Rescue

Rescuing wildlife from the illegal wildlife trade is at the heart of our mission. As a landlocked country surrounded by five Southeast Asian nations, Laos serves as a major transit point for trafficked animals, some even coming from as far as Africa, destined for markets in China or Vietnam.

Rescue missions are not always as thrilling and exciting as you may see on tv or social media. Our rescue missions often take our team across the entire country, navigating rough roads, rain, flooding, and extreme heat. Some of these journeys can exceed 12 hours one way. Staff work through exhaustion with the sole focus on ensuring the animal’s safe transport back to LCTW.

Rescue team members vary by mission, depending on the situation at hand. We will often need to bring one of our wildlife vet team members for in-the-field care if the animal is reported injured, sick, or lethargic, providing critical field support to stabilize it before the journey back. Rescue missions are costly. We must cover essential expenses like medical supplies, fuel, rescue equipment, government support, and accommodations and food for our dedicated team on multi-day rescues. We’re fortunate to have numerous supporters and private individuals who help us rescue these remarkable animals from almost certain peril.