Meet the Bears: Yen – From Birdcage to Sunshine
All proceeds after manufacturing costs go directly to the Animals Asia Foundation.
In November 2021, a police unit in Uong Bi, Quang Ninh Province, intercepted an illegal wildlife trafficking operation—and discovered a tiny moon bear cub crammed into a birdcage. Terrified, alone, and likely torn from his mother in the wild, this small bear had endured a moment no animal should ever face. Thanks to swift action by authorities and Animals Asia, his life took a new direction.
We named him Yen, meaning “peace” in Vietnamese, after the revered Yen Tu Pagoda near where he was rescued. This rescue marked a powerful symbol of hope, demonstrating how collaboration can transform lives.
Settling into Sanctuary Life
At first, Yen was cautious and unsure. Given time, space, and gentle care, he began to explore his new world. In early 2022, he moved into his own den in the sanctuary’s Cub House, complete with ladders, high baskets for sleeping, toys, straw, and healthy treats. It was his first real step toward meeting other bears and discovering the joys of freedom.
First Taste of Freedom
Soon, Yen ventured outside. Hesitant at first, he took his tiny paws into the sunshine with new friends Cocoon, Mudky, and Star by his side. Step by step, he learned the exhilaration of space, the joy of grass under his paws, and the safety of a life without fear.
Playful, Curious, and Full of Life
Today, Yen is thriving. Energetic, cheerful, and sociable, he rushes out each morning in search of his favorite treats—apples and bananas—holding them like a child as he munches away. He plays hide-and-seek, climbs high structures to tease friends, and often parades around with a sack over his face, delighting his carers with his antics. After a full day of exploration, he cools off with a dip in the pool, splashing with carefree abandon.
A Life Transformed
Yen’s journey from a cramped birdcage to sunlit freedom is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of sanctuary care. By purchasing Meet the Bears: Yen, you help provide the same love, medical care, and protection to countless other bears still at risk.
✨ Yen’s story reminds us that every life, no matter how small, deserves peace, play, and the joy of simply being a bear.
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)
