desperately tried to secure that the animals would be tended to by other concerned individuals once they were out of our care. I have to say here that it was heart warming to see the legitimate concern and speed of action from all those who knew what was going on and restored a little of my faith in mankind, after what I had witnessed.

At the border we managed to speed along the processing of the papers, while we busied ourselves again tending to the animals. The flaps were opened and we fed the animals the rest of the meat we had. Originally we had wanted to give the rest of the meat to the crew continuing on with the animals, but yet again we were faced with a judgment call. Were we to trust them to actually feed the meat to the animals? Or would they keep it for themselves? This may seem a little harsh, but please bear in mind that they had kept the animals without food and water for the days prior to us arriving on the scene, so we were justified in our doubts. After some debate we decided that it would be better to feed the rest of the meat to the animals; we had 24kg’s left and this way we knew that each one of them had received a full days feed (large cats in captivity eat an average of 5-7Kg’s of meat per day – Google is a wonderful tool!). Having replenished the straw under each of the animals and making sure they were secure, with heavy hearts, we bade farewell to the magnificent animals as they drove off to complete the next leg of their journey. Silent prayers were said hoping that they would reach their destination safely, and with that we wearily headed home wishing that there were something more we could do.

Full credit must be given to the team of 9 dedicated people from GAM who worked tirelessly from the minute we were informed of the presence of the animals in Jordan, until they crossed the border into Syria. Without their clarity of thought and quick action we have great doubts that the cub would have survived the trip through Jordan. Next time we are so quick to judge our lack of commitment to animals in this country, we must all stop and remember that we do have dedicated, able and caring people who are willing to work hard to make a difference, for nothing in return other than the satisfaction of having done a good thing for other living creatures who share this world with us.

We have been tracking the progress of the convoy and until this very hour Sunday 27^th December 2009, 8:50pm; the animals have still not reached their destination.

A Question

2009-12-27T00:26:00.000+02:00

Lets start with a simple and what may seem like an odd question...

How many of you have been to a circus and marvelled at the magnificent animals performing tricks? Elephants balancing on balls and lions and tigers jumping through hoops of fire all at the command of a whip?

Why you may ask? Well I for one am guilty of such a thing and only today learned of the horror of what happens behind the scenes, at least one aspect of it, and I hate to think of what else is involved!

Ponder the question and I will write again tomorrow...