Disabled elephant calf airlifted to Gujarat for specialist bone disorder treatment

Animal welfare authorities in Kerala have arranged the transfer of a young elephant calf with a debilitating genetic bone disorder to Vantara, a specialized animal care facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The 18-month-old calf has been unable to stand or walk due to its condition and requires treatment beyond the scope of available resources at the Kodanad elephant centre in Kerala.

Moving the immobilized calf presented significant logistical challenges. Staff employed a crane and coordinated efforts of 10-12 personnel to safely transfer the animal from the Kodanad facility into a specially equipped animal ambulance. The operation was conducted with veterinary oversight to ensure the calf's safety throughout the process.

Following the ground transfer, the calf was transported to Kochi airport for the next phase of its journey. A chartered flight has been arranged to carry the young elephant to Jamnagar, where it will receive specialized treatment at Vantara. Veterinary experts will accompany the calf during the aerial transport to provide continuous monitoring and care.

The transfer represents a collaborative effort among Kerala's animal welfare authorities and specialists at the Gujarat facility to provide the young elephant with access to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Officials anticipate that the specialized environment at Vantara will offer the best prospects for managing the calf's genetic condition.