DSWT/KWS Quarterly Mobile Veterinary Report July-Sept15 by Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

MOBILE VET UNITS TSAVO – MARA – MERU AMBOSELI REPORT JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2015

MOBILE VETERINARY UNITS OVERVIEW JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2015 During the July to August 2015 3-month reporting period the DSWT in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service and their four dedicated KWS field veterinary officers, attended to 110 wildlife cases. This shows a significant increase of over 50% in cases compared to the last reporting period in 2015, which saw just 48 cases attended to. This escalation in cases can be contributed to the dry season which historically sees an increase in poaching related activities triggered by wildlife congregating around dwindling water points throughout the Parks, creating easy targets for poachers. Out of 70 elephants treated overall, 48 were treated for direct poaching injuries including 25 elephants injured with poisoned arrows and 15 elephants attacked with spears. Other cases included rescues, post-mortems, natural causes and non-medical cases. Other wildlife cases included predators, rhinos, giraffe, and a number of other species.

Out of all of these emergency operations 58% of the treatments had a successful outcome, whilst 23% of the cases were sadly reached too late to save or died during treatment due to the severity of their injuries. Those 6% of cases given a poor prognosis have been monitored by all parties involved in the operation, with the DSWTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aerial Unit and one of the Mobile Veterinary Units close at hand should a follow up treatment be needed. Positively, a number of the elephant calf rescues were successful in that they managed to reunite the calf back with its mother and herd; many of these cases were due to baby elephants falling into watering holes and being unable to get back out, which is all too common during the dry season as elephants desperately search for water.

TSAVO MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2015

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2015 Introduction The region continued to experience relative calmness with few cases reported, unfortunately some cases were serious and fatal. Cases handled included the rescue of a speared elephant calf that succumbed to its injuries in Ziwani, an adult elephant cow shot resulting in a fractured hind limb in Bamba area of coast conservation area, treatment of a speared elephant in Amboseli national park, treatment of an elephant bull with and arrow wound in Irima, Tsavo East, treatment of injured calf in Lualenyi Ranch and rescue and final diagnosis of a rabid Jackal in Tsavo east. Security Dog treatment and 3 elephant calf rescues were also undertaken. The Vet Unit also attended a court session in Malindi to give an expert testimony on poachers arrested with 8 leopard and 2 serval cat skins.

Salaita Elephant Treatment and Rescue, 2nd July 2015

Case History This elephant calf was reported by fence attendants as being injured with multiple wounds visible on the surface of the body. They covered her with grass and tree branches to protect her from the scorching sun. Examination and treatment The calf was lifted up to be examined and she appeared very dehydrated with 4 puncture wounds to the body. There was a suppurating deep wound to the left rib cage, another to the thigh, a deeper one to the femoral attachment to the pelvis and the fourth to the right shoulder joint that appeared recently inflicted. The wounds looked to be inflicted by a spear and very painful. The calf was fed on milk diluted with water to hydrate the thirsty calf. The wounds were cleaned with water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide in a ratio of 1:1, doused with tincture of Iodine, sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and covered with green clay. Long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone were administered by injection. The calf was deemed too weak to survive in the wild and plans were made to rescue him. Information was relayed to DSWT Nairobi office to arrange for an aircraft to airlift the calf to the nursery as the team moved the injured calf to Ziwani airstrip. Unfortunately the calf succumbed to its injuries shortly before the aircraft arrived.

Euthanasia of a Female Elephant with a Bullet Wound; Bamba area, Kilifi County, 6thJuly 2015

Case History A report was received from the KWS security officers of an injured elephant spotted near Bamba Township together with four others with leg carrying lameness. This elephant was falling and being helped to stand by other members of the herd. The team had rushed to the area the previous day but could not find the elephants due to thick bush. A helicopter was called in and assisted in spotting the elephant. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was easily spotted from the chopper lying down with the other elephants surrounding her. The helicopter landed nearby and waited for the ground team to arrive by vehicle. The team arrived and moved to the site where the elephants were and found the lone injured elephant still lying down on her right flank and struggling to stand. She was anaesthetized using 15 mgs of Etorphine and the injured limb examined closely. There was a penetrating wound to the left thigh with swelling of the muscles, tenderness and bending of the limb distal to the injury. Probing revealed a fractured femoral bone with hemorrhaging. A decision was made to euthanize the elephant as the wounds were untreatable. Post mortem diagnosis An autopsy confirmed the diagnosis of a complex femoral fracture and a bullet head was recovered from the injured site.

Treatment of a Male Elephant with an Arrow Wound; Irima, Tsavo East, 13th July 2015

Case History A report was made to the unit by DSWT de-snaring team of an injured elephant bull foraging near Irima hill with pus dripping from the abdominal wall. The team rushed in to find the massive bull near the area together with another bull. A team from CNN international flew in from Ithumba to film the treatment exercise. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18mgs Etorphine and 60 mgs of Xylazine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart from a vehicle. The helicopter was used to keep the elephant from running into thick bush. He was immobilized in 7 minutes and went down lying on the injured flank. Ropes were fastened around the front legs and he was rolled onto the other side using the vet vehicle. Examination revealed a penetrating arrow wound with an accumulation of pus below it in a pouch. An incision was made into the lowest part of the pouch so the pus could drain. The wound was then cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, disinfected with tincture of Iodine and then green clay was applied. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using intravenous administration of Diprenorphine hcl at 3 times the Etorphine dose.

Rescue of an Elephant Calf; Sentrim, Tsavo East, 19th July 2015

Rescue A calf was stuck in a waterhole with its mother attempting to extract it. The Vet Unit were able to extract the calf and reunite it with its mother. No images available 5.

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with a Spear Wound; Amboseli National Park, 24th July 2015

Case History A report was made to the unit by the Amboseli Vet Unit of an injured elephant bull foraging near Amboseli park headquarters with blood dripping from the right abdominal wall. Due to the absence of the resident vet, the Tsavo vet was airlifted to the park by a DSWT aircraft from Voi, a distance of about 300kms to find a team waiting and keeping an eye on the injured bull. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18mgs Etorphine and 60 mgs of Xylazine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart from a vehicle with a Dan inject dart rifle. The Elephant was immobilized in 18 minutes and went down in a sitting posture and had to be pulled onto lateral recumbency by use of ropes and a vehicle. A fresh deep penetrating spear wound with hemorrhage was observed to the right abdomen. Blood was drained from the wound before it was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide. Tincture of iodine was then sprayed into the wound to disinfect it and green clay applied to facilitate healing. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was administered through the ear vein and long acting Amoxycillin administered intramuscularly. At this point the elephant suddenly woke up and moved few yards before going down again. Reversal After initial wake up a dart filled with Diprenorphine was used but did not take effect. A mixture of 0.5 cc Naltrexone and 2 cc Diprenorphine intravenous injection worked well.

Rescue of an Elephant Calf; Pipeline, 26th July 2015

Rescue A calf fell in a steep sided waterhole at the pipeline. The Vet Unit were able to extract the calf and reunite it with its family. No images available 7.

Examination of a Rabid Jackal; Voi Wildlife Lodge, Tsavo East, 28th July 2015

Case History This silver backed Jackal was spotted near Voi wildlife lodge hiding in a water drainage trench and did not move even when disturbed. It appeared blind as it could not follow a person moving close to it. The Jackal was captured using a net and taken to the unit clinic where it was placed in a holding cage. Examination and treatment Examination revealed that the jackal was blind with injuries to the ears and showed signs of lameness. It was given an injection of Enrofloxacin and Dexamethasone and fed on small pieces of beef. It succumbed a day later and was placed in a freezer before it was taken to Mariakani Veterinary Investigation Laboratory for diagnosis of Rabies. The results returned a positive rabies case after brain tissue fluorescent antibody test (FAT).

Treatment of a Juvenile Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Lualenyi Tsavo West, 27th July 2015

Case History The DSWT de-snaring teams spotted an injured 5 year old elephant in a group of 6 other elephants limping and struggling to keep up with the family. Due to the distance from the road, helicopter assistance was sought. The helicopter was used to separate the family members from the sick individual. Immobilization, examination and treatment Darting was done from a vehicle using 6 mgs of Etorphine Hcl propelled in a dan-inject dart gun using a Dan inject dart rifle. The helicopter was used to keep the family at a safe distance and the elephant was immobilized in 5 minutes and went down on the left flank. A penetrating arrow wound with an accumulation of pus was observed to the right elbow joint. The pus was drained and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine was sprayed onto the wound and it was then covered in green clay. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 60 cc of Amoxicillin administered by intramuscular injection. Reversal The anesthesia was reversed through intravenous administration of Diprenorphinehcl at 3 times Etorpine dose. Prognosis Prognosis is guarded due to elbow joint infection.

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2015 Introduction The area experienced an increase in cases of injuries from poaching attempts especially of adult bulls near Ithumba by use of arrow shots. Another case of an injured sub adult bull was treated near Kaluku, the DSWT headquarters. In areas of disease diagnosis after last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s positive testing for rabies in a jackal, a Hyena that attacked a worker at Tsavo camp within the park, and which was later killed, also tested positive for rabies. Other cases attended to included treatment of a speared elephant in Amboseli National Park, the rescue of a young elephant bull that got stuck in mud near Galdesa camp, treatment of an elephant calf injured by a lion attack as well as undertaking an autopsy of elephant carcasses. The vet also attended a court session in Mariakani to give an expert testimony on poachers arrested with 2 elephant tusks.

Treatment Of An Injured Male Elephant Calf, Satao Tsavo East, 4th August 2015

Case History The elephant calf was spotted near Satao camp water hole with its mother, struggling to drink water. The calf appeared in great pain and was carrying leg lameness of the front left limb. Close approach to the calf was not possible as the mother was protective and aggressive. A decision to immobilise both the mother and calf to prevent them from separating was arrived at. Immobilization, examination and treatment The mother was immobilized with 16 mgs of Etorphine in a dan-inject dart from a dan inject dart gun and she went down after 7 minutes with the calf beside her. Physical restraint of the calf was difficult and 2 mgs of Etorphine was administered by intravenous injection which calmed him down. There was a deep injury to the left hind limb at the elbow joint with the joint infected. The injury is believed to have been from lion bite attacks in attempted predation. The wound was squeezed to remove pus and cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide. Tincture of iodine and Oxytetracycline spray were applied before a final cover of wetted green clay was packed in the wound. An intravenous administration of 15 cc Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 20 cc of long acting Amoxicillin injected intramuscularly. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed by administration of DiprenorphineHcl at three times the Etorphine dose. They both woke up at the same time and walked away together. Prognosis Prognosis is guarded

Treatment Of A Bull Elephant, Kitirua Amboseli National Park, 5th August 2015

Case History Report was received from the KWS security officers of an injured elephant bull spotted near Kitirua gate within Amboseli National park with what appeared to be a spear wound to the right abdominal wall and oozing blood. As the resident vet was away, the Tsavo vet was airlifted by KWS aircraft to the area to attend to the injured bull. He was easily spotted nearby foraging on grass. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18mg Etorphine and Xylazine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan inject dart rifle from a vehicle. The Elephant was immobilized in 7 minutes and went down lying on the left flank. A fresh deep penetrating spear wound was observed to the right abdominal wall. The blood was drained and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of Iodine was sprayed into the wound and wetted green clay applied. Dexamethasone Hcl and long acting Amoxicillin were administered intravenously and intramuscularly respectively. Reversal Anaesthetic reversal was done by administration of Diprenorphine Hcl intravenously through the ear vein. The elephant easily woke up and walked away. Prognosis Good

Rescue and Treatment Of A Young Male Elephant, Galdesa Tsavo East, 6th August 2015

Rescue This young bull got stuck in the muddy banks of Galana River near Galdesa camp after trying to forage within the river banks. The report was received late in the evening and the team rushed to the area in the morning to find the struggling elephant nearly submerged in thick mud. The team went in with ropes and vehicle but experienced a lot of difficulties due to the steep banks, thick vegetation and muddy surrounding. The elephant was pulled out of the mud but could not wake up due to weakness. It was finally pulled out of the river banks and into dry land and assisted onto his feet. The operation took 7 hours to complete. He was treated for massive Hyena bites on the ears by administration of long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Prognosis Prognosis is guarded

Elephant Calf Stuck at Pipeline, Mzima Pipeline Tsavo East, 7th August 2015

Report A calf was reported stuck at the Mzima Pipeline. The Veterinary Unit responded quickly but the report came in to late and the calf was dead on arrival. No images available

Treatment Of A Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Kaluku Tsavo East, 10th August 2015

Case History An elephant bull was seen by DSWT pilot near the airstrip with a wound on the right thigh that was oozing pus. The vet team was airlifted to the area. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18mg Etorphine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan injectdart rifle from a helicopter. The helicopter prevented the elephant from running into thick bush whilst the drugs took effect. He was immobilized in 7 minutes and went down lying on the injured flank. Ropes fastened to the front legs were used to roll him over using the vet vehicle. A penetrating arrow wound with accumulation of pus below it was observed. An incision was made at the lowest point of the pus filled pouch; the pus was drained and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine was sprayed on the wound and wetted green clay applied. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and long acting amoxicillin administered parenterally. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed by administration of Diprenorphine at three times the Etorphine dose intravenously through the ear vein. Prognosis Good.

Diagnosis of Rabies in Male Spotted Hyena, Tsavo Safari Camp, Tsavo East, 10th August 2015

Case History Rabies is acute encephalitis caused by global RNA viruses in the genus Lyssavirus, family Rhabdoviridae. Virtually every mammal is susceptible to rabies but the natural disease occurs predominantly in domestic and wild carnivores. In different geographic areas, usually one or two species predominate as vectors. In Tsavo Rabies was previously diagnosed in a Zebra foal bitten by a dog in the Chyulus and a tourist was infected, and later succumbed to rabies after being scratched by a bat in Tsavo West National Park. A male Hyena was killed by staff of Tsavo safari camp on the banks of Galana River after it attacked one of their staff members biting his arm and causing serious injury. The hyena walked across the camp in the morning of 10th August 2015 without fear of people and showed signs of vocalization, aggressiveness, biting objects before cornering the boat operator and injuring him at the banks of the River. The Hyena was killed immediately. The injured worker was airlifted to Voi county hospital where he was treated and put on PEP vaccination. The Hyena was beheaded and the head preserved in a freezer before being submitted to the veterinary investigation laboratory in Mariakani for Rabies diagnosis. The results were received one week later being positive through rapid antigen test and sellers stained slide microscopy tests. This is the first case of Rabies diagnosis in Hyena in Tsavo. Due to the distance between this case and last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rabies diagnosis in Silver backed jackal we think these are isolated incidences and not a sign of an outbreak of Rabies in the Tsavo ecosystem.

Treatment Of A Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Ithumba Tsavo East, 12th August 2015

Report A report was received from Ithumba in the north of Tsavo east of an injured elephant bull that is well known to the orphanage keepers there. A plane was sent down to Voi to pick the vet for fast response. After search the initial bull was not spotted but another two were seen with injuries. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18mg Etorphine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan injectdart rifle from a vehicle whilst the helicopter was used to keep the elephant from running into thick bush. The Elephant was darted and was immobilized after 20 minutes and went down lying on the right flank exposing the wounded side. A penetrating arrow wound was observed to the left abdominal wall. An incision was made at the lowest point of the swelling so the pus could be drained and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine was sprayed on the wound and wetted green clay applied. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was administered through the ear vein. Reversal To reverse the anesthetic an intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was administered through the ear vein. Prognosis Good

Treatment Of A Bull Elephant with an Arrow Injuries, Ithumba Tsavo East, 12th August 2015

Case History After the team was through with treatment of the first elephant, they embarked on treating a huge bull with big tusks also with arrow injuries. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18mg Etorphine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan inject dart rifle from a vehicle whilst the helicopter was used to keep the elephant from running into thick bush. The Elephant was darted and the helicopter attempted to guide it to an open area near the airstrip but it refused and was immobilized after 8 minutes, lying on the injured flank. Ropes and a tractor were used to turn him over to access the injured side. A penetrating arrow wound was observed on the left abdominal wall. An incision was made at the lowest point of the pus collection under the skin. The pus was drained and wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine was sprayed on the wound and wetted green clay applied. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed by intravenous administration of Diprenorphine hcl at 3 times the Etorphine dose. He struggled to get up and once more the tractor was called in, the elephant was tied with ropes and pulled onto its feet. Prognosis Good

Treatment Of A Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wounds, Ithumba Tsavo East, 13th August 2015

Case History After the team were through with the treatment of the two elephants and returned to Voi the elephant being sought initially for treatment re-appeared. The next morning the vet team was quickly airlifted by the DSWT aeroplane from Voi where they found the helicopter on standby to assist in the operation. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised using 18mg Etorphine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan injectdart rifle from a vehicle whilst the helicopter was used to keep the elephant from running into thick bush. It was immobilized after 12 minutes and went down lying on his chest but shortly fell on the injured side. Ropes and a tractor were used to turn him over to access the injured side. A penetrating arrow wound was observed on the left abdominal wall. An incision was made at the lowest point of the wound. The pus was drained, the dead flesh cut out and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine was sprayed on the wound and wetted green clay applied. An intravenous administration of dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and long acting amoxicillin administered by intra muscular injection. Reversal Reversal of the anaesthetic was attained through intravenous administration of Diprenorphinehcl at 3 times the Etorphine dose. He struggled to get up so the tractor was called in and with the use of ropes the elephant was pulled to his feet. The helicopter pushed him away from the teams involved in treatment. Prognosis Good

10. Treatment Of A Security Dog, Tsavo Vet Clinic, 13th August 2015 Case History A security dog involved in anti-poaching activities based in Dakota camp, Tsavo east was treated for anorexia and weakness at the vet clinic and recovered well. The dog, known as Julie responded well to treatment and follow up revealed recovery. No images available 11. Examination, Euthanasia and Autopsy of an Elephant Bull, Rukinga Wildlife Works, 26th August 2015 Case History An elephant bull was reported to have been hit by a ranch vehicle on the night of 25th and could hardly walk; it was easily spotted when the vet unit rushed to the area the next morning. Immobilization and examination The elephant was immobilised using 18mg Etorphine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan inject dart rifle from a vehicle. The elephant was darted and did not move due to the pain in the hind leg. It was immobilized after 10 minutes and went down lying on his chest before being pushed to its side by hand. Examination revealed a complete fracture of the right hind limb near the tarsal joint. For obvious reasons this is a poor prognosis so the elephant was euthanized to save him from more suffering. Autopsy The autopsy confirmed the diagnosis. The tusks were removed and handed over to security personnel for safe custody.

12. Autopsy of a Cow Elephant, Amaka Ranch, Taita Ranches Tsavo, 27th August 2015 Case History Reports of gun shots were received by KWS security team after which they combed the area by air and found an elephant carcass with tusks missing. They requested for veterinary autopsy to determine the cause of death. Autopsy Carcass condition was good, autolysis was moderate, tusks were missing with sharp object marks on the chopped off front face. Abdominal cavity was normal while the chest cavity had penetrating wound with hemorrhage of the chest cavity. Diagnosis: - Death was caused by hemorrhage from gunshot wound to the chest.

13. Rescue of an Elephant Calf, Mzima Pipleline, Tsavo East, 31st August 2015 This calf was successfully rescued from the pipeline waterhole and reunited with its family. No images available

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2015 Introduction The Tsavo Conservation Area remained busy for the veterinary unit with several cases attended to, including mainly elephants, but also other species such as lions and impala. Cases attended included treatment of 2 elephants with fresh arrow wounds in the Satao camp area, immobilization and euthanasia of an elephant bull with bullet wound injuries in Ndia Ndasa, de-snaring an impala and water buck, rescue of cheetah cubs and autopsy of a poached elephant at Kasigau ranch. Non-medical cases included a rescue of an elephant calf from a water dam, and immobilization and translocation of a problematic lioness in Amboseli

Treatment Of An Elephant With An Arrow Wound, Satao, Tsavo East National Park, 1st September 2015

History The elephant was seen by patrol aircraft near the Satao area with a fresh arrow wound to the left abdominal wall with blood oozing. The team rushed to the area to find the lone massive bull moving slowly through the bush. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised with 18 mgs of Etorphine in a dan-inject dart from a dan-inject dart gun from a vehicle. It took him 7 minutes to go down on lateral recumbency of the right side. There was a fresh arrow injury to the left abdominal wall with the arrow still protruding. The arrow head was pulled out and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine and Oxytetracycline spray was applied to disinfect the wound. Finally green clay was packed into wound to facilitate healing. An intravenous administration of 50 cc Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 200 cc of long acting Amoxicillin injected intramuscularly. Prognosis Good. Drug reversal was done by administration of Diprenorphine Hcl at three times the Etorphine dose. He stood up and walked away calmly.

Autopsy Of A Poached Elephant, Kasigau ranch, Tsavo east, 2nd September 2015

History A report was received from KWS security officers of an elephant carcass found by an aerial patrol near Kasigau/Maungu Ranch boundary with the tusks missing. They requested for autopsy to determine the cause of death. The autopsy is to allow for better prosecution in case offenders are arrested. General Examination The carcass age was assessed and found to be two days old and a male. The front of the face was chopped off and tusks missing. Early stage of autolysis was setting in and the carcass was swollen. Several penetrating wounds were observed to the right side of the chest and scapula area and one penetrating the hacked facial bone into the head. The carcass was opened and massive internal hemorrhage was observed. The puncture wounds affected the lungs, heart and the liver. No bullet head was recovered. Conclusion Internal hemorrhage from gunshot wound

Treatment Of An Elephant With An Arrow Injury, Ithumba, Tsavo East National Park, 5th September 2015

History The elephant was seen by the DSWT Ithumba de-snaring team with an injury and lameness while drinking water at the Ithumba watering hole. The vet team was airlifted by the DSWT aircraft for fast response. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised using 18mg Etorphine Hcl in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan-Inject dart rifle from a helicopter. The helicopter was used to keep the elephant from running into thick bush whilst the drugs took effect. The elephant went down in 12 minutes, lying on the injured side. Ropes were fastened to the front legs and he was rolled over using the vet vehicle. An old wound, probably from a snare, was seen on the left front limb. The arrow wound to the flank was cleaned using Hydrogen peroxide mixed with water then, doused with iodine and covered in green clay. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and long acting amoxicillin administered parenterally. Reversal Anaesthesia reversal was done by administration of Diprenorphine at three times the Etorphine dose intravenously through the ear vein. He struggled to wake up and was assisted by ropes hooked on the tusks and the land cruiser. He stood up chased the landcruiser shortly then ran into the bushes. Prognosis Good

Desnaring A Waterbuck, Park HQ, Tsavo east National Park, 7th September 2015

Immobilization, examination and treatment The waterbuck was immobilised using 5mg Etorphine Hcl and 40mg Xylazine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan-Inject dart rifle and went down in 5 minutes. The wire snare was cut loose and luckily it had not caused much damage to the tissues. The wounds were cleaned and long acting antibiotic administered. Reversal Anaesthesia was reversed by administration of Diprenorphine and Atipemazole Hcl intravenously through the jugular vein Prognosis Good

Desnaring two impala and treating a third impala, Park HQ, Tsavo East National Park, 7th September 2015

History Several antelopes were seen by KWS staff and tourists with wire snares around their necks and struggling to walk. The vet team visited the site and found one waterbuck and two Impalas with snares around their necks. Immobilization, examination and treatment Each impala was immobilised using 2mg Etorphine Hcl and 10mg Xylazine in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a DanInject dart rifle and went down in 5 minutes. For the two snared impalas the wire snare was cut loose and thankfully there was little damage to the surrounding tissues. The wounds were cleaned and long acting antibiotic administered.The third Impala was treated for hind limb weakness thought to have been caused by hypovitaminosis. Reversal Anaesthesia was reversed by administration of Diprenorphine and Atipemazole Hcl intravenously through the jugular vein. Prognosis Good

Translocation of a problematic lioness, Park HQ, Tsavo East National Park, 11th September 2015

History A lioness was spotted on the morning of 11th September near a Maasai manyatta by locals attending to a water pump. Because the resident vet was not available, Tsavo vet was airlifted to Amboseli to attend to the emergency as the local community threatened to kill the lioness. Immobilization and relocation The lioness was easily located and immobilized using 300 mgs Ketamine and 4 mgs Meditomidine. She took 17 minutes to go down and was then administered 100mgs Ketamine by hand injection. She was loaded onto a truck and translocated into the Park (Makindu area). Reversal She was offloaded while very light on anaesthesia and reversed using Atipemazole Hcl. A team kept watch for two more hours to protect her from other lions or buffalo attacks.

Euthansia of an elephant with bullet wounds, Ndia Ndasa, Tsavo East National Park, 15th September 2015

History Report was received from Ndia ndasa platoon based north of Tsavo east of an injured elephant bull that could hardly walk. A plane was sent down to Voi to pick the vet for fast response. After search the initial bull was spotted with two other bulls under a tree shade. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised using 18mg Etorphine Hcl in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan-Inject dart rifle from a helicopter. The helicopter was used to keep the other two bulls away whilst the injured bull succumbed to the drugs, which took 8 minutes. . The elephant went down in 12 minutes, lying on the injured side. The right hind limb was examined and a diagnosis of a complete fracture of the femur bone was made despite the massive swelling of the upper limb muscles. The complete femoral fracture gave it poor prognosis. Three penetrating bullet wounds were also observed to the limb. The elephant was euthanized due to poor prognosis and autopsy confirmed the complex and complete femoral fracture from gunshots. The tusks were retrieved and handed to the KWS security team.

Euthansia of a problematic lion, Ikanga, Tsavo East National park, 16th September 2015

History and Management A lion had left the Tsavo East National Park and started preying on community livestock near Ikanga airstrip. Vet Assistance was sought to immobilize and return it back to the park. The team searched for the lion but were unable to locate it. The following day the Problem Animal Control team (PSC) was called in as a lion had attacked two people and some goats. They had no choice but to put the lion down. It was brought to the vet clinic for examination on why it was attacking livestock. It was found to be a young male and in poor body condition. He may have been chased out of the pride before perfecting his hunting skills hence looked for easy prey.

Rescue of an elephant calf, Pipeline, Tsavo East National Park, 18th September 2015

Rescue The temporary water hole was created by leakages along the Mzima-Mombasa water pipeline and subsequently made deeper by elephants digging at the site. It provides water for elephants staying near the park headquarters during the dry season when most of the water holes are dry. Visitors to the area reported an elephant calf was struggling to climb over the walls. The vet team together with the Voi stockade team rushed to the location to find the calf stuck in the water hole and unable to scale the walls with the mother attempting to help. The herd was pushed away and the calf rescued and re united with his family to the great relief of everyone.

10. Rescue of three cheetah cubs, Pipeline, Tsavo East National Park, 18th September 2015 History and rescue The Cheetah cubs were stumbled upon by Wildlife Works Rukinga staff while putting out a fire caused by suspected poachers hunting for bush meat in the ranch adjacent to Tsavo East National Park. The fire burned hundreds of acres of the ranch. An effort to trace the mother for two days was futile. The three cubs were brought into the vet office and fed on formulated infant formula milk for two days and kept in a warm carton box before being airlifted to Nairobi orphanage for better care.

11. Treatment Of An Elephant With An Arrow Wound, Satao, Tsavo East National Park, 20th September 2015 History A report was received from Satao camp, Tsavo east, of an injured elephant cow seen at the water hole with family while drinking water. After a brief search the injured lame cow was spotted near Voi River foraging in a big herd. Drugs were prepared and additional vehicle called in to assist in separating the herd. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised using 16mg Etorphine Hcl in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan-Inject dart rifle from a vehicle. The Elephant was immobilized after 7 minutes and went down lying on the right flank exposing the wounded side on the upper side. The herd immediately formed a ring cordon around the immobilized elephant. Two vehicles were used to push the herd away but the matriarch fought back and at one point hit the vet unit vehicle damaging it and breaking one tusk in the process. Finally she moved away and the injured elephant was rolled over exposing a fresh arrow wound on the hind limb near the knee joint. A penetrating arrow was removed and wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of Iodine was sprayed on the wound and green clay applied. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl and long acting amoxicillin was given through the ear vein. Reversal Anaesthesia was reversed by administration of Diprenorphine at three times the Etorphine dose. Prognosis Good

12. Autopsy of a KWS tracker dog, Taita ranches, Tsavo East National Park, 29th September 2015 History and autopsy This tracker dog was used by security teams in Tsavo to track poachers in the vast ecosystem and frequently came for medical assistance in the case of illness. After treating another German shepherd dog with mild Hip dysplasia, another dog collapsed while on patrol and was rushed to the vet but arrived dead. Autopsy was carried out and massive hemorrhages were observed in the pericardium, most of the lung lobes and the diaphragm. Most of the other tissues appeared normal. From the history of long patrols on foot, high temperatures currently experienced in Tsavo, signs before death and autopsy diagnosis of heat stroke was made. Dogs heavily depend on panting for cooling and high environmental temperatures make it difficult to dissipate enough heat from the body.

13. Treatment of a lame elephant, Taita ranches, Tsavo, 29th September 2015 History A report was received from KWS Ranch Platoon North, of a lame elephant bull that was seen near Sagana dam while taking water. The team rushed to the area and after brief search the bull was spotted near the water dam. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised using 18mg Etorphine Hcl in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart using a Dan-Inject dart rifle from a vehicle. The elephant was immobilized after 8 minutes and went down on sternal recumbency and pushed to lateral recumbency. The left hind leg had no obvious injury despite the signs of lameness and a closer look revealed a deformity on the tarsal joint caused either by a sprain or ligament tear. An intravenous administration of Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein Reversal The anaesthesia was reversed by administration of Diprenorphine.

MARA MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2015

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2015 The month of July remained relatively calm with few cases requiring clinical intervention reported and attended to. Better parts of the month were characterized by poor to no precipitation with the signs of next cycle of rains in a couple of days being evident. Most animals especially elephants are abundantly seen within the reserve and conservancies, where there is plenty for them to feed on. Few wildebeests have crossed from Serengeti but more are expected to cross in the next month.

Removal of a Collar from a Cow Elephant, Mara Triangle Conservancy, 6th July 2015

Case History This female, named Maddy, was collared in 2012 and her collar was due for removal having expired. She was seen with a big group in the Mara Triangle in a relatively open area. Mara Elephant Project and Mara Triangle Management teams were on the ground monitoring her and called the Veterinary Unit to carry out immobilization and de-collar. Immobilization and de-collaring This elephant was in a big group in a relatively open area. She was restrained chemically by use of 16mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride delivered through a 3ml Dan-inject dart from a vehicle with drugs taking full effect after ten minutes. She assumed right lateral recumbence. After making sure she was stable, the collar was cut loose and removed. General body examination was conducted and nothing requiring attention was seen. She was prophylactic ally given 20,000mgs Oxytetracycline intramuscularly before the anesthetic was reversed. Reversal Reversal was achieved by administration of 48mgs Diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through the superficial ear vein. She woke up within four minutes to join the rest of the herd.

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Olkinyei Conservancy, 7th July 2015

Case History This massive bull collared a few months ago and christened Limo was seen with an injury by Olkinyei Conservancy rangers. For ease of tracking, Mara Elephant Project team were also informed and came immediately to help search for the elephant and assist in the entire process. This massive bull was seen close to a small thicket alone. Though still in good body condition, there was a wound on his upper right thigh and big abscess slightly ventral to the wound. A decision to immobilize him for further examination and treatment was then arrived at. Immobilization, examination and treatment This elephant was immobilized using 17mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3ml Dan- inject dart from a vehicle and the drugs took effect after ten minutes. After putting him in a comfortable posture, examination of the injury was conducted. This revealed an injury possibly caused by an arrow which had since fallen off. This left a deep wound which was infected with purulent stuff accumulating in a pocket ventral to the wound. Tissues around the wounded area were also necrotic. This wound could have been up to two weeks old. All the necrotic tissues were debrided with the help of Hydrogen Peroxide. The abscess was lanced on the ventral most point for ease of drainage. Further probing revealed that the wound communicated with the abscess. No foreign object was detected and the wound and abscess were copiously lavaged with water by through and through technique. The abscess was debrided with Hydrogen Peroxide and tincture of Iodine introduced to disinfect. Other treatments include parenteral administration of 30000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic and 4000mgs Flunixinmeglumine anti-inflammatory. Reversal Reversal was achieved by administration of 48mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride through the superficial ear vein. He woke up in four minutes without much struggle. Prognosis This elephant is expected to make full recovery.

Euthanasia of a Young Bull Elephant with Fracture, Sand River Maasai Mara National Reserve, 13th July 2015

Case History This injured young bull was seen by KWS and Mara National Reserve Rangers on patrol. They called the Veterinary Unit for assessment. The team found the bull alone and in a lot of pain. He could hardly move and could not use the affected limb. His right hind limb was swollen and he favoured it while attempting to move. He had begun to lose body condition. Immobilization, examination and management Immobilization was achieved by use of 12mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 1.5ml Dan-inject dart from a vehicle. The drugs took full effect in seven minutes with the elephant assuming right lateral recumbence posture. Detailed examination of the affected limb showed complete fracture of the distal tibia fibula bone. A large swelling with bloody exudate was evident at this point. The fracture could have occurred about three days prior to examination. After considering several factors including degree of injury and age of this elephant, euthanasia to end his suffering was advised and promptly affected. Tusks were recovered and taken by KWS security staff for accounting and custody.

Treatment of an Injured Cow Elephant, Sand River Maasai Mara National Reserve, 21st July 2015

Case History This elephant was seen with a group of about 20 elephants by the Cottarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Camp guides having descended from a hill which borders Serengeti. They reported she walked with difficulty and was obviously limping on her front left limb. Together with Mara Reserve rangers, they called the Veterinary Unit for examination and action. The Vet Unit found her in still in the company of about 20 elephants with several babies. She was limping on her left front limb which appeared swollen at the elbow. She could occasionally place weight on this limb. Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of 15mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml Dan-inject dart from foot due to poor terrain. Other members of the herd were scared away before darting. It took eight minutes for the drugs to take full effect and by then she had moved to a relatively open area. She fell on her left side and had to be flipped over using ropes and a vehicle for better view of the affected limb. Examination revealed a swollen elbow with no signs of dislocation or fracture. This could have been a sprain or strain of the joint. The teats were also active suggesting that she was nursing; a fact confirmed by the rangers and guides who saw her before with a 3year old calf. The calf was under the protection of the other herd members. She received 5,000mgs FlunixinMeglumine anti-inflammatory and 15,000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic, all parenterally. The joint was also massaged for 15 minutes to improve circulation. Reversal Reversal was achieved by administration of 42mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride through one of the superficial ear veins. She woke up after three minutes and followed the rest of the herd. Prognosis Favourable. Rangers were advised to monitor her progress and a repeat treatment scheduled to be carried out after three weeks.

Injured Lion

While treating this elephant a report of a big male lion with a suspected foot injury was reported within the same vicinity. This lion was found with his brother resting under a tree in good body condition. When agitated to move, they both stood and moved for a while round the tree before lying down. Nothing abnormal was detected as he moved without limping save for bruises on his face from territorial fights. Nothing warranting treatment was seen and both were left to enjoy their nap.

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2015 Introduction The period under review, like the past three months, had few cases requiring veterinary intervention. There was reduced precipitation and this coincided with the annual wildebeest migration from Serengeti to Masai Mara. Many of these animals are now spread all over Mara National Reserve and surrounding conservancies becoming a big attraction to tourists. Three of the cases handled during the month were as a result of spearing, a situation which had subsided for the past couple of months. The following are cases handled during the month;

Young Adult Elephant Bull with a Spear Injury, Hammerkop area Masai Mara National Reserve, 5th August 2015

Case History This young bull was seen by the county government security patrol team with a group of other elephants limping and with visible injury to his left front limb. They informed the veterinary unit for intervention. This bull was found alone, isolated from the rest of the herd under a tree in a small bush at the confluence of two luggas. He appeared nervous and limped away to a more dense area in between the two luggas when approached. The wound was visible on the lateral surface of his left carpus with slight suppuration. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of 17mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 3ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle. It took two vehicles, one on either side of the luggas, to guide this elephant to a relatively open area for darting. It took about ten minutes for the elephant to be fully anaesthetized falling on his left side. He had to be flipped over using ropes and a vehicle in order to access the wound. The wound was less than a week old with some degree of suppuration. This was as a result of spearing. Luckily; the injury was confined to soft tissues. The wound was cleaned with copious amounts of water and debrided with Hydrogen Peroxide. It was wiped dry with sterile gauze swabs before tincture of Iodine was applied to disinfect the area. Green clay was packed into the wound to absorb toxins and quicken healing. Additional treatments involved parenteral administration of 22500mgs of Amoxicillin anti biotic and 5000mgs FlunixinMeglumine anti-inflammatory. Reversal Reversal of the anesthetic was achieved by administration of 42mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride intravenously through a superficial ear vein. He rose in four minutes and walked away. Prognosis Good.

Desnaring a female Zebra, Olkiombo area Masai Mara National Reserve, 11th August 2015

Case History This zebra, among the migratory herd was seen and reported to us by the Mara Reserve warden based at Olkiombo airstrip. She had a strangulating wire which had created a wound round her neck. This had compromised her health as she appeared debilitated though she could be seen grazing. She was in a herd of other zebras. Immobilization, examination and treatment The zebra was chemically restrained by use of a combination of 5mgs Etorphine hydrochloride and 50mgs Azaperonetartarate delivered through a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle. The drugs took effect after eight minutes and she was blindfolded with eye ointment applied to both eyes. The snare which was a braided cable wire had eaten into the neck muscles but had not reached the cervical bones. The wire was released and resultant wound cleaned with copious amounts of water, debrided with Hydrogen Peroxide and disinfected with tincture of Iodine. Topical Oxytetracycline wound spray was then applied. Additional treatments involved intramuscular administration of 3000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic and 30mgs Dexamethasone Sodium anti-inflammatory. Reversal Reversal of the anesthetic was achieved by intravenous administration of 18mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride through the jugular vein. Prognosis Good because the wire had eaten into neck muscles but had not reached the cervical bones.

Treating a Speared Lioness, MajiyaFisi area Masai Mara National Reserve, 14th August 2015

Case History This lioness was seen with six other lions heading to a small thicket appearing to be returning from a hunt. She had an injury to her left front limb which looked fresh. The warden at Talek Gate called the Veterinary Unit to treat this lioness. The lioness was nervous when approached and was elusive throughout before being darted. She had a fresh open wound to her right shoulder and appeared to be older than most of the other pride members. She was the mother of most of the pride members. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilisation was achieved by use of a combination of 4mgs Medetomidine hydrochloride and 250mgs Ketamine hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle after half an hour of tracing the lioness. The drugs took full effect after ten minutes with the other pride members being scared away to give the team an opportunity to attend to her. A Blindfold was put in place and topical eye ointment put on both eyes to prevent corneal desiccation. Examination revealed a fresh wound less than 12hours old to her left shoulder. This wound was consistent with spearing and she could have been a victim of human wildlife conflict. The wound was cleaned with sterile water and surgical spirit before deep and subcutaneous sutures were put in place. Skin margins were shaved and a simple interrupted suture with vicryl material was used. Each layer of sutured tissue was infused with tincture of Iodine and cCoxacillin ointment to prevent infection. In addition, this lioness was given 3000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotics intramuscularly and 80mgs Ivermectin parasiticide subcutaneously. Reversal Reversal of the anesthetic was achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs Atepamezole Hydrochloride one and a half hours after immobilization. She woke up after seven minutes to join the rest of the pride members. Prognosis This lioness is expected to make full recovery.

Treating a Speared Bull Elephant, Naibosho Conservancy, 18th August 2015

Case History This massive bull was seen by Naboisho Conservancy Manager with two other bulls. He reported to the Veterinary Unit that he had a big wound on his right flank. The team found the bull near a small thicket feeding leisurely and still in the company of two other bulls. He was the biggest of the three with big tusks. He had a big relatively fresh wound to the upper side of his right flank. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of 17mgs Etorphine hydrochloride remotely delivered through a 3ml daninject dart from a vehicle. He moved for a while before the drugs took full effect after eight minutes, where he fell on his right side. It took the effort of two four wheel drive vehicles to turn him over in order to access the wounded area. The wound was relatively fresh, about four days old and caused by spearing. Some tissue was hanging from the wound which appeared to be from damaged muscle. The exposed necrotic part of this tissue was trimmed off leaving behind fresh areas. The wound was lavaged with plenty of water, debrided with Hydrogen Peroxide and rinsed with clean water. Tincture of Iodine was used to disinfect the wound before packing it with green clay. Additional treatments involved parenteral administration of 30000mgs of Amoxicillin antibiotic and 5000mgs FlunixinMeglumine anti-inflammatory. Reversal Reversal of the anesthetic was achieved by administration of 48mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride through a superficial ear vein. He woke up after four minutes and joined the other bulls. Prognosis Good

Treating Siena the Lioness for Fight Injuries, Musiara area Masai Mara National Reserve, 23rd August 2015

Case History Siena has had some nasty injuries before including a nearly fatal gore by a cape buffalo almost two years ago. Governors Lodge Manager called us after Siena was seen with fresh wounds. She was reported to have disappeared for four days before reappearing with these wounds. Both sides of her flanks had big wounds which appeared to have been from a fight with another lion. The already healed wound caused by buffalo gore on her right flank was ripped open. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 4mgs Medetomidine and 250mgs Ketamine delivered in a 3ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle. The drugs took full effect after eight minutes and a blindfold was put in place with Cloxacillin ointment put on both eyes. Apart from the wounds to her flanks, her left hind leg and tail had several bite wounds. She also looked significantly dehydrated and was rehydrated using Polyionic Ringerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lactate. The wound on her right flank was dry but required stitches. The wounds on the hind leg had a maggot infestation and the maggots were manually removed. All the wounds except the one on the right flank were debrided with Hydrogen Peroxide, rinsed with clean water and disinfected with tincture of Iodine. The dry wound to the right flank was irrigated with tincture of Iodine after the deeper areas were stitched. All the wounds were then packed with green clay and she was given parenteral administration of 3000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotics and 80mgs Ivermectin parasiticide. Reversal Reversal of the anesthetic was achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs Atepamezole Hydrochloride two hours after immobilization. She woke up ten minutes after reversal. Prognosis Guarded

Treating an Injured Leopard

This male leopard is a resident at Mara Serena crossing and was seen with an injury to his left hind leg possibly from a fight with baboons. Several attempts to locate and assess him for possible treatment were unsuccessful as he could not appear in the open. No images available

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2015 Introduction Little rainfall was recorded in the conservation area during the period compared with the previous month. Migratory wildebeest are still around and have significantly reduced pasture that was abundantly available in the recent past. Incidents of human wildlife conflict cases are still being recorded with a nursing elephant cow being speared and an eland bull having a lodged arrow being attended to among other cases.

Elephant cow with spear wound, Ndonyo Rinka, 8th September 2015

History This elephant in a herd of five others was seen by KWS and Mara elephant project rangers on patrol in the morning of this date with freshly inflicted spear wound on her right shoulder. The wound was still bleeding. They called the mobile veterinary unit for intervention.

General examination This elephant was in a small herd with some calves in a small thicket. She was the matriarch and though injured was very protective of the family. Her left shoulder had a fresh spear wound which was still bleeding. Immobilization, examination and treatment She was chemically restrained by use of 16mgs etorphine in a 3ml Dan inject dart through Dan inject darting system. Darting was done from a vehicle after briefly pushing the family out of the thicket. She appeared agitated initially but finally calmed as the drugs took effect. She got fully narcotized after ten minutes assuming left lateral recumbency. The rest of the family members were scared away by use of vehicles to allow the team access the injured female. Close examination revealed a deep freshly inflicted spear wound less than twelve hours old. The wound was about eight inches deep with ventro- medial course. It had sharp edges with approximately four inches diameter obviously caused by spear. The wound was copiously lavaged with clean water and wiped with sterile swabs. Tincture of iodine was then introduced before green clay being packed for toxin absorption and prevention of sepsis. Oxytetracycline spray was also applied topically. Additional treatments involved intramuscular administration of 22500mgs amoxicillin antibiotics prophylactically to prevent sepsis. Prognosis Good.

Treating An Adult Eland With An Arrow Wound, Mara North Conservancy, 9th September 2015

History This big bull in company of another male was spotted by Masai Mara Reserve and Mara North Conservancy rangers on their regular patrols with an arrow lodged on the left side of his neck. They called the mobile vet unit for help. General examination We found him in company of another male close to a small bush. The shaft of the arrow was protruding on the left side of his neck and he appeared to be in pain with the area moderately swollen. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by administration of a combination of 10mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 60mgs azaperone tartarate delivered through a 3ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done from a vehicle. Complete anaesthesia was achieved nine minutes after darting with the eland falling on his left side crushing the arrow shaft and pushing the arrow further deep. After putting in place a blindfold, and eye ointment to both eyes, this eland was flipped offer for easier examination of the injury and retrieval of the arrow. The arrow head could not be easily retrieved as it was barbed while the remainder of the shaft was already loose and was easily pulled out leaving the arrow head. The arrow appeared to tent the skin on the opposite side of the neck and after confirming indeed it was it, a small opening was created and the arrow worked out through the opening. The resultant wound which was about three days old was cleaned with hydrogen peroxide, rinsed copiously with water and disinfected with tincture of iodine. Cloxacillin eye ointment was also infused into the wound. Additional treatments include parenteral administration of 6000mgs amoxicillin antibiotics and 30mgs dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory. Reversal This was achieved by intravenous administration of 30mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride delivered through the jugular vein. He woke up after seven minutes and joined his mate. Prognosis The arrow was not poisoned and did not damage vital organs hence this eland is expected to make full recovery.

Re-Treatment Of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sienaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Female Lioness, Musiara area (Mara National Reserve), 10th September 2015

History Sienna had been treated for wounds sustained from territorial fights with other lions three weeks ago. This was the third time Sienna was being treated for nasty wounds in a period of two years. Follow up treatment was therefore necessary in order to increase her chances of quick and complete recovery. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 4mgs medetomidine hydrochloride and 200mgs ketamine in a 3ml Dan inject dart.Darting was done from a vehicle. After ten minutes, she appeared to be fully anaesthetized but rose up on approach. She appeared to quickly metabolise the drugs possibly because of frequency of immobilization. A top up dart of 2mgs medetomidine and 100mgs ketamine was prepared and successfully delivered after approaching on foot as she was partially drugged. She was fully anaesthetized after four minutes and after moving her to a more comfortable place, examination and treatment commenced. All the wounds were clean and free of maggots. The wounds on the hindquarters had fully healed. The ones on the flanks were on their way to heal. The wounds were disinfected with tincture of iodine and cloxacillin antibiotic ointment applied. Green clay was then applied to quicken healing. Additional treatments included parenteral administration of 3000mgs amoxicillin trihydrate antibiotics and 80mgs ivermectin parasiticide. Reversal Achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs atepamezole hydrochloride 45minutes after the last medetomidine/ketamine dose administration. She was fully awake by seven minutes and walked away without difficulty. Prognosis With the current condition, Sienna is expected to pull through and prognosis reviewed from guarded to good.

Re-collaring of an elephant bull, Mara North Conservancy, 11th September 2015

History This big bull christened Hugo was collared more than two years ago and his collar was due for replacement before totally failing to transmit signal. KWS in collaboration with Save the Elephant and Mara Elephant Project together carried out this collar replacement exercise. Immobilization and collar replacement Hugo was found in an open area within Mara North Conservancy in company of another two big bulls. He appeared calm and hardly perturbed by our presence. Immobilization was achieved by use of 17mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 3ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done from a vehicle. It took eight minutes for this massive bull to be fully narcotized upon where he assumed sternal recumbency. He was then pushed to lie on his left lateral position for comfort and ease of breathing. Due to prevailing hot conditions, a lot of water was used to douse him in order to keep his body temperature within normal limits. The old collar was then removed and new one deployed after its soundness being confirmed. This was a SAT/GSM collar that will transmit for the next three years giving details of Hugoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movement and position for monitoring purposes. This was also an opportunity to examine a wound on Hugo that was treated two months ago which had completely healed. The procedure went on without any incident. Reversal Achieved by administration of 48mgs of diprenorphine intravenously through superficial ear vein. Hugo got up after seven minutes to join the rest of the bulls.

Male zebra with an arrow wound, Masai Mara University, 16th September 2015

History This lone zebra who for some time had become part of Masai Mara University community was reported by the University management to be having an arrow on the right side of his neck. They requested our services to help remove the arrow and treat this zebra. General observation This zebra was alone within the university farm, in pain and hardly feeding. An arrow head could be seen sticking out on the right side of his neck. Immobilization, examination and treatment He was immobilized by use of a combination of 5mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 50mgs azaperone tartarate in a 1.5ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done by foot. It took eight minutes for the drugs to take full effect. Examination revealed an arrow head stuck on the right side of his neck. It appeared to have been there for approximately two days and the wound was relatively fresh. The arrow was removed and the wound cleaned with copious amount of water, debrided with reconstituted hydrogen peroxide and disinfected wit tincture of iodine. Additional treatment included parenteral administration of 3000mgs amoxicillin trihydrate antibiotic, 20mgs dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory and 80mgs ivermectin parasiticide. Because this zebra was lonely and his security not guaranteed, it was decided he be relocated to a secure place where other zebras were. He was taken some 30km where he was revived to join a group of other zebras. Reversal Achieved by administration of 18mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through the jugular vein. Prognosis Good

Injured young male lion, Masai Mara National Reserve, 20th September

History This injured young male was seen and reported to us by tourists visiting the reserve. They saw him with an injury on his tail and requested our services to save this lion. General observation On arrival, this lion was lying under a small shrub in company of another male. Proximal part of his tail was injured with an open wound partly exposing wings of coccygeal vertebrae. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by administration of a combination of 3mgs medetomidine and 200mgs ketamine in a 3ml Dan inject dart.Darting was done from a vehicle. An additional 1mg medetomidine and 50mgs ketamine was given as top up before treatment commenced. It took ten minutes for this lion to be fully anaethethized.Eye ointment was then applied to both eyes before blindfold being put in place. Examination revealed severe wound on the base of his tail likely caused by territorial fights with other lions. The wound was becoming septic with part of coccygeal vertebrae being exposed. The wound was thoroughly cleaned with the help of hydrogen peroxide and clean water. It was then wiped dry with gauze swabs and disinfected with tincture of iodine. Finally oxytetracycline wound spray and a coat of green clay was applied. Additional treatments included intramuscular administration of 3000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 16mgs dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory. To take care of internal and external parasites, he received subcutaneous injection of 70mgs ivermectin parasiticide. Reversal Achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs atepamezole hydrochloride one hour after immobilization. He got up within ten minutes of administration and walked to join his colleague. Prognosis Favourable. Rangers were advised to monitor this lion and report progress. Review and repeat treatment will be done after two weeks. On a worst case scenario, tail amputation may be required.

No images available

An injured male elephant, Olarro conservancy, 23rd September 2015

History This young bull was seen by Olarro conservancy management lagging behind the rest of the herd and seemingly limping. They called the mobile veterinary unit for assessment and treatment. General examination and case management. On examination, this elephant was alone and feeding. He appeared to drag his right hind limb while moving without any visible injury. The problem appeared to emanate from the hip joint with possible slight dislocation or sprain. After careful consideration, it was decided that immobilizing this elephant could cause more harm by aggravating the injury on falling. Since he could move and feed, close monitoring was advised and the problem is expected to resolve with time.

Young female giraffe with snare, Olkurruk/Kawaii, 26th September 2015

History This giraffe thought to be harboring a snare on her right hind leg was seen by community scouts around Kawaii area. Together with Mara Triangle Conservancy rangers, they called the veterinary unit for action.

General observation This giraffe in a herd of about twenty others was limping on her right hindlimb. The fetlock joint appeared swollen with a wound round it. No snare could visibly be seen but thought to be buried under the flesh. Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of a combination of 8mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 50mgs azaperone tartarate in a 1.5ml Dan inject dart.Darting was done from a vehicle. The drugs took full effect after eight minutes with the giraffe assuming left lateral recumbency. Examination revealed an old snare wound. The snare had since fallen. The wound was cleaned with copious amount of water, debrided with hydrogen peroxide then rinsed with clean water and wiped dry with sterile gauze. Tincture of iodine was used for disinfection. Additional treatments included, parenteral administration of 4500mgs amoxicillin trihydrate antibiotics and 1000mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory. Reversal Achieved by administration of 24mgs diprenorphine intravenously through the jugular vein. She rose immediately to join the rest of the herd. Prognosis Good

Examining two adult cheetahs for reported illness, Hammer kop area, 28th September 2015

History These two cheetahs said to be brothers were seen by visiting tourists and Mara â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Meru cheetah project teams. They had swollen cheeks and appeared lethargic. They called our mobile veterinary team and the Reserve management for help. They were said to have been in good condition three days before intervention. General observation Both cheetahs were seen resting by a Lugga in a small bush. One appeared seriously affected with obvious dyspnea while the other one had mild swelling of both cheeks. They were seen to occasionally sneeze and cough with thick mucoid discharge from the nostrils. The more seriously affected cheetah showed more of abdominal breathing suggestive of lung and pleural congestion. Case management Clinical signs were consistent with those of cat flu which is a viral infection with varied outcomes. Due to the already compromised respiratory functions of these cheetahs, immobilization was considered too risky for them. Administration of drugs was therefore achieved by remote delivery using 3ml Dan inject darts. Each of the cheetahs received 300mgs clindamycin phosphate antibiotic. They will closely be monitored and their response reported for follow up treatment.

MERU MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2015

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2015 Introduction An outbreak of anthrax in wildlife in Lake Nakuru national park which caused a threat to populations of endangered species such as rhino and Rothschild giraffe was controlled through vaccination, proper carcass disposal and disinfection. In Samburu national reserve a Grevys zebra was treated for injuries sustained in a predator attack. Other cases are described in the following report.

Treatment on an Injured Male Grevyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zebra, Samburu National Reserve, 11th July 2015

Case History Rangers from Samburu national reserve (SNR) reported a Grevys zebra which had sustained injuries during a lion attack. This zebra showed severe lameness of the right hind leg. When the team visited the reserve the zebra was at the Oryx airstrip which provided an ideal ground for darting and treatment of wounds. Immobilization, examination and treatment A combination of 7mg M99 and 80mg XylazineHcl delivered in a 1.5 cc dart was used for immobilization. The first dart failed to discharge but the zebra went down 12 minutes after the second dart which was injected in the gluteal muscles. A blind fold was fitted and the zebra positioned on lateral recumbency for examination. There were penetrating bite wounds to the dorsal muscles at the sacrum, a circular degloving wound at the right stifle area with loss of skin and penetrating bite wounds into the stifle joint causing severe lameness. All these wounds were contaminated. The wounds were cleaned using water and Povidone Iodine and debrided using dilute Hydrogen Peroxide. A long acting antibiotic and the analgesic, Flunixinmeglumine, were also administered. Prognosis Prognosis for recovery is guarded due to risk of stifle joint infection.

Post Mortem Examination of a Male White Rhino, Meru National Park, 12th July 2015

Case History This white rhino was found dead by rangers on patrol. It had no recent history of illness. A post mortem examination was conducted on site to determine the cause of death. General examination Observation of the carcass showed that this rhino though old was in good body condition, however, there was blood oozing from the left nostril. On opening this carcass there was evidence of a heavy infestation of round worms and tape worms. No other significant findings were recorded. Tissue samples were collected for RHODIS rhino database while both horns were retrieved and kept in custody by the area company commander. Conclusion The immediate cause of death could not be determined conclusively but it was attributed to natural illness.

Anthrax in Wildlife in Lake Nakuru National Park, 17th-24th July 2015

The veterinarian in charge of Meru MVU was invited to provide technical support in control of an anthrax epidemic in Lake Nakuru national park (LNNP) on 17th – 24th July 2015. Laboratory results had confirmed by microscopy Bacillus anthracis, the causative bacteria for anthrax in stained blood smear samples from carcasses of four buffalo and two rhino. Dozens of buffalo were suspected to have died of the disease which was a serious concern because this contaminates soil and pasture and could spread the disease to other endangered species in the park. Other species affected in this outbreak were Impala, Rothschild giraffe and eland. However, this disease which can be transmitted from animals to human beings by contact, ingestion or inhalation of anthrax bacteria spores is a low risk for visitors in the park because many buffalos had died far from access roads frequented by visitors. Anthrax spores can remain inactive in the soil for several years but will proliferate in contaminated pasture when suitable factors such as flooding followed by prolonged dry conditions are present. The following control measures were taken to reduce bacterial load in the environment and to reduce risk of future outbreaks of the disease:   

Proper carcass disposal by incineration and burying Disinfection of carcass sites using 10% Formaldehyde and Calcium bicarbonate Vaccination of rhino and Rothschild giraffe which are endangered species to prevent disease in this species

Efforts to clean up the environment are in progress whereas the disease is now under control with a lower mortality rate recorded in the past one week. No images available

Injured Male Common Zebra, Meru National Park, 22nd July 2015

Case History This injured zebra was seen during a routine patrol in Meru national park. It suffered a degloving wound on its left hind quarters suspected to have been caused in a lion attack. This herd of zebra was very shy and attempts to dart it for treatment were unsuccessful due to long flight distance.

Treatment of an Injured Bull Elephant, Mpala Ranch Laikipia, 26th July 2015

Case History Game scouts from Mpala ranch and the Samburu Trust reported that this bull had suffered severe leg carrying lameness for 7 days. The team visited the ranch to examine and treat this elephant. Assessment This elephant was found on the south eastern border of Mpala ranch after a brief search. A quick observation showed severe lameness of its left hind leg. It was obviously in great pain and could hobble around on three legs. A dislocation on its left pelvic joint was suspected as the cause of lameness. The team recommended close monitoring of this elephant. Prognosis When the team visited the ranch on the 30th July for a review, this elephant had shown great improvement and could now step on the injured leg. Again no treatment was attempted because immobilization would have exacerbated its injuries. This elephant is on a slow path to recovery. No images available 6.

Treatment of a Tracker Dog (Name: Sniper, Dutch Shepherd), Meru National Park, 27th July 2015

Case History This tracker dog in Meru national park was reported to have shown mild lameness after a routine exercise on 27/7/2015. An examination of its right hind paw showed a puncture wound caused by a foreign body. Treatment For treatment the wounds were cleaned with water and Povidone Iodine to prevent infection. Daily treatment for 3 days was recommended.

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2015 Introduction Northern Kenya remained dry and windy in the month under review causing severe stress to wildlife due to scarce water and pasture resources. In Mpala ranch an elephant bull suffered debilitating gunshot wounds to its leg caused by suspected poachers. In the Milgis an elephant was treated for chronic emaciation. Other cases attended are described below.

Re-treatment and Euthanasia of a Bull Elephant with a Bullet Wound, Mpala Ranch Laikipia 7th August 2015

Case History This was a review of an elephant showing severe lameness in Mpala ranch. It was first observed on 26th July 2015. Wildlife rangers from Mpala ranch reported that there had been no significant improvement after two weeks monitoring. The Veterinary Team decided to immobilize the elephant to examine the cause of lameness. Immobilization and management Immobilization was achieved using 20mg Etorphine in a single 3cc Dan-inject dart from a vehicle with the dart placed at the gluteal muscles. The elephant went down in 8 minutes lying on right lateral recumbency. Examination showed a penetrating wound to the left hind leg thought to have been caused by a bullet. The entry point was identified at the caudal part of the leg with suspected fracture of the tibia bone. Bone fractures caused by bullets in elephants have a poor prognosis due to the massive weight which makes it difficult to fix the bone. In this case a high dose of injectable antibiotic Betamox with a corticosteroid Dexamethasone was administered. The team recommended further observation of this elephant. On 20th August, the team reviewed this case again after reports that its health had deteriorated due to septicemia. This elephant also had difficulty accessing adequate nutritious feed and water leading to a loss of body condition. Considering the welfare and quality of life of this elephant, euthanasia was the only option. Both tusks were retrieved and kept under custody of the area senior warden. A bullet wound penetrating into the left hind leg with suspected fracture of tibia was identified as the cause of lameness

Treatment of an Injured Bull Elephant, Fairmont Lodge, Mount Kenya National park, 7th August 2015

The Kenya wildlife service rangers reported on 5th August that this elephant had shown severe lameness of its right leg, however, it was difficult to determine the cause due to a thick forest in the area. They requested for veterinary assistance to examine the cause of lameness. On 6th July the team visited the park following reports that the elephant had been seen that morning. However, the team was unable to access this area following heavy afternoon rains in Mt. Kenya. The team spent the night in Nanyuki and set off to Mawinguairstip the elephant was found near the airstrip. A brief examination showed that this elephant was in good body condition and lameness was attributed to a deformity of the right hind limb which may have occurred earlier in its life and had healed. No treatment was required in this case. No images available 3.

Treatment of a Sick Bull Elephant, Ndotto Mountains, Samburu North, 9th August 2015

Case History Rangers from the Milgis Trust reported that this elephant had suffered poor body condition. It was confined for two weeks to an area in Ndoto mountain range along the Lengobapere lugga where it could access feed and water. They requested for an assessment to determine the cause of illness and treat this sick elephant. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved using 20mg Etorphine in a single 3cc Dan-inject dart from foot with the dart placed into the gluteal muscles. The elephant went down in 12 minutes with the elephant lying on sternal recumbence. He was tipped to right lateral recumbence to enable examination. Physical examination showed that this elephant was emaciated; however, no external injury was seen despite reports of lameness by scouts. Emaciation was suspected to have been caused by an internal disease process. For treatment the team administered antibiotics to treat bacterial infection and multivitamin injection. Prognosis Prognosis for this case remains guarded because this is an old elephant. The scouts were asked to monitor this elephant and report on this case.

Male Injured Lion, Elsaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kopje, Meru National Park, 19th August 2015

Case History Tour guides from Elsas Kopje lodge reported that this lion had shown lameness and had a swollen left forelimb. They requested veterinary examination to determine the cause of lameness. The lion was found in a pride of six consisting of five females and one male. A quick observation showed that lameness was caused by mild dislocation of the carpal joint which may have been sustained during hunting. This pride was reported to have had giraffe kill the previous day. No treatment was required and the guides were asked to monitor this pride and report.

Training On Large Carnivore Census In Meru National Park

This training aimed at equipping participants on field techniques for quantifying and monitoring trends and distribution of large carnivores in Meru national park. Participants were drawn from the KWS and Born Free foundation whereas facilitators included scientists from KWS. Training took place between 19th and 23rd August 2015. Carnivore censuses are particularly difficult to conduct because some carnivore species are nocturnal while other species are cryptic. Data collection methods involved direct sighting and indirect methods such as spoor identification. Methods for data geo-referencing, mapping and analysis were discussed. The actual census will take place in September 2015.

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2015 Introduction Drought continues to ravage northern Kenya. Scarce pasture and water resources has driven huge herds of livestock into conservation areas especially non protected areas causing overgrazing and increased incidences of human wildlife conflict. In Samburu we attended to injured elephants in Westgate, Meibae and Namunyak conservancies. An attempt to rescue an elephant which fell into a water channel in Mutara conservancy, Laikipia was unsuccessful. In Lewa conservancy a hand raised black rhino calf was treated for severe enteritis and in Loisaba conservancy we attended to a lioness which suffered traumatic injuries on its hind legs. A baby giraffe was also rescued and taken to the DSWT Nairobi Nursery.

Post mortem examination on a grevy zebra carcass, Laisamis, 1st September 2015

History This Grevyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s zebra was reported to have been recumbent for at least 24 hours and showed paralysis of the hind limbs with no apparent injuries. Scouts from the Grevysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Zebra Trust in Laisamis requested for treatment of this animal which had not shown signs of illness prior to its recumbency. We visited this area on 1st September and found that the zebra had died earlier that day. A post mortem examination of the carcass was conducted to determine the cause of death. Post mortem findings Carcass was found to have been in good body condition (body score 3 on a scale of 1-5). Inspection of the carcass did not show external injuries. Blood oozed from the nostrils and mouth due to self-inflicted traumatic injuries on its head as it struggled to stand up. Ischemic necrosis and fracture affecting the femoral head and muscles of the right hind limb was observed Conclusion The immediate cause of death in this zebra was complications arising from prolonged recumbency for instance compromise of the circulatory system. Traumatic injuries for example accidental fall was suspected to have caused recumbency. Images unavailable for this case

Giraffe calf rescue, Bisinadi, eastern boundary of Meru national park, 12th September 2015

This abandoned giraffe calf was rescued in Bisinadi area along the eastern boundary on 12th September 2015. KWS rangers on patrol reported that a search for its mother was not successful and was assumed to have been displaced by herds of livestock which invaded the Bisinadi reserve. Drought in many parts of northern Kenya has driven huge herds of livestock in search of pasture and water into areas along boundaries of conservation areas which displace wildlife. The giraffe calf was relocated to the orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi where it will be raised and later released into the wild.

Treatment of an injured elephant, West gate conservancy, Samburu, 23rd September 2015

History West gate conservancy rangers reported that an elephant had shown severe lameness for the previous two days with limited movement. They requested for an examination and treatment of this elephant. Chemical immobilization and clinical findings Immobilization was achieved using M99速 14mg in a single 3cc Daninject dart. Darting was done by foot, after stalking this elephant, with the dart placed at the gluteal muscles. Down time was 8 minutes with the elephant lying on right lateral recumbency. Examination showed lameness and swelling affecting distal part of right hind limb. There were no obvious wound but trauma was suspected as the cause of lameness. Treatment and prognosis 1% Dexamethasone sodium 50 milliliter intramuscular injection Betamox速 LA 200 milliliter administered intramuscularly to cover for secondary bacterial infection This elephant was revived using Diprenophine hydrochloride given by intravenous route on superficial ear veins. We are hopeful that this elephant will make a full recovery over the next few weeks.

Treatment of an injured elephant, Meibae, Samburu, 25th September 2015

History Meibae conservancy rangers reported on 25th September that this elephant had shown severe lameness for two weeks. It was not possible to attend to it earlier because she had retreated to a dense bush in the conservancy which was inaccessible. When she was found the Meru veterinary unit was mobilized to examine and treat this injured elephant. Chemical immobilization and clinical findings Immobilization was achieved using M99速 14mg in a single 3cc Daninject dart. Darting was done by foot, after stalking this elephant, with the dart placed at the gluteal muscles. Down time was 4 minutes. This elephant was tipped to right lateral recumbency for examination. Examination showed a penetrating wound through the ear pinna and the muscles of the left arm proximal to the elbow joint. These wounds were severely infected. Probing with a forceps showed that the wounds was caused by a high velocity projectile and was approximately 15cm deep. Treatment and outcome Wound lavaged with dilute hydrogen peroxide and povidone iodine. Antibiotics and corticosteroids were administered to treat bacterial infection. After the treatment it was revived using Diprenophine hydrochloride given by intravenous route on superficial ear veins. This animal was in poor body condition and could not stand up even after assistance. She died a few minutes later from massive septicemia. A post mortem examination showed a hair line fracture of the humerus and necrosis of muscles of the arm. A bullet head was retrieved.

Elephant calf in Kitich camp, 26th September 2015

Namunyak conservancy reported that a 2 year old elephant calf was injured and required veterinary attention at Kitich camp. When we visited this camp on 26th September to do an evaluation we found this calf in a thick bush adjacent the camp where it had been foraging. There was no elephant herds nearby although herds frequently visited this area and it was assumed that the calf would be integrated into visiting herds. A quick observation showed that this calf was in good body condition. A swelling reported at the inguinal area was evaluated to be of no clinical significance. Wildlife scouts in the camp were tasked with monitoring and reporting if further veterinary assistance was required. Images unavailable for this case

Rescue of an elephant, Mutara conservancy, Laikipia, 28th September 2015

This elephant bull was reported to have fallen into a deep water channel in Mutara ranch and got stuck on 27th September. We were called to assist in the rescue efforts after an unsuccessful overnight attempt by ranch management to pull out the elephant. The elephant was roped on its legs and tusks and pulled out with using a farm tractor. After two and half hours this elephant was pulled out from the channel. Unfortunately, this elephant was unable to stand up due to exhaustion and myopathy as a result of prolonged recumbency. Area residents reported that the elephant was trapped for more than 30 hours before it was pulled out. Sadly this animal had to be euthanized 12 hours after it was pulled out considering its welfare and poor prognosis.

Treatment of an injured lioness, Loisaba conservancy, Laikipia, 29th September 2015

History This lioness was reported to have shown severe lameness and wounds on its right hind leg for the past two weeks. She was emaciated due to inability to hunt and the ranch had sustained it by feeding. Conservancy management requested veterinary attention to determine the cause of lameness. Chemical immobilization and examination We used a combination of ketamine hydrochloride 300mg and 4% medetomidine hydrochloride 12mg in a 3cc DanInject dart for immobilization. Down time was 5 minutes. A blind fold was used was applied before examination. General observation showed poor body condition (body score 1 on a scale of 1-5). There were infected wounds on the lateral aspect of right hind leg and medial aspect of the left hind leg. Right hip joint subluxation was also observed. These injuries are thought to have been sustained in a buffalo attack. Management Due to the extent of injuries and poor prognosis on hip joint subluxation, this lioness was euthanized by intravenous injection of 20% pentobarbitone sodium.

Enteritis in a black rhino calf, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LWC), 29th September 2015

History A black rhino calf hand raised in LWC was reported to have suffered profuse watery diarrhea on the night of 28th September. LWC requested for veterinary evaluation on 29th September. In the preceding three weeks coliform enteritis had been diagnosed and managed using aggressive antibiotic therapy. Clinical examination and management Body temperature was 36.2째C which was sub normal. Profuse watery diarrhea with tenesmus, a stiff gait and dehydration was noted. Acute bacterial enteritis was diagnosed. We recommended treatment with parenteral Gentamicin and Flunixin meglumine for three days. Oral rehydration was also recommended. Handlers reported that this rhino showed improvement through that day and was able to feed and water. However, its condition worsened in the evening and rhino was reported comatose at 10pm and later died. Post mortem findings A post mortem examination was conducted on 30th September. In the abdominal cavity congestion and hyperemia of mesentery was observed. Mucopurulent inflammation of mucosa of small intestines and colon was noted. In the trachea and bronchi foam exudates was found. Tissue samples of the small intestines, stomach and colon were collected and preserved in formalin for histopathology. Samples of stomach contents was also collected and kept at 4째C for toxicology. Conclusion Diagnosis: Enterocolitis. Common causes of enterocolitis include Clostridium perfringens and Escherichia coli. Cause of death is hypovolemic shock due diarrhea induced dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Lesions observed in the heart, bronchi and trachea was caused by septicemia.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2015

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2015 Introduction This month the Southern Conservation Area showed a marked decrease in the number of cases reported. This could be attributed to the increased surveillance within the area. During the month a combined team of Kenyan and Tanzania rangers performed a joint operation (cross border) to ensure reduction of poaching cases. The Veterinary Team also carried out the routine monthly aerial recce within the park and surrounding ecosystem. Together with the Research Office, the team also embarked on identification of various sites within the EmaliLoitoktok highway for placement of wildlife corridor paths. This is aimed at reduction of road accidents involving wildlife along the 200km stretch. Ten sites were recommended and placement of the road signs is ongoing.

Mortality Investigation in Zebra, Kimana Amboseli, 4th July 2015

Case History Within the month the veterinary team attended a suspected poisoning mortality case. The 2 mortality cases had occurred within a period of 1 week and showed signs of heavy hemorrhage which is an indication of poisoning. The animals were in good body condition (4 on a scale of 5) prior to death. The carcasses were recovered adjacent to a farm within the community land. Samples A water sample was collected from the drinking point. Kidney, liver and intestinalsamples were collected and delivered to the laboratory for further analysis.

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with Bullet Wounds, Ithumba, 17th July 2015

Case History The DSWT pilot reported to have spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow head injury to the right limb. The veterinary team had to locate and assess the elephant from the helicopter since the vegetation was thick. Plans were made on how to immobilize and treat the elephant. The elephant was in a thick bush thicket but relatively easy to dart using the helicopter. The elephant was pushed to relatively open ground for darting. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized with 18mg EtorphineHcl in a 3 ml dan - inject dart relatively easy from a helicopter despite the thick vegetation. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 5 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had penetrating wounds to both fore limbs and thoracic region. The wounds were septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound is likely to have been caused by a bullet and not an arrow as reported. The dead tissue was debrided and the wounds thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine before topical antibiotic cream and green clay were applied to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox, 1200 mg Clindamycin (Dalacin C) and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 45 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. However, the elephant did not get up as expected even after 30 minutes of waiting. An additional dose of 5ml Naltrexone was administered intravenously after 30 minutes. The elephant finally got up 20 minutes after administering naltrexone. Prognosis Good

Euthanasia of a Female Giraffe Injured By a Vehicle, Isinet Chyulu Ecosystem, 10th July 2015

Case History A female giraffe was reported to have been hit by a car on the Emali-Loitokitok highway in the early morning hours. The KWS Loitokitok station reported to the veterinary team who attended to the case immediately for examination and treatment. Immobilization, examination and management The giraffe was recumbent and immobile on arrival at the scene. Immobilization was therefore not necessary for examination and assessment. On physical examination the giraffe had suffered from a spinal injury (fracture) and a decision to euthanize the giraffe was made since the prognosis was poor. No clinical intervention could be done. The carcass was well disposed and the relevant authorities informed.

4. Rescue of a Male Elephant Calf Ithumba, Kitirua Amboseli Ecosystem, 18-19th July 2015 Case History The Cross-Border patrol team (Kenya/Tanzania-rangers) spotted an elephant calf 2.5 to 3 years old on its own. On further investigation, the calf was reported to have been abandoned by the mother after getting stuck in a water hole but apparently freed himself after sometime. The calf was in good condition and health. The case was reported to the Veterinary Team who visited the site for decision making and action. A decision was made to rescue the calf but this could not be done until the following day due to the time required for making necessary arrangements for the rescue. Tracking and Assessment In the early hours of the following morning the team attended to the case. It took 5 hours of tracking the baby calf before he was finally spotted. On close observation a herd of elephants was spotted within the area. The calf joined the herd of elephants and since he could manage to feed by himself, the team decided to hold on the rescue operation and leave the calf in the wild under the protection of the herd hoping that the mother was in the herd. Monitoring of the calf will continue to ensure safety and survival of the calf.

5. Retreatment of a Bull Elephant with a Spear Injury, Kiboko Chyulu Ecosystem, 20th July 2015 Case History This elephant had been treated earlier for a serious right forelimb spear injury. Due to the severity of the wound a repeat treatment was necessary on this elephant. The Kiboko Rangers were sensitized and hence began an intensive search for the elephant when the time came. After several days of a thorough search, the elephant was spotted and the Veterinary Team immediately notified. Plans were made to airlift the vet and a ranger via a helicopter to the site where after examination, a decision was made to immobilize and treat the elephant. Darting was relatively easy from the DSWT helicopter though the terrain was rough and bushy. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart using the Dan-inject system from the helicopter. Full immobilization took place after 5 minutes and he fell in a dog sitting position. The rangers helped flip the elephant to right lateral recumbency for easy access to the wound and safety of the elephant. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Plenty of water was doused on the ears and the entire body to help cool the elephant during the operation. On examination, the wound was on its way to recovery and the condition had greatly improved. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine before topical antibiotic cream, spray and green clay were then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Amoxcycillin L.A and 100 ml Flunixinemeglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 54mg Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. The elephant took about 4 minutes to be fully awake from the anesthesia and walk away from the site. Prognosis Prognosis is good.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2015 Introduction The team was welcomed back from a short break by a series of cases spanning the entire Tsavo Conservation Area (TCA). The majority of the species treated was the African elephant with injuries on various parts of the body. In all instances, the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response was instant thanks to the ample equipment and resources, such as the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fully equipped mobile vehicle, helicopter and the fixed wing aircraft, as well as associated personnel all of whom worked tirelessly to attend to the enormous work load. The team also continued with the normal routine patrols and also conducted a 4 hour air recce within the entire Amboseli and Tsavo ecosystem aided by the DSWT light aircraft. All cases that required clinical intervention were attended to promptly.

Euthanasia of a Male Injured Impala, Kimana Road Amboseli, 13th August 2015

Case History A male impala was spotted lame by the veterinary team while on their way to attend to another case. It is likely to have been hit by a car on the Amboseli-Kimana road in the early morning hours. Examination The impala was recumbent and immobile hence immobilization was not necessary for examination and assessment. On physical examination the impala had suffered from compound fractures of both hind limbs, the left forelimb and a severed left horn. Prognosis A decision to euthanize the impala using 20 ml euthanize was made. No clinical intervention could be done. The carcass was well disposed and the relevant authorities informed.

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Injury, Ithumba, 14th August 2015

Case History The DSWT rangers reported to have seen a male elephant with a suspected arrow head injury on the left hind quarters. The DSWT helicopter collected the vet team from Amboseli and flew to the location to search for the injured elephant. The elephant was finally spotted in thick bush and in the midst of its family. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized with 18mg Etorphine topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. The elephant first went down on sternal recumbence after 8 minutes and was then flipped over to lateral recumbence using a tractor. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperature low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound to the left hindquarters. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound is likely to have been caused by an arrow which had fallen off with time. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound were then thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 45 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Good

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with Arrow Injuries, Ithumba Tsavo East, 15th August 2015

Case History The DSWT rangers reported to have spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow injury to the left thoracic region. The veterinary team located the elephant at the water hole. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized with 18mg Etorphine topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 8 minutes. It was then flipped over by the vehicle for easy access of the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound to the left thoracic region. The wound was septic with necrotic tissue and was most likely inflicted by an arrow. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wounds were then thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg Clindamycin and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 4.5 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Good

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with Arrow Injuries, Komboyo Tsavo West, 19th August 2015

Case History The KWS Komboyo staff reported to have spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow injury to the left hind quarters. The Trusts helicopter collected the vet team from Amboseli and went in search of the elephant which was finally spotted at a water hole near the Komboyo campsite. Though the injured individual was in the midst of a large herd, it was successfully darted from the Trusts helicopter. The rest of the herd was herded away by both the helicopter and a vehicle to pave way for subsequent procedures. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized with 18mg Etorphine topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. The elephant went down onto lateral recumbence after 11 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound to the left hindquarters. The wound was septic with necrotic tissue and most likely caused by an arrow. The dead tissue was debrided and removed before the wound were thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine and topical antibiotic cream and green clay was applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 5 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Good

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 19th August 2015

History The DSWT pilot and vet surgeon while on their search for another reported case spotted an injured elephant in the area. The terrain was bushy and therefore darting from a helicopter was the best option. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized with 18mg Etorphine topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. Full immobilization took place after 7 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbency. The elephant was then flipped over using a land cruiser to access the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Water was doused on the ear pinnae due to the high temperatures of the Tsavo area. On physical examination the elephant had a small wound to the right flank region. The wound was lightly septic and most likely caused by an arrow. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 15 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 54mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 6 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Prognosis is good

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with a Spear Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 19th August 2015

Case History This elephant was also spotted while doing treatment of the second case. The elephant was in a bush but relatively easy to dart using the helicopter after it was seen from the light aircraft. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 6 minutes. He was then flipped over to access the wound on the right flank. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 15 cm long wound (1 month old) on the right lower flank region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made distal to the wound where there was a pus pocket to allow access and drainage of pus. The wound had been caused by a spear likely to have been thrown from a platform. About 0.8 kg of necrotic tissue was debrided and 2 liters of pus drained. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then packed into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 45 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 54mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 6 minutes to get up and walk away from the site.

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 19th August 2015

Case History The KWS Komboyo staff reported to have spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow injury to the right hindquarters. The Trust helicopter went in search of the elephant. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. The elephant bull initially went down to a sternal recumbence after 10 minutes and was quickly assisted to an appropriate lateral recumbence position making sure that the wound remained accessible for treatment. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound to the right hip. The wound, most likely inflicted by a poisoned arrow, was septic with necrotic tissue. The dead tissue was debrided, removed and then thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 4 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Good

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 19th August 2015

Case History This elephant was spotted whilst searching for the previous patient. It had a fairly large swelling on the left flank region with a little oozing pus. With an already prepared dart, this was immobilized and attended to. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. After 14 minutes, the bull went recumbent but on the wrong side and was thus rolled over to expose the wounded side for treatment. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had a healing wound with a little pus. The wound, most likely inflicted by an arrow, was thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 10 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 4 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Good

Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 20th August 2015

Case History The elephant was spotted while searching for another case on a helicopter in Komboyo area. The elephant was darted from a helicopter. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. The elephant went down in a dog sitting position after 9 minutes. He was the pushed over to lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 10 cm long wound (approx. 1 month old) on the right lower flank region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made distal to the wound where there was a pus pocket to allow access and drainage of pus. The wound had been caused by an arrow head which was removed and about 1.5 kg of necrotic tissue was debrided. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 4 minutes to get up and walk away from the site.

10. Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 20th August 2015 Case History The adult male elephant was spotted within the park while performing an aerial reece in a helicopter. A serious sceptic wound was visible from the helicopter. A decision was made to immobilize and treat the elephant. Darting was relatively easy from the DSWT helicopter though the terrain was rough and bushy. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. Darting was done using Dan-inject system from the helicopter. Full immobilization took place after 5 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbenc. With the help of a land cruiser, the elephant was flipped over for easy access to the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Plenty of water was doused on the ears (pinnae) and the entire body to help cool the elephant during the operation. On examination, the elephant was weak and had poor body condition. He had a serious wound to the dorsal thoracic region and about 5 cm from the spine. The wound was deep (approx. 90 cm), with a clean cut, septic and most likely to have been caused by a spear thrown from a platform. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream, spray and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Amoxcycillin L.A 20% and 100 ml Flunixinemeglumine and at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 40 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 54mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. Due to his weakness, the elephant had to be assisted to get up using straps with the help of rangers. Prognosis Prognosis is guarded and a second treatment is necessary. Monitoring of this elephant is ongoing.

11. Treatment of a Cow Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 21st August 2015 Case History This mother elephant was spotted while doing an aerial recce on the helicopter after treating another case. The wound was serious and necessitated darting and treatment. The elephant was darted from a helicopter. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. The elephant went down on dog sitting position after 7 minutes. Her calf would not leave her side and had to be chased away with the vehicle and the helicopter. She was the flipped over to access the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 20 cm long wound (approx. 1 month old) on the left lower flank region to the thoracic region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made distal to the wound where there was a pus pocket to allow access and drainage of pus from the wound. The wound had been caused by an arrow head which was removed and about 2 kg of necrotic tissue was debrided. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 40 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 54mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took about 8 minutes to be fully awake from anesthesia. The helicopter was then used to driver her in the direction of her calf and the two were reunited. Prognosis Good

12. Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 21st August 2015 Case History The DSWT pilot reported to have spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow injury to the right limb. The veterinary team had to locate and assess the elephant from the helicopter since the vegetation was thick. The elephant was in a thick bush thicket but relatively easy to dart using the helicopter. The elephant was pushed to a relatively open ground for darting. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water the Dan Inject system from a helicopter. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 8 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound to the right flank around the thoracic region. The wound was relatively fresh and likely to have been caused by an arrow head. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 50 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took about 4.5 minutes to be fully awake from anesthesia. Prognosis Good

13. Treatment of an Elephant Calf, Tsavo East, 22nd August 2015 Case History An elephant calf was reported by the Satao Elerai staff with a swollen left forelimb. The veterinary team attended to the case and decided to immobilize it for examination and treatment. Immobilization, examination and treatment Physical immobilization was the most appropriate for this young calf. However, the protective mother had to be immobilized first to enable capture of the young elephant. The mother elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 2cc dart topped up using water for injection from a helicopter using the Dan-inject system. Full immobilization took place after 8 minutes and she fell on lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent by the help of a piece of stick which was placed across at the entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Water was doused on the elephant to cool her down since the temperatures were high. The calf was then physically captured after which 2mg Etorphine was administered intramuscularly to calm her during the treatment. On physical examination the calf had an infected wound to the left forelimb around the hock joint region. The injury could have been as a result of a predator attack. On palpation no crepitation could be felt hence the team decided to go ahead and treat the young calf. The dead tissue was debrided and the wound thoroughly cleaned using water and hydrogen peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. The calf was injected with 20ml Betamox L.A, 3 vials Dalacin and 30ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. Topical antibiotic ointment and grey clay was then applied on the wound to facilitate healing. The operation lasted 30 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 60mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took about 4.5 minutes to be fully awake from anesthesia. Prognosis Good

14. Treatment of a Lion Injured by a Buffalo, Sala Gate Tsavo East, 22nd August 2015 Case History A male lion sub adult was spotted by rangers at Galana conservancy and reported to have been lame. The veterinary team immediately attended to the case and made a decision to immobilize and examine the lion. Immobilization, examination and management The lion was immobilized using 3.5 mgs Medetomidine and 280 mg Ketamine in a 3cc dart topped up with water using the Dan-inject system from a vehicle. Full immobilization took place after 5 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbence. The lion was blind folded and opticlox applied to the eyes. On physical examination the lion had suffered from injuries from a buffalo around the head region. There was a fracture around the ocular region and she was very weak and had poor body condition. Prognosis It was evident that the lioness had a poor prognosis even with treatment. Sadly she was euthanized.

15. Treatment of a Bull Elephant with an Arrow Wound, Komboyo Tsavo West, 23rd August 2015 Case History The elephant was spotted from a helicopter during an aerial recce. The veterinary team made a decision to dart, examine and treat the elephant. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised with 18mg Etorphine topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from the helicopter. The first dart failed to discharge the narcotic and hence a second dart had to be loaded. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 8 minutes following the second dart. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 4 cm long healing wound to the dorsal left hind limb. The wound had been caused by an arrow and the elephant attended to previously. This was therefore going to be the final treatment for this elephant who had responded very well to the first treatment. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100ml BetamoxL.A, and 50ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 minutes. Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 54mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into the ear vein. It took 4 minutes to get up and walk away from the site.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2015 Introduction The Amboseli MVU during this month was faced with a number of cases spanning the entire Amboseli and Tsavo ecosystem whilst covering for the Tsavo MVU. There has been a gradual increase in the number of cases within the Amboseli ecosystem due to the dry season.

Treatment of injured elephant, Ithumba, 3rd September 2015

History The veterinary team while trying to locate a reported injured elephant spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow head injury in the left forelimb. Plans were made on how to immobilize and treat the elephant. The elephant was darted at the water hole for examination and treatment. Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99速) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart was prepared. Darting was carried out using the Dan Inject system and was relatively easy at the water hole despite the thick vegetation. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 15 minutes. Using a tractor, the elephant was flipped over for easy access of the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 5 inch deep wound (3-4 weeks old) on the left fore limb. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound had been caused by an arrow which was retrieved from the wound. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. An opening on the ventral side of the wound was made for easy drainage to prevent further infection. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg Clindamycin (Dalacin C) and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 minutes. Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (60mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 6 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia. Prognosis Good

Treatment of injured elephant, Ithumba, 3rd September 2015

History Rangers at Ithumba DSWT stockade reported a case of an injured male elephant at Ithumba. The veterinary team located the elephant at the water hole and decided to dart,examine and treat the elephant. Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99速) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart was prepared. Darting was carried out using the Dan Inject system and was relatively easy from a vehicle at the water hole. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence after 9 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 12 inch deep wound (1 month old) on the right flank region but close to the hip region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound had been caused by an arrow which the team managed to retrieve from the wound. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg Clindamycin (Dalacin C) and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 minutes. Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (60mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 4 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia. Prognosis Good

Treatment of injured elephant, Amboseli National Park, 7th September 2015

History The adult male elephant was spotted within the park while performing routine patrol. A decision was made to immobilize and treat the elephant. The elephant was in a bushy area hence the DSWT was requested for darting. It was relatively easy from the helicopter though the terrain was rough and bushy. Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using Dan-inject system from the helicopter. Full immobilization took place after 7 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbency. With the help of a land cruiser, the elephant was flipped over for easy access to the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Plenty of water was doused on the ears (pinnae) and the entire body to help cool the elephant during the operation. Examination and Treatment On examination, the elephant was in fair body condition. He had a serious wound was on the right flank region. The wound had 2 openings and was likely to have been caused by a spear thrown from a platform. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream, spray and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Amoxcycillin L.A 20% and 100 ml dexamethasone and at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 50 minutes. Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. The elephant was up in 4 minutes and walked away. 2nd Treatment This was carried out after 2 weeks. Procedure was as during the 1st treatment though this time darting was from a motor vehicle. Great signs of improvement were observed and the elephant was given a clean bill of health. Prognosis Prognosis is good

Rescuing an infant zebra, Amboseli, 12th September 2015

History A young zebra was reported abandoned in Amboseli by rangers. The mother could not be seen hence reunion was impossible. A decision was made to relocate him the Nairobi animal orphanage. Immobilization Physical restraint was used due to the age of the zebra. Using a landcruiser the young zebra was relocated to the orphanage for further nurturing and care.

Rescue of sub adult eland, Amboseli, 18th September 2015

History An eland was reported to have been spotted trapped in a 60 acre electric fenced plot in Lemongo area of Amboseli ecosystem. The eland could not jump over the fence and it was eviden he had been stuck in the farm for about 1 week. He was dehydrated and starved. A decision was made to relocate him to the Amboseli National park. Immobilization The eland was immobilized using Etorphine HCL 7 mg and Azerperone 50 mg. He was fully immobilized after 5 min. He was loaded into a land cruise and relocated to Amboseli National Park after reviving using using 24 mg diprenorphine HCL.

Saving a snared black rhino, Mukururo, 20th September 2015

History Informed by daily camera trap images, the Mukururo Rhino monitoring teams quickly raised an alarm that sparked a series of events with one objective; saving baby Bahati, an orphaned baby Rhino that narrowly escaped a deadly poaching incident that robbed him of his mother a year ago. Bahati was apparently walking round with a woven wire (cable) snare and was getting tighter and tighter due to the front feet treading. Championed by the Big Life Foundation and supported by other sister conservation giants (Northern Rangelands Trust, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust) and fully backed by the Kenya Wildlife Service, resources were mobilized and a search kicked off, both ground and aerial. The first three days were unsuccessful but an evidently invisible aluta continua spirit finally paid off the fourth day. Joy, tribulation, and rejuvenation momentarily reined the air when Bahati was spotted and darted from a helicopter. Immobilisation Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99®) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 3.5mg and 50mgs Azaperone topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml dan - inject dart was prepared. Darting was carried out using the Dan Inject system from a Helicopter. All effort was made to get the Rhino to a more secure point before the full immobilization effect but the Chyulu’s rugged, rocky, and thickly covered bushes were a great hindrance. The Rhino finally went down in lateral recumbence after ducking into a totally inaccessible point. This called for Extra Emergence effort that saw critical personnel being airlifted to the Rhino site. Sadly, Bahati had already succumbed. Cause of death A differential diagnosis suggested the sceptic 5cm deep wire cut around the neck lead to bacterial infection and hence septicemia. Hyperthermia and hypoxia caused by the effect of the narcotics, high temperatures in the region and the tight snare were other obvious complications that must have contributed to the animal’s instantaneous collapse and death. The two Rhino horns were thus retrieved and handed over to the KWS (in charge Mukururo station).

Treatment of injured elephant at Ithumba, 22nd September 2015

History The adult male elephant was spotted within the park while performing an aerial reece. A serious sceptic wound was visible from a light aircraft. A decision was made to immobilize and treat the elephant. The veterinary team attended to the case. Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using Dan-inject system from a vehicle. The elephant ducked int the thick nearby bush and disappeared within sight. A thorough search was embarked on for the search of the darted elephant. The search took about 1 hour and the elephant was spotted on a ridge. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Plenty of water was doused on the ears (pinnae) and the entire body to help cool the elephant during the operation. Examination and Treatment On examination, the elephant was weak and had a poor body condition. He had 2 serious wound was on the dorsal flank region close to the thoracic region and rear hind limb. The wound was deep (aprox. 90 cm), with a clean cut and sceptic. It is likely to have been caused by an arrow head. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream, spray and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Amoxcycillin L.A 20% and 100 ml Flunixine meglumine and at different sites intramuscularly. Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. Owing to his weakness, the elephant could not get up. Respiration and pulse rate went down. Resuscitation was attempted for about 15 minutes but sadly the elephant died.

Treatment of injured elephant at Ithumba, 25th September 2015

History The elephant was spotted while searching for a reported injured elephant at the Ithumba stockade. The wound was serious and necessitated darting and treatment. The elephant was darted from a vehicle. Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and was done from a helicopter. The elephant went down on dog sitting position after 7 minutes. He was the flipped over to access the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 20 cm diameter wound (approx. 1 month old) on the dorsal flank region in the thoracic region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound had been caused by an arrow head which had fallen off with time but caused massive tissue damage. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes. Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 4 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia.

Treatment of injured elephant, Tsavo East National Park (Salt Lick), 28th September 2015

History This was spotted in due course of searching for a reported injured elephant. It had a fairly large swelling on the left flank region with a little oozing pus. With an already prepared dart, this was immobilized and attended to. Immobilization EtorphineHcl (0.98%) (M99速) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared. Darting was carried out using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. After 10 minutes, the bull went recumbent but on the wrong side and was thus rolled over to expose the wounded side for treatment. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold. Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a healing wound with a little pus. The wound, most likely inflicted by an arrow, had come off with time. This was thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 15 minutes. Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (60mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took 5 minutes to get up and walk away from the site. Prognosis Good