A Month of Challenges & Joys at Animal Nepal’s Sanctuary
For Animal Nepal, August was a month of both challenges and reassurance as they continued caring for their beloved residents.
One of their oldest and most cherished sanctuary members, Markhu, has been facing increasing health difficulties. Markhu has been with them for over a decade, arriving more than 10 years ago with a serious case of tendonitis in his front left leg.
Over the years, the team have provided him with dedicated care but, unfortunately, age has begun to take its toll. In recent weeks, Markhu’s tendonitis has worsened. He now struggles to put weight on his left hoof, forcing him to compensate by shifting much of his weight onto his right front leg. This imbalance places extra strain on his body and has begun affecting his overall mobility. Despite these challenges, Animal Nepal staff are deeply relieved he continues to eat and drink well, showing his strong spirit and will to live.
To ensure his comfort and to manage his pain and inflammation, Markhu is receiving daily medication and close monitoring from vets:
Flunixine – a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to help reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness.
Prednisolone – a corticosteroid used to manage inflammation and provide relief from swelling and discomfort.
Conciplex – a multivitamin supplement that supports his overall strength, appetite and immunity.
It is possible that Markhu’s journey at Animal Nepal’s sanctuary is in its twilight years, but the team remain committed to making every day as comfortable, peaceful and loving as possible for him. He has given them his trust for over a decade, and they will honor that trust with the very best care possible.
Meanwhile, all the other sanctuary animals are healthy and doing well. Last month, the ruminants were given their Foot and Mouth Disease vaccinations, which is a vital step in protecting them from this highly contagious viral disease. Preventive health measures like these are a core part of the sanctuary’s work to ensure long-term wellbeing.
After vet technician, Mana, rejoined Animal Nepal after a couple of years away, this month it has been heartwarming to witness the bond rekindled between him and rescued mule, Moksh. Their history goes back many years. When Moksh was younger, he was known for his wild and unpredictable temperament, and there were a few near misses for Mana while grooming and treating him. With age, Moksh has grown much calmer and seems particularly attached to Mana - often seeking him out and showing great trust in him. Watching them together has been a reminder of how deep and lasting the relationships between humans and animals can be.
On another note, the Government of Nepal has announced plans to block major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. If this ban comes into effect, it may temporarily impact Animal Nepal’s ability to connect on these platforms. In preparation, they have launched a TikTok account, where they will continue to share updates, stories and moments from the sanctuary. We encourage you to follow them there so you can stay in touch with the lives of the animals you help support.
We are so grateful to all of our donors for helping us support this special sanctuary in Nepal. Your support makes this sanctuary a true home for those who need it most.