Jan Creamer of Animal Defenders International Speaks Out: Fighting for a World Without Animal Cruelty

Thanks Jan Creamer Animal Defenders International Executive Director and Green Living Guy here. On a chilly March afternoon, I sat down for an important conversation—one that goes beyond solar panels, EVs, and clean energy. This time, I brought you a story about compassion, courage, and action.

My guest was Jan Creamer, President and co-founder of Animal Defenders International (ADI). From rescuing lions from circus cages to lobbying governments for reform, Jan has spent her life fighting for animals that can’t fight for themselves.

In this exclusive episode of The Green Living Guy Show, Jan opened up about the ADI mission, their victories, and the work still ahead.

What Is Animal Defenders International?

Animal Defenders International is a global nonprofit focused on protecting animals from exploitation and abuse. Unlike many groups that simply raise awareness, ADI takes direct action.

Jan explained that ADI investigates behind the scenes—gathering undercover footage of animals mistreated in circuses, laboratories, and other industries. Once they have evidence, they campaign for laws, rescue animals, and work with governments to guarantee change lasts.

“We’ve seen lions kept in tiny cages, elephants shocked to do tricks, and monkeys isolated for years. Our job is to expose it, stop it, and save them,” said Jan.

Their operations span the globe, from South America to Europe, the U.S., and beyond.

Major Wins in the Fight Against Circus Cruelty

One of ADI’s most powerful victories came in Bolivia, where they worked with the government to ban wild animals in circuses. That law didn’t just pass. It launched an entire rescue mission.

Jan and her team removed animals from abusive environments and relocated them to sanctuaries. Lions that had never felt grass under their feet were now roaming wide-open spaces for the first time in their lives.

“We airlifted them ourselves—big cats, monkeys, bears. We gave them freedom,” Jan said.

That same model was repeated in Peru and Colombia, where ADI helped draft legislation, support enforcement, and finish massive rescue operations. These wins show what’s possible when activism meets strategic planning.

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The Work Isn’t Over Yet

Despite these victories, Jan made it clear: the fight continues.

There are still countries without bans. Still animals trapped in cages. Still companies profiting off pain.

Jan pointed out that circuses aren’t the only concern. Animals in testing labs, roadside zoos, and illegal wildlife trades face suffering every day. But with support from the public—and pressure on lawmakers—ADI believes meaningful change can spread.

“We’ve proven this model works,” Jan told me. “We just need to keep pushing.”

That’s why ADI continues to produce undercover investigations, push new laws, and build awareness through campaigns around the world.

How You Can Help

We also talked about what everyday people can do to make a difference. Jan gave three simple steps:

Don’t buy a ticket to animal-based circuses or shows. Support laws that protect animals from cruelty. Share the message—use your voice.

In short: make kind choices, stay informed, and never stay silent when you see injustice.

“When people stop supporting cruelty, it loses power,” she said.

Green Living Means Respecting All Life

As many of you know, The Green Living Guy isn’t just about clean cars and green tech. It’s also about how everything connects together. It’s all of life—how our actions ripple through ecosystems, affect animals, and shape the world we leave behind.

Jan’s work is a powerful example of that connection. It reminds us that sustainability isn’t only about energy—it’s about ethics.

We protect the Earth by protecting everything on it.

That’s why I’ll keep using this platform to spotlight changemakers like Jan Creamer. Whether it’s fighting deforestation, pushing electric vehicles, or rescuing lions, this community stands for action.

Listen Now: Full Interview with Jan Creamer

If you care about animals, justice, or just want to hear from someone doing real good in the world, check out the full podcast episode:

🎧 Listen to the interview with Jan Creamer from Animal Defenders International