Meet the Bears: Tatzi – The Oldest Surviving Bile Bear
All proceeds after manufacturing costs go directly to the Animals Asia Foundation.
Tatzi’s life is nothing short of extraordinary. Rescued after spending more than a decade in a tiny, rusted cage on a bile farm in southern China, his body bore the scars of cruelty, but his spirit refused to be broken. In 2009, he was transferred to Animals Asia’s sanctuary where he could receive the specialized care his aging body needed.
Today, at over 36 years old, Tatzi is believed to be the oldest living moon bear in the world—and almost certainly the oldest survivor of bear farming. With his kind eyes and trademark lolling tongue, he has become one of Animals Asia’s most iconic and beloved residents.
Resilience Through Adversity
Years of confinement left Tatzi with arthritis in his spine, knees, and elbows, hypertension requiring daily medication, and cataracts that cloud his vision. He’s toothless now, but he happily enjoys soft treats and eats with gusto. Neurological tremors cause his tongue to loll, but it’s pain-free and part of the charm that makes him unforgettable.
Despite his long list of medical challenges, Tatzi remains remarkably resilient. Thanks to dedicated veterinary care and the loving attention of his carers, his condition is stable, and his quality of life is rich with comfort, enrichment, and peace.
Golden Years of Sanctuary Life
Tatzi’s days are now filled with the simple joys he was once denied: slow foraging walks, dips in the pool, and lazy afternoons basking in the sunshine. He’s even part of Animals Asia’s pioneering Cooperative Care program, calmly offering his paw for health checks and blood draws. This gentle cooperation is a testament to the trust he’s built with his carers—proof that love and patience can heal even the deepest scars.
He’s given choices, dignity, and the freedom to live at his own pace. And in return, he shares his quiet wisdom and affectionate nature with everyone who meets him.
A Gentle Soul, Loved by All
Though slower these days, Tatzi still rolls in the grass, soaks up the breeze, and enjoys companionship with his fellow bears. His carers describe him as endlessly patient and kind—a gentle soul who, after years of pain, has finally found peace.
By purchasing Meet the Bears: Tatzi, you are honoring one of the greatest survivors of bear farming, while helping Animals Asia continue its work to end cruelty and provide lifelong sanctuary for bears across Asia.
✨ Tatzi reminds us that every life has value, and every being deserves love, dignity, and peace.
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)
