2025 was another year filled with incredible progress for animals—and we couldn’t have done it without you.
Here are some of the victories that made 2025 a year to remember:
1. West Hollywood Passes Historic Pet Sale Ban
Working alongside World Animal Protection, the city of West Hollywood—long known for trailblazing animal-friendly legislation—passed the most comprehensive pet store sales ban in the nation. The new law prohibits the sale of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, and even hermit crabs.
2. A New Beginning for Elephants in Phitsanulok
Thanks to your unwavering support, Elephant Forest Phitsanulok has transformed from a traditional elephant camp into a true sanctuary—where elephants can finally live free from exploitation. Its grand opening drew national attention and influential partners, ensuring this life-changing progress will inspire even more sustainable, cruelty-free tourism.
3. New York City Bird Bill Introduced
Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala introduced landmark legislation to ban the sale of birds in New York City pet stores—the first of its kind in the city. World Animal Protection worked hand-in-hand with Voters for Animal Rights and the Avian Welfare Coalition to help make this bill a reality.
4. Protecting Romania’s Orphaned Cubs
After the Romanian government more than doubled bear hunting quotas, countless cubs are left orphaned. Thanks to your support, we’re expanding the Libearty Sanctuary and have already rescued five vulnerable cubs this year—giving them the safety and care they deserve
5. Austin Says Goodbye to Glue Traps
The city of Austin has officially ended the use of cruel glue traps in city buildings, following a recommendation from the Animal Advisory Commission. World Animal Protection proudly supported this win alongside partners including the Travis Audubon Advocacy Committee, Austin Bat Refuge, Texas Humane Legislation Network, local advocate Kristin Dunn, and many others.
6. Starbucks Adds a Fully Vegan Option
Thanks to our Moving the Menu report and ongoing engagement, Starbucks launched a fully plant-based choice on its food menu: the Spicy Falafel Pocket—packed with smashed falafel, creamy hummus, pickled onions, roasted red peppers, and a zesty herb sauce, all wrapped in toasted lavash bread.
7. Australian Fashion Week Goes Wildlife-Free
Following years of advocacy by World Animal Protection, Australian Fashion Week announced a ban on all wildlife materials, including fur, wild animal skins, and feathers.
8. WHO Adopts Historic Pandemic Agreement
In a groundbreaking step, countries around the world approved the World Health Organization’s (WHO) new Pandemic Agreement. For the first time in a legally binding international treaty, it recognizes One Health—the vital connection between human, animal, and environmental well-being.
9. Webjet Makes a Commitment to Animals
After our Web of Cruelty report, Webjet—one of Australia’s largest online travel agencies—committed to working with World Animal Protection to develop a strong animal welfare policy.
10. Swedish Banks Cut JBS Investments by 99%
Our Cruel Investments report revealed the devastating impacts of the world’s largest meat companies—including JBS—on animals, forests, and the climate. Thousands of Swedish bank customers demanded change, and today, Swedish investments in JBS have fallen by 99%, with 25 major investors blacklisting the company for sustainability reasons.