We are a group of people dedicated to saving lives – we rescue animals that would otherwise be killed (for various reasons, and often brutally) and release them into their natural environment with the conditions to survive.

In the Buddhist tradition, protecting beings from suffering and premature death is a powerful practice of compassion. We all know that taking the life of a being is a very bad thing, and contrary to ethics. Conversely, saving a life is a virtuous act of extreme significance.

By releasing the animals, we pray for their wellbeing and spiritual connection, and conclude the ceremony with dedications.

Everyone, Buddhist or non-Buddhist, is welcome to take part!

Every year, Tulku Pema Wangyal Rinpoche aspires to release a certain number of beings around the world, with the intention of bringing benefit and wellbeing not only to the saved animals and insects, but to all beings.

People from various countries take part in this activity and release lives every month, from very small insects and fish to larger animals such as horses and cows.

In Portugal, Tulku Pema Wangyal Rinpoche and his students often practice saving lives.

On one of these occasions, the beautiful documentary A Compassionate Journey was produced. Find out more at Fundação Kangyur Rinpoche