Update on Baloo’s health
Blog
For over 20 years, Baloo the brown bear has been trapped in a cage at a Romanian ski resort, living in appalling conditions. We recently conducted a health check on Baloo to strengthen our lawsuit to move him to sanctuary.
Used as a mascot for a ski resort and denied the life he deserves, Baloo has suffered for too long. Despite the Romanian government banning private ownership of bears in 2005, Baloo remains imprisoned, his health deteriorating. But we refuse to give up on him.
New findings from latest health check
In late October 2024, two of our colleagues from the Netherlands office visited Baloo alongside bear expert, Delphine Ronfot. Delphine conducted a thorough assessment of Baloo’s health, his enclosure and overall well-being. The findings were deeply concerning. Baloo has issues with his teeth and joints, and there are strong suspicions that he is also suffering from diabetes. His deteriorating health is yet more proof that he urgently needs to be relocated to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, where he can receive proper care and live in dignity.
These findings will serve as critical evidence in our ongoing legal case to secure Baloo’s release to sanctuary. With the owner refusing to cooperate and using his influence to block intervention, our legal team is working tirelessly to prove that Baloo’s suffering must end.
In February 2025, we returned to visit Baloo with expert Delphine Ronfot for a second assessment. Once again, the findings were clear: Baloo is being neglected.
Sadly, his owner continues to refuse to engage with us, making legal intervention our only path forward.
How you can help Baloo
The fight to free Baloo is far from over, but with your support, we can keep the pressure on authorities to act. If you haven’t already, sign the petition and help us share Baloo’s story far and wide. Every voice matters in this battle for justice.
Together, we can ensure Baloo spends the rest of his life not behind bars, but in a place where he can roam, heal and be free.
Banner photo: World Animal Protection / Alice Royle