In the expansive Mara Bush Tops region, vigilant patrols led by Mara Bush Tops and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) recently spotted a distressed elephant among a herd of about twenty elephants.

Upon closer examination, it was evident that the elephant had sustained an injury requiring immediate attention. Despite the injury, the elephant remarkably maintained its overall body condition.

The immobilization process was carefully executed using 12mg of etorphine hydrochloride administered through a 1.5m dart launched from a vehicle.

After seven minutes, the elephant succumbed to the drug’s influence, allowing for a thorough examination.

The inspection revealed a deep wound on the elephant’s right flank, which was estimated to be about a week old.

Although infected, the wound fortunately did not penetrate the abdominal muscles or reach the peritoneum.

Efforts to probe for foreign bodies yielded no results, indicating the possible dislodgment of the object causing the injury.

Treatment commenced with the irrigation of the wound using hydrogen peroxide to eliminate necrotic tissue, followed by a rinse with clean water and the application of iodine tincture. Green clay was then packed into the wound to absorb toxins and aid healing.

Additionally, the elephant received 15,000mg of amoxicillin antibiotics and 2,000mg of Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory intramuscularly to prevent infection and inflammation.

The reversal procedure was smoothly carried out by administering 36mg of diprenorphine hydrochloride through an ear vein.

Remarkably, within three minutes, the elephant regained consciousness and rejoined its 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 sustained vitality in their natural habitats.