On this special New Year's Eve, I can't think of a nicer exit for 2011 than to show this undeniably unique message of grateful thanks from the bears themselves.

As newly arrived Dream lay sleeping on the surgery table for her health check in Vietnam, oblivious of the sighs around her, Vet Kirsty captured this rather amazing ultrasound image of her gall bladder. While Dream passed the check with flying colours, it is nothing short of incredible that an image like this arrives on the screen, perhaps concluding with a thank you for her new life as only a recently rescued bear can.

Coupled with these very special pictures taken recently of Banjo and Sausage by volunteer Sue in China, surely the year is ending - and a new one beginning - with a message that reinforces why we go on.

Thank you so very much for the lives the bears have today, and from us all in Animals Asia, we wish you a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.