Rescue Bear Wows with Nap Skills After Surviving Traumatic Past
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Masha, a remarkable rescue bear, has captured hearts and accolades for her exceptional nap abilities after enduring a harrowing past as hunting bait. The 18-year-old bear emerged victorious in FOUR PAWS’s prestigious 2025 March Napness competition, showcasing her prowess in the art of hibernation.
The annual event, organised by FOUR PAWS, celebrates rescue bears from seven sanctuaries worldwide competing to claim the title for the longest hibernation period. Masha’s remarkable feat of extending her winter slumber beyond her peers by three days earned her the coveted victory in the competition held on April 12.
Before finding sanctuary at Ukraine’s Bear Sanctuary Domazhyr in 2018, Masha’s life was filled with hardship and cruelty. She was previously held at a hunting station, where she was relentlessly pursued by dogs and utilised as hunting bait, enduring relentless chases and injuries. The scars of her traumatic past, including the loss of her tail to the hunting dogs, haunted her upon her arrival at the sanctuary.
Now residing in the nurturing environment of Bear Sanctuary Domazhyr, Masha has flourished under the care and compassion of her guardians. Olya Fedoriv and Anna Klid from the sanctuary recounted Masha’s journey from fear and suffering to a state of safety and contentment. They shared how seeing Masha peacefully slumber in her den brought them immense joy, a stark contrast to the fear and mistreatment she faced in the past.
Masha’s transformation extends beyond her nap prowess. She has forged a deep bond with Potap, another rescue bear at the sanctuary, who is affectionately referred to as her “found bear friend.” The pair engage in various activities together, from swimming to relaxing side by side, embodying a harmonious and respectful companionship that warms the hearts of all who witness it.
Despite facing challenging circumstances such as the impact of war on Ukraine in recent years, the dedicated team at Bear Sanctuary Domazhyr remained steadfast in their commitment to caring for their animal residents. Even amidst adversity, they prioritised the well-being of Masha and her fellow bears, demonstrating unwavering compassion and resilience.
The story of Masha’s resilience and her journey to recovery serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of compassion and care on the lives of rescued animals. Through the dedication of organisations like FOUR PAWS and the unwavering support of sanctuary staff, bears like Masha are given a second chance at life and the opportunity to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.
As Masha continues to bask in the warmth of her sanctuary home, surrounded by compassionate caregivers and loving companions, her inspiring tale stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of hope and healing. To learn more about Masha and the incredible work of Bear Sanctuary Domazhyr, visit their website and discover more about the remarkable bears they are dedicated to protecting and caring for.
In a world where kindness and compassion can truly change lives, Masha’s story serves as a beacon of light, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of love and care in the lives of rescued animals. Through her resilience and remarkable journey, Masha reminds us all of the profound impact we can have when we choose empathy and compassion, creating a brighter future for all beings, one nap at a time.