Meet the Bears: Smudge – Born Into Captivity, Raised With Love
All proceeds after manufacturing costs go directly to the Animals Asia Foundation.
Smudge’s story begins in heartbreak but blossoms into one of hope, resilience, and joy. Born in captivity at a bear bile farm in Nanning, China, she was the last cub ever born there. So small that even the smallest cage was too large, she spent her earliest days alone in a birdcage—crying, frightened, and separated from her mother.
When Animals Asia took over the care of 132 bears at the facility in 2014, a wide-eyed, trembling Smudge was found by Senior Bear Manager Heidi Quine. Heidi instinctively held the tiny cub to her chest, and Smudge calmed instantly. From that moment, she was never alone again.
Growing Up – Learning to Be a Bear
At Nanning, Smudge was given her own special yard filled with climbing frames, toys, and paddling pools. With patience and routine, she began to heal and thrive. Her carers became her family, teaching her to climb and explore, while her playful, affectionate spirit began to shine.
Building Bonds
Smudge’s world expanded when she was introduced to Wai Kee, another young bear. Together, they splashed in pools, enjoyed cool hose showers, and gently patted each other as they passed. Their friendship was a bright spark amid the shadows of captivity, proof that even in hardship, connection can heal.
The Journey Home
In 2021, after years of waiting, Smudge and 100 of her friends were finally cleared for transfer to Animals Asia’s Chengdu sanctuary. Calm and ready, she walked straight into her transport cage as if she knew this was the first step toward freedom.
During the 1,200-kilometre journey, she was comforted with treats and straw, surrounded by the love and hope of the team who had waited so long for this day.
Sanctuary Life
Smudge quickly adapted to life at the sanctuary, exploring toys, leafy branches, and her favourite treats. Though she isn’t keen on nuts or bananas, give her a bamboo stick or banana leaf and she’s in heaven. And when sugarcane is on the menu? She gleefully chews and flings pieces across the floor in pure delight.
Her carers describe her as cheeky, affectionate, and endlessly curious—a bright soul who brings joy to everyone around her.
Smudge Today
From a frightened cub in a birdcage to a strong, confident bear with friends, freedom, and love, Smudge embodies resilience and the transformative power of compassion.
By purchasing Meet the Bears: Smudge, you’re helping Animals Asia continue to rescue, heal, and protect bears like her—ensuring no bear has to suffer in silence again.
✨ Smudge’s journey reminds us that with kindness, even the smallest life can grow into something extraordinary.
Meet the perfect gift for any holiday, birthday, or special occasion, the teddy bear with its own t-shirt. Available in an adorable size of 7″ by 10″, the teddy bear comes with a cute bow, super soft synthetic fur, and 100% polyester fiber filling for maximum huggability. All your designs, names, and photos go on the t-shirt in pristine detail and vivid colors.
.: Material: 100% polyester
.: One size: 7″ x 10″ (17.8 x 25.4 cm)
.: Comes with a black bow tie
.: Sewn in label
.: Handwash only (the shirt)
