Get scruffy for a cause: Animals Asia joins forces with Hendrick Boards to promote 'Beards for Bears' initiative

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Gentlemen, ever needed an excuse to get a little hairy? Look no further: Beards for Bears, a collaborative initiative between animal welfare nonprofit Animals Asia and skateboarding company Hendrick Boards, encourages men to get scruffy for a cause.

Moon bears, also known as Asian black bears, are an endangered species that are prized for the purported medicinal properties of their bile. These docile and intelligent animals are trapped and kept in small cages for up to 30 years, so that their bile can be harvested through needles, catheters and other painful procedures. Although several herbal and synthetic alternatives to the bile exist, this cruel practice continues to exist across multiple Asian countries.

Animals Asia rescues these bears and relocates them to reserves, where they are able to live out the rest of their lives in safe, spacious refuges. However, awareness of this practice remains low and Animals Asia has devised a way for people to take action. At, participants can register pictures of their beard growth and chart their progress through to the end of June, as well as garner support and donations through their success. Girls can participate as ambassadors, calling their boyfriends, brothers, and friends to action.

Hendrick Boards, an eco-friendly US-based skateboard company, has partnered with Animals Asia to produce t-shirts to advertise the campaign. “I’m hairy because I care” is emblazoned across the front, and $5 from each purchase contributes directly to charity efforts. So throw your razors in the trash for the month, and bear your beard with pride!

Danielle Snow | Facebook | blog

Photo credit: Animals Asia
