Four Paws

Four Paws (German: VIER PFOTEN) is an international animal welfare organization headquartered in Vienna, Austria. Founded in 1988 by Heli Dungler in Austria, the organization focuses on providing aid to animals in need, advocating for animal rights, and promoting humane treatment of animals across the globe. Four Paws operates with the mission to be a strong, global, and independent voice for animals under direct human influence. Their work includes rescuing animals in distress, wildlife conservation, and campaigning against inhumane practices towards animals.

History

Four Paws was established in response to the public outcry over the inhumane conditions of fur farms in Austria. Since its inception, the organization has expanded its focus to include a variety of animal welfare issues. Over the years, Four Paws has grown into an international entity, with offices in more than 15 countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, South Africa, and the United States.

Mission and Activities

The core mission of Four Paws is to advocate for animals that are directly under human influence, focusing on companion animals, farm animals, and wild animals. Their activities include:

• Animal Rescue Operations: Four Paws conducts rescue operations worldwide to save animals from crisis and distress situations. This includes rescuing animals from war zones, disaster areas, and from conditions of neglect or abuse.

• Wildlife Conservation: The organization works on protecting endangered species and their habitats. They run sanctuaries and conservation projects in several countries to provide a safe haven for wildlife.

• Campaigns Against Animal Cruelty: Four Paws actively campaigns against practices that cause animal suffering, such as the fur trade, factory farming, and the use of animals in entertainment.

• Education and Advocacy: Educating the public about animal welfare and advocating for legal reforms to protect animals are also key aspects of their work.

Projects and Campaigns

Some notable projects and campaigns led by Four Paws include:

• The Bear Sanctuary projects, which provide a natural habitat for bears rescued from poor living conditions.
• Campaigns against the dog and cat meat trade in Southeast Asia.
• Efforts to end the keeping of wild animals in circuses and private ownership.
• The "Lionsrock" Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa, which offers a safe home for big cats rescued from captivity.

Funding and Support

Four Paws is funded through donations, sponsorships, and partnerships with individuals and corporations who support animal welfare. The organization also relies on volunteers and activists to help carry out its mission.

See Also

• Animal rights
• Wildlife conservation
• Animal rescue