Foreign veterinary experts are intensifying treatment for Madhubala, an ailing African elephant suffering from tuberculosis and other health complications at the Safari Park in Karachi, Pakistan.
Egyptian veterinarian, Dr Amir Khalil, who is part of the treatment team, said Madhubala had lost more than 200 kilogrammes of body weight, suffered significant muscle loss and developed swelling in one leg, as well as wounds around her nails and feet.
Khalil said the elephant had also suffered bacterial and parasitic infections, but blood test results had improved after three weeks of intensive treatment.
He stressed that strict adherence to the medication protocol remained essential to her recovery.
The park invited the foreign veterinary experts after Madhubala’s health continued to deteriorate.
The elephant reportedly collapsed twice in her enclosure in recent weeks, raising concerns about her condition.
Despite the challenges, Khalil expressed optimism about her recovery, citing the dedication and cooperation of the veterinary team.
He said the team remained committed to her treatment because it believed there was still hope.
Meanwhile, animal rights activists have renewed calls for wildlife to be allowed to live in their natural habitats rather than being kept in zoos or private facilities.
An activist, Jade Allen, described captivity as harmful to wildlife and advocated keeping animals in their natural environments.
Allen said wildlife should not be confined to zoos or private farmhouses, stressing the importance of protecting animals in their natural habitats.
