Management and rehabilitation of exotic and wild animal species in European sanctuaries

This dissertation investigates the management and rehabilitation practices in European animal sanctuaries exclusively dedicated to wild and exotic species, such as big cats, brown bears, and primates for example. It explores the challenges in restoring appropriate species-specific behaviours in abused animals, even within space-limited sanctuaries, and examines strategies to better accommodate animal needs. Emphasis is placed on behavioural and psychological rehabilitation using enrichment activities and positive reinforcement training, alongside medical recovery through proper diet and medical procedures. The thesis also considers socialisation projects where feasible, bureaucratic hurdles in rescuing and relocating animals, and the comprehensive process from rescue to relocation even beyond European borders. In order to showcase the capabilities of sanctuaries, I will illustrate a case study of two lions rescued approximately 2000 km apart in eastern Europe and eventually rehomed to a large sanctuary in South Africa after a meticulous rehabilitation and socialisation process at Felida Big Cat Sanctuary in the Netherlands. This work wants to underscore the vital role that animal sanctuaries play as both temporary refuges and potential permanent homes for the animals they host.