From Exploitation to Freedom: Animal Rights in Action at De Zonnegloed

At De Zonnegloed, we give a voice to animal rights. Every animal here has a story—often one of abuse, neglect, or sheer human ignorance. They deserve so much more, and that’s exactly what we strive to provide.

We are not just a sanctuary; we are a refuge where animal rights are put into action every single day. Whether it’s wolves rescued from illegal trade or monkeys who suffered for years in tiny cages, our mission is not only to provide them with a safe place but to restore their right to dignity and freedom.

Why Animal Rights Are More Than Just Theory

Animal rights often seem like an abstract concept. What does it truly mean for animals to have rights? For us at De Zonnegloed, it means that animals have the right to live free from pain and exploitation. Our mission is simple: every animal that comes to us has the right to a happy and dignified life, in an environment where they can be who they are meant to be.

Arman’s Story: A Right to Freedom

Arman, a wolf, is one of many animals who came to us after years of having his rights violated. As a pup, he was kept illegally by a woman in Ukraine alongside other wild animals, including a badger. Arman was literally imprisoned, deprived of his freedom. Only after he was injured in an attack by the badger was he rescued.

Now, at De Zonnegloed, Arman finally has the space to move as a wolf should—to run, explore, and follow his instincts. This is animal rights in action: giving an animal the chance to be itself again.

From Abuse to Recovery: Rikchaq’s Story

Rikchaq, a cotton-top tamarin, is another example of an animal whose rights were ignored for years. He lived with over a hundred other South American monkeys in horrific conditions under a woman in France who bred and sold them. Rikchaq endured constant stress and misery, with no concern for his welfare.

At De Zonnegloed, Rikchaq can finally breathe freely. We provide him with the space, care, and enrichment he needs to reclaim his life. This is what animal rights mean: recovery after a life of suffering.

Why Stress Violates Animal Rights

Animal rights are about more than physical care; they include the right to be free from stress and fear. Many of our animals suffer lifelong trauma from mistreatment and poor living conditions. Stress manifests as obsessive behavior, self-harm, or apathy—all signs that their fundamental rights have been violated.

At De Zonnegloed, we work tirelessly to repair this damage. Our caregivers follow a strict schedule, rotating regularly so animals do not become dependent on one person. We also do not allow physical interaction between animals and visitors, no matter how tempting it might be to pet them.

These animals deserve peace and the opportunity to develop natural behaviors without human interference. Respecting their autonomy and avoiding further trauma is a core part of animal rights.

De Zonnegloed’s Unique Approach: Putting Animal Rights First

A Home, Not an Exhibit

At De Zonnegloed, the animals are not spectacles. We are not a zoo; we are a sanctuary where the animals come first.

Our limited visiting hours ensure the animals have the rest they need. We aim to be a place where animals can live their lives in dignity, not a tourist attraction. This commitment sets us apart from commercial animal facilities.

No Breeding, Only Protection

Another key aspect of animal rights is ensuring that animals are not subjected to obligations that do not serve their best interests. Upon arrival, animals are sterilized if they have not already been, allowing us to control their population.

Breeding animals in captivity does not contribute to their well-being and takes up valuable space that could be used to rescue more animals. Instead of reproduction, our animals are given the freedom to simply be themselves, without the pressures of motherhood or competing males.

The Impact of Respecting Animal Rights on Society

Animal rights are not only crucial for the animals but also for society. How we treat animals reflects our values and our willingness to show compassion. An animal that has lived in fear for years must learn to trust humans again. This takes time, patience, and immense care. But this process also holds up a mirror to humanity: how we treat the most vulnerable beings among us defines who we are.

Animals like Arman and Rikchaq help convey this message to our visitors. They are living proof of the consequences of ignoring animal rights and the transformative potential of giving them a better life.

By showing empathy and respect for animals, we foster a society that upholds these values, and that is a message we are proud to spread.

How You Can Support Animal Rights in Action

There are several ways you can support De Zonnegloed’s mission and help promote animal rights:

  • Volunteer: Whether it’s welcoming visitors, assisting with maintenance, or helping care for the animals, we’re always in need of extra hands.
  • Symbolically adopt or donate: As a non-profit organization, every contribution helps us rescue and care for more animals. By symbolically adopting an animal, you directly support their care and well-being.

Together for a World Where Animal Rights Are Real

The work we do at De Zonnegloed is not just about care and rescue. It’s a fundamental choice for animal rights. We believe animals have the right to live free from pain, fear, or exploitation.

Let’s work together for a world where animals no longer suffer due to human ignorance or for entertainment. They deserve so much more. They deserve a life of freedom, dignity, and respect. And together, we can make that a reality.