reaching india’s forgotten camels: providing veterinary care, safety & sanctuary

Animal Aid Abroad, together with our partner Friendicoes, operates a sanctuary in Jodhpur, India, dedicated to abandoned, injured, and sick camels. Thanks to your compassionate support, the sanctuary team recently treated 145 camels for a range of ailments and rescued a vulnerable camel calf who had been abandoned on the roadside.

Seasonal Care and Outreach

With the onset of summer, all camels at the sanctuary had their hair clipped to help them stay cool in rising temperatures. Beyond the sanctuary, Friendicoes’ outreach team attended to 94 camels in nearby villages, delivering timely veterinary care with the aid of a motorbike that allows access to remote areas.

Improving Welfare Through Innovation

In a significant welfare initiative, traditional wooden nose pegs — which often cause painful injuries and infections — were replaced with safer plastic alternatives. In March, 50 plastic nose pegs were distributed to camel owners, preventing nostril damage and reducing the risk of maggot wounds. This simple intervention is already improving daily welfare for working camels.

Health Issues and Treatments

The sanctuary team treated camels for common conditions such as colic, mange, respiratory infections, indigestion, and injuries caused by equipment or accidents. Mange, the most widespread problem among Indian camels, was addressed with Ivermectin injections. Wounds from fencing wire, saddle injuries, and nose peg trauma were cleaned, dressed, and treated with antibiotics and pain relief. Eye injuries from grazing accidents were managed with medicated drops, restoring comfort and vision.

Rescue Highlight: A Camel Calf’s New Beginning

In Dechu Village, a young camel calf was found abandoned on the highway, likely due to weakness or poverty. She was rescued and brought to the sanctuary, where she is now receiving treatment, nutrition, and care. Her story reflects AAA’s mission to turn burden into care, ensuring that even the most vulnerable animals are not forgotten.

Global Impact Made Possible by You

The sanctuary currently houses thriving residents who are finally experiencing peace and safety. Every treatment, rescue, and welfare initiative is powered by your generosity. Together, AAA and Friendicoes are proving that local partnerships are the key to global change — transforming suffering into compassion for India’s forgotten camels.