In November 2018, India witnessed a groundbreaking development for elephant welfare and Conservation with the establishment of the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. Over the past five years, this facility has emerged as a symbol of hope and innovation, redefining the landscape of advanced medical care for rescued elephants.
The Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital stands out for its commitment to staying at the forefront of elephant care.
The facility boasts state-of-the-art equipment, including digital X-ray machines, Photobiomodulation Therapy Units, ultrasonography devices, and a hydrotherapy pool, all contributing to the precise diagnosis and treatment of injured elephants.
The hospital also features quarantine facilities for contagious diseases, an observation deck with CCTV for round-the-clock care, and a comprehensive pathology lab equipped with cutting-edge technology.
The hospital has carved its niche by specializing in geriatric elephant care, wound care, eye issues, musculoskeletal issues, and neurological issues.
Notably, the facility prioritizes tailored foot care and addresses the mobility needs of rescued elephants. With wireless and portable equipment, the Elephant Hospital offers on-site as well as doorstep medical care across India, organizing health camps and training programs to ensure proficiency in the latest technology and approaches in elephant healthcare.
To further the cause of elephant conservation and promote scientific research, the hospital includes an independent interpretation center and an observation window for veterinarians, caregivers, and biologists worldwide.
This initiative allows professionals to visit and observe the practicalities of veterinary care for elephants, fostering a global exchange of knowledge and expertise in the field.
In its five years of existence, the Elephant Hospital has provided care for over 20 elephants.
The most recent addition, Rama, a makhna elephant, was brought to the hospital with a broken spine after a life of begging and participating in wedding processions.
The hospital has also assisted elephants like Lakshmi, severely malnourished, and Raju, a bull elephant who now resides in the sanctuary after treatment.
The founders of Wildlife SOS, including Kartick Satyanarayan and Geeta Seshamani, envision the Elephant Hospital’s innovative approach as a catalyst for policy-level change in the care of over 2,600 captive elephants across India.
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This article by Trinity Sparke was first published by One Green Planet on 17 November 2023. Image Credit :Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital.
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