Vital Care for an Injured Elephant: A Rescue Story

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In the expansive Mara Bush Tops area, vigilant patrols from Mara Bush Tops and KWS recently spotted an elephant displaying signs of distress within a herd of approximately twenty elephants.

Upon closer inspection, it was evident that the elephant had sustained an injury requiring urgent attention.

The elephant, amidst a diverse herd comprising several families, bore a visible wound on its right flank, characterized by the oozing of whitish purulent discharge. Remarkably, despite the injury, the elephant had maintained its body condition.

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Expertly executed, immobilization was achieved using 12mg of etorphine hydrochloride delivered via a 1.5m dart from a vehicle.

The elephant, displaying admirable calmness, succumbed to the effects of the drug after seven minutes, assuming a lateral recumbency position and facilitating a thorough examination.

Examination revealed a penetrating wound, approximately one week old, exhibiting signs of septicity and pus discharge.

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Measuring half an inch in diameter and seven inches deep, the wound, likely caused by an arrow, fortunately, avoided penetrating the abdominal muscles into the peritoneum.

Extensive probing yielded no foreign bodies, suggesting the potential dislodgment of the offending object.

Treatment ensued with meticulous lavaging of the wound using hydrogen peroxide to eliminate necrotic tissue, followed by rinsing with clean water and application of iodine tincture. Green clay was then expertly packed to absorb toxins and expedite healing.

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In addition to wound care, the elephant received 15000mg of amoxicillin antibiotics and 2000mg of Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory, administered intramuscularly to address potential infection and inflammation.

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Reversal

The reversal process was seamlessly executed by administering 36mg of diprenorphine hydrochloride via an ear vein.

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Within three minutes, the elephant regained consciousness, rejoining the rest of the herd.

This successful intervention underscores the critical role of timely and expert veterinary care in safeguarding the health and well-being of elephant populations, ensuring their continued vitality within their natural habitats.

Read more Elephant News.

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