An update on the 'World's Saddest Zoo' lions and why British charity WVS is creating a legacy for the wildlife of Armenia

WVS (Worldwide Veterinary Service) is delighted to announce the launch of the purpose-built enclosure at the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge in Armenia. The first temporary inhabitants of this enclosure are the 3 Gyumri Zoo lions: Mery, Zita and Gita who were rescued by WVS from the 'World's Saddest Zoo'.

This was built as a result of fundraising efforts from WVS (who helped facilitate the rescue of these 3 lions), other associated charities and individual fundraisers like Sophie Newton, coupled with the joint commitment between WVS and the FPWC (Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets) and is located in an area that has an abundance of wildlife – including brown bears, lynx, wolves and more.

This is a reflection of the close partnership between WVS and FPWC where we are actively working together towards in-situ conservation, animal rehabilitation and rescue initiatives in Armenia.

The aim for the new enclosure, the Wildlife Rescue Centre (WRC) is that it will become a refuge for wounded wildlife that populates the mountains all around.

Each animal that is brought to the sanctuary will be provided with appropriate treatment and care, and once fully treated, will be returned to wildlife and/or transferred to an appropriate International Wildlife Sanctuary that best suits their on-going needs.

WVS still need to raise further funds to rescue and treat the many animals that will inhabit the Wildlife Rescue Centre and would welcome any donations to assist us with this appeal.

WVS Marketing Manager Emma Harrison said, “The new Wildlife Rescue Centre at the Causcaus Wildlife Refuge in Armenia is a fantastic achievement and WVS are thrilled that this will now be used as a dedicated refuge for bears, wolves and more that require veterinary treatment. Whilst the new Wildlife Rescue Centre is now built, WVS will require on-going donations to help support our work so that we can rescue and treat animals that desperately need our help. Ultimately, our new Wildlife Rescue Centre will create a long term legacy for the future of Armenian wildlife”

To donate to our appeal, visit our Giving Grid fundraising page to support our Wildlife Rescue Centre and please donate what you can:

https://www.givinggrid.com/Save-Armenian-Wildlife/

For further information on this appeal, please visit: http://wvs.org.uk/how-to-help/appeals/wildlife-rescue-centre/