On the 14th February 2012, the Forest Department from Bukkapatnam Range, called us to help to rescue a paralyzed leopard that appeared to have severe injuries to his hind legs. Narendra from Karuna went to the area to coordinate the rescue where our truck joined him with medication and support. The leopard was identified as an adult male, about 7 years of age.
Dr Ashraf from the WTI (Wildlife Trust of India) was called for counseling about the anesthetic and first aid treatment. Thank you, Dr Ashraf, for your support. No local veterinary doctor was available at that time. The forest department here has no equipment, nor expertise, nor medication to handle a situation like this. Narendra was able to administer the medication and, with a net, the leopard was put into the truck and brought safely to Karuna Wildlife Rescue Center where he stayed overnight.
The DFO (District Forest Officer) from Anantapur, arrived the next day with more officials and it was decided that the leopard had to be transferred to the Tirupathi Zoo for further treatment. Again Narendra and our attendants managed to bring the leopard in the truck with the help of a net and the dog catching stick. That night, the leopard was delivered safely by our truck to the Tirupathi Zoo. We received a compliment for handling the animal with the least possible stress. The next morning we contacted the veterinary doctor in-charge of the leopard at the zoo and he informed us that the animal is being treated and seems to be making progress.
The latest news we have regarding the leopard is that he is improving. There is sensation in the legs but he is not yet able to stand. It is doubtful if he can go back to the wild, he might have to stay at the zoo. He needs some more time to heal. In a few days we will be able to have a better picture.