defence

What is the meaning of their in “ิbeing active in their defence” in this context?
Does it mean the stars defence the animals?

Thank you

From Allyson Felix, who Skype-calls her dog, to Mike Tyson and his tigers, the stars of sport are capable of being crazy about their animals, but also of being active in their defence. Kevin Seraphin’s snake and Mourinho’s refusal to quarantine his dog, it’s all in Love vs Pets!

Reworded slightly:

“…the stars of sport are capable of being crazy about their animals. Sports stars are also capable of being active in the animals’ defence.”

Thank you very much Munch.