Odum the sloth Bear’s recovery from cruel “dancing Bear” trade
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International Animal Rescue and Wildlife SOS recently shared images showing the remarkable recovery of Odum, a 26-year-old sloth bear rescued from a life of abuse in India.
Years ago, Odum suffered as part of a cruel tourist practice where bears were forced to “dance” by having their noses pierced with a hot iron and a rope threaded through the wound. This practice caused him malnutrition, stunted growth, and an abnormal gait.
In 2009, rescuers saved Odum while actress Julia Roberts was filming Eat Pray Love in India. Roberts visited the sanctuary and personally named him Odum, an ancient surname from her own family. Following his rescue, Odum began a long process of physical and psychological rehabilitation. Today, Odum lives peacefully at the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre in India, receiving specialized geriatric care including dental checkups, physiotherapy, and a vitamin-rich diet.
He spends his days swimming, exploring, enjoying ripe melons, and resting in a custom-made hammock. His story joins those of other rescued bears, Lissy and Gracie, as proof that support and veterinary care can restore freedom and wellbeing to animals harmed for years.
