From Suffering To Sanctuary! Inside India’s First State-Of-The-Art Elephant Hospital In Mathura

Elephants have long been revered as cultural icons and symbols of strength, wisdom, and peace in India. Yet, despite their deep cultural significance, these gentle giants have faced tremendous challenges and suffering at the hands of humans. The lack of dedicated medical care only exacerbated their plight. Recognising the urgent need to address these issues, Wildlife SOS, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, took a monumental step in 2010 by establishing India’s first and only Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. In 2018, they achieved another historic milestone by establishing India’s first dedicated Elephant Hospital.

The Story Of India’s Elephant Hospital

 

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This conservation and care centre was created with a singular mission: to rescue, rehabilitate, and provide a safe haven for elephants that had been severely abused and exploited. It quickly became home to over 30 rescued elephants, each with a heart-wrenching story of suffering.  Despite the sanctuary’s success in providing a safe environment for these elephants, there was still a critical gap in their care—access to advanced medical treatment. 

Everything changed in 2018 with the opening of India’s first hospital exclusively for elephants by Wildlife SOS. Located near the ECCC in Mathura, this state-of-the-art facility spans 12,000 square feet. It is also equipped with modern medical technology specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of elephants. The facility is equipped with cutting-edge medical equipment, including wireless digital X-ray machines, laser therapy devices, ultrasonography, thermal imaging, and an in-house pathology lab. 

These tools enable the veterinary team to conduct comprehensive diagnoses and treatments. It ensures that each elephant receives the best possible care. The hospital also features a medical hoist to comfortably lift disabled elephants, a hydrotherapy pool to aid in their rehabilitation, and quarantine enclosures to prevent the spread of diseases.

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A New Dawn For Elephants

 

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The impact of the Elephant Hospital extends beyond just medical care. It has become a centre for learning and education, attracting veterinarians, biologists, and elephant caregivers from around the world. The significance of this hospital cannot be overstated. For the first time in India’s history, elephants gained access to a facility designed specifically for their needs. 

Hopefully, the knowledge gained from this facility will contribute to the global effort to protect and preserve the Asian elephant. By continuing to rescue, rehabilitate, and provide advanced medical care to elephants in need, Wildlife SOS is certainly paving the way for a brighter and more compassionate future for these majestic creatures.

The story of India’s first Elephant Hospital is not just a tale of advanced medical care. It’s also a story of hope, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit to right the wrongs of the past. Through this hospital, the once-suffering elephants of India are finally finding the peace and healing they deserve.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wildlife SOS/Website