Elephant Rama brought into the wild SOS shows tragic, brutal abuse to which these majestic animals are subjected

The approximately 25-year-old ‘Makhna’ elephant is subjected to harsh and exploitative conditions, such as begging on the streets and participating in wedding processions.

Clockwise from top: Elephant Rama before his arrival at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital for treatment, (2) The vet takes an X-ray of the spine, (3) The elephant enjoys a fruit feast after his arrival, amid the lush natural environment of the Wildlife SOS elephant hospital campus. (4) The elephant’s chains are carefully removed just before treatment to reduce pain.

Rama the elephant: A male Asian elephant, estimated to be about 25 years old, has been brought to the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital Campus in Mathura by his owner. Realizing the need for urgent medical attention, the owner approached the Mathura Forest Department, which in turn recommended that the elephant be treated at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital.

The approximately 25-year-old ‘Makhna’ elephant is subjected to harsh and exploitative conditions, such as begging on the streets and participating in wedding processions. A thorough health survey conducted at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital Campus has revealed a disheartening state of affairs for the pachyderm. The elephant’s physical condition is characterized by extreme emaciation and dehydration, clouding of the corneas in both eyes, notches in the ears due to the use of bull-hooks, and multiple persistent, septic wounds attributed to the application of pointed bumps. Thermal imaging of the pachyderm’s hind and forelimbs has revealed generalized swelling, chronic abscesses, and overgrown toenails on all four limbs.

The young elephant is designed to carry heavy loads and has suffered multiple fractures to the spine, as confirmed by an X-ray report. This highlights the misconception that elephants can carry heavy loads without suffering damage. Elephants used for begging or entertainment are often tied with heavy saddles that alter their gait, cause pain and result in spinal protrusions.

The elephant is now under the vigilant care and supervision of the NGO’s veterinary team, where he is receiving much-needed rest, hydration and oral medications to ease his pain and speed his healing.

Dr. S Ilayaraja, Deputy Director, Veterinary Services, Wildlife SOS, said: “The condition of the elephant requires immediate and comprehensive attention to minimize the chances of an untoward prognosis. As an interim measure, the elephant has been provided with essential hydration through water and salt. In addition, the elephant is given oral supplements aimed at relieving pain and discomfort. These first steps are part of a broader strategy to facilitate the healing process and ensure the animal’s well-being.”

Kartick Satyanarayan, CEO and co-founder of Wildlife SOS, said: “The condition of this elephant underlines the urgency of providing long-term intensive veterinary treatment and care for the elephants used for begging and in processions. It also highlights the urgent need to introduce mandatory bi-annual inspections and veterinary health certificates for captive elephants.”

Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and secretary of Wildlife SOS, said: “The sight of this elephant’s suffering is deeply moving, exemplifying the immense physical and emotional pressure he must have endured. Wildlife SOS is committed to raising awareness about the need for protection and welfare of India’s majestic elephants.”