A collaborative effort between the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) has successfully treated an injured elephant suffering from severe lameness within Mpala and Ol Jogi Conservancies.
The operation involved careful tracking and using a copter to immobilize the elephant safely, allowing the team to examine and treat it thoroughly.
The elephant was first spotted by scouts patrolling the boundary of Mpala and Ol Jogi Conservancies on October 31, 2016.
Despite initial attempts to locate and treat the animal, it was not until November 12, 2016, that KWS rangers in Ol Jogi Conservancy managed to find the elephant again.
DSWT played a crucial role by providing a helicopter to assist in the immobilization and treatment.
A 20mg dose of Captivon® was administered via a dart to the elephant’s dorsal lumbar muscles, and within five minutes, the anesthetic took effect, allowing the team to examine the elephant safely.
During the examination, the team discovered a small puncture wound about 1 centimeter wide that penetrated into the elephant’s carpal joint.
Using forceps, they found the wound to be over 15 centimeters deep, indicating a gunshot injury, even though there was no exit wound.
The veterinary team cleaned the wound thoroughly, removed dead tissue with hydrogen peroxide, and applied a topical antiseptic.
The elephant was also given antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and prevent infection.
However, the team expressed concern about the elephant’s recovery due to the complexity of the joint injury.
They emphasized the need for ongoing monitoring to evaluate the elephant’s response to treatment and to address any complications that may arise.
This successful partnership between KWS and DSWT demonstrates the importance of joint efforts in wildlife conservation.
While the elephant begins its path to recovery, continuous observation and dedicated care will be essential, especially considering the challenges posed by the gunshot wound to its carpal joint.
Read more Elephant News.
