You may remember the camel sanctuary we set up in Shaitrawa, India, in partnership with Friendicoes. There are now 63 residents at the sanctuary, who are all being supported due to your generosity and compassion!

As part of routine summer management, several health and grooming measures were undertaken recently to ensure the wellbeing of the rescued camels during the intense heat of this season.

1. Hair Clipping

To help camels cope with the high temperatures, all animals in the shelter underwent hair clipping. This practice significantly aids in regulating body temperature during the hot months.

2. Mange Treatment

A total of 45 camels showing signs of mange were treated with ivermectin injections. In some cases, animals were also given medicated baths to relieve their symptoms and promote healing.

3. Eye Injuries

Ten camels sustained eye injuries, which is commonly caused by grazing out in the open. Their eyes were cleansed with cold water and medicated eye drops were applied to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

4. Lacerated Wounds

Five camels suffered from lacerations, primarily due to fencing wire injuries. Their wounds were thoroughly cleaned with antiseptics, then appropriate dressings were applied to promote healing and prevent infection.

5. Oral Lacerations

Oral injuries were observed in a few camels due to consumption of hard feed. Their mouths were cleaned, and glycerine was applied to soothe the lacerations and support healing.

6. Colic

Four animals were treated for colic.

Overall, approximately 58 camels received treatments for various health issues last month, ensuring their continued welfare in the challenging summer conditions.

New Rescue - Heera

Heera was found abandoned with a painful injury to her foreleg. Now she is safe at Friendicoes’ shelter and receiving all the care she needs.

New Motorcycle Funded by AAA

We recently funded a new motorcycle for use at the camel sanctuary. This will be used by the main caretaker, Gopal, and other herdsmen to travel further and help more camels in this remote region. It will also be used to bring the 63 rescued camels back to the sanctuary at the end of the day. The camels forage and roam widely but always happily return to the sanctuary.

Although Gopal and his staff members are very hardy, the desert terrain and high temperatures make this area difficult to access, so the new motorcycle will make their lives much easier.