Picture courtesy of Wildlife Rescue Centre.

 

A team of veterinarians and wildlife officers has provided urgent medical treatment to a wild elephant suffering from a severe infection in Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary. The injured elephant, a 20-year-old male, was found with an open wound under its belly, with blood and pus continuously oozing from the site.

 

On the evening of 1 February, Ekachai Saendee, head of the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, was alerted by local residents in Sanam Chai Khet District, Chachoengsao, about a wounded elephant in Suan Pa Sanam Chai. Blood-stained trails were visible in the areas the elephant had passed through.
 

Upon receiving the report, Ekachai coordinated with Matchamon Kaewprueksachai, head of the Wildlife Rescue Centre 2 (Krabok Khu), and Thiti Sonsa, head of the Chachoengsao Wildlife Research Station. More than 20 officers, including veterinarians and staff from the Forest Industry Organisation, were dispatched to provide assistance.

 

An initial examination revealed a deep infected wound approximately 15 cm wide and 4 cm deep near the elephant’s navel. Due to the severity of the infection and continuous discharge of pus, the veterinary team decided to sedate the elephant for immediate treatment. 

 

The procedure, which lasted over an hour, involved administering antibiotics to combat infection, pain relief medication, nutritional supplements, and anthelmintics to eliminate parasites. The wound was thoroughly cleaned with saline and antiseptic solution before applying antibiotic cream and wound powder. Additionally, blood samples were collected for further health analysis. The team will continue to monitor the elephant’s condition until the wound has completely healed.

 

Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Thailand’s most important forest reserves, covering over 674,352 rai, across Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Chanthaburi, Rayong, and Sa Kaeo provinces. It is the last remaining lowland forest in the country and provides a vital habitat for wild elephants and other rare wildlife species.

 

The head of the sanctuary urged the public to report any sightings of injured or sick wildlife to authorities immediately.

 

-- 2025-02-03

 

 

A job well done.. team effort.