KARACHI: A team of foreign veterinarians successfully conducted a complex procedure to save a sick elephant at Karachi zoo on Wednesday.
Noor Jehan, a 17-year-old elephant who was brought to Karachi over a decade ago, has been experiencing a number of health issues, including arthritis.
Videos of her struggling to stand and leaning her head against a tree have caused concern in Pakistan.
The eight-member team from the Austrian animal welfare organization, Four Paws, used a crane and a fire truck to perform the critical procedure. They found a large hematoma in her abdomen through an ultrasound, which was affecting her organs.
The team led by Dr Amir Khalil, which included veterinarians from Egypt, Bulgaria, and an elephant husbandry expert from Germany, were able to successfully treat Noor Jehan, but not without challenges. Dr Khalil said that Noor Jehan nearly died when they gave her sedation, but fortunately, they were prepared, and she eventually stood up again.
The procedure was attended by the governor of Sindh as well as animal rights activists. Dr Khalil said that it was decided to shift Noor Jehan to a better place.
He added that they plan to move her to a larger area where she can move freely, and undergo treatments such as water massage and movement, as there are many options available for her.
Despite her health issues, Dr Khalil expressed hope that Noor Jehan would live for another 20 or 30 years. The successful operation by the team of veterinarians from Four Paws is a positive development in the fight for animal welfare in Pakistan. It highlights the importance of international collaborations and expertise in treating and caring for animals, particularly those in vulnerable and challenging situations. Noor Jehan’s condition had been a cause for concern for animal rights activists in the country.
