Rescued Buffalo Calf Receives a Warm Welcome
Animal Nepal recently welcomed a buffalo calf who has already captured our hearts. He was rescued from being sacrificed at the Gadhimai Festival in December 2024 and spent a few quiet months at a farm in the Terai region. But because he was the only animal at the farm, Animal Nepal grew concerned about his emotional wellbeing and decided to bring him to their sanctuary, so he could find companionship and care.
He has been named Asharam Bihari. Asharam means ‘one who is a protector’ or ‘embodiment of hope’. Bihari was added because he was intercepted on the Indian side of the border in Bihar, where people were trying to smuggle him into Nepal illegally.
The team are happy to share that his arrival has been met with gentle curiosity and affection from the sanctuary’s donkeys, who have taken him under their wing (or rather, their tails!). Watching interspecies friendships bloom reminds us of the deep emotional lives these animals lead — and why such sanctuaries need to exist.
Apart from the arrival of Asharam, Animal Nepal also focused on hoof trimming during May, with several of their animals receiving this special attention. Regular trimming is essential to keep hooves healthy, prevent pain, and ensure mobility — especially for animals like donkeys, mules and horses who often come to the sanctuary with neglected or overgrown hooves. All the animals handled their sessions like champions, and the results are already showing in their gait and comfort levels.
In addition to hoof care, staff also trimmed the horns of rescued bull Kumari, who has been living at the sanctuary for several years. As Kumari’s horns had grown long and started to pose a risk — both to himself and to others around him — the team decided it was time for a trim. Horn trimming, when done properly, is a quick and pain-free process that helps prevent accidental injuries in communal living spaces. Kumari handled the procedure with his usual calm strength, and he is looking more comfortable and is safer as a result.
The resident donkeys also received their new fly-repellent stockings, just in time for the warmer, bug-filled months. These breathable leg covers help protect them from irritating bites and infections, and the donkeys have taken to them quite well. They have been wearing them for many years now so are used to their stockings.
As always, thank you for your kind donations, which help fund crucial sanctuaries like Animal Nepal’s. Your support and generosity are allowing us to write new stories of rescue, recovery, and belonging. Together, we’re creating a world where animals are celebrated and cherished as family.