A sloth bear rescued from years of abuse and later named by Hollywood star Julia Roberts is now thriving nearly two decades after being given a second chance.
Odum was rescued in India in 2009 after being forced to perform for tourists as a so-called “dancing bear.” When he was not performing, he reportedly spent much of his time confined to a cage.
Roberts was in India filming Eat, Pray, Love when she visited the sanctuary caring for the rescued bear. During her visit, she gave him the name Odum, believed to be an old family name.
Seventeen years later, Odum is now 26 and living peacefully at the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre in India, operated by Wildlife SOS.
Ahead of World Sloth Bear Day on October 12, International Animal Rescue released new photos showing just how dramatically his life has changed.
Odum at the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre – Credit: International Animal Rescue / Wildlife SOS / SWNS
Instead of performing for crowds or living in confinement, Odum now spends his days enjoying simple comforts.
“Seventeen years on from his rescue, Odum’s days are calm, perhaps eating a ripe muskmelon, taking a splash in his pool or having a doze in his hammock, which has been specially made for him,” rescue staff said.
His transformation also highlights the years of care that can be required after an animal is removed from an abusive situation.
Alan Knight, president of International Animal Rescue, said Odum’s story demonstrates what long-term rescue and rehabilitation can achieve.
“Odum’s story illustrates the beautiful outcome that rescue operations can achieve,” Knight said.
But he emphasized that saving an animal is only the beginning of the process.
“Our responsibility does not cease when an animal has reached safety,” he said. “As he gets older, he will still require the same amount of patience, kindness and specialized care as was necessary to help him recover all those years ago.”
Today, Odum’s quiet life of fresh food, swimming and naps in his specially made hammock stands in stark contrast to the conditions he endured before his rescue.
His story serves as a powerful example of how sustained care can give rescued wildlife the chance to recover and enjoy a peaceful life.