The Animal Liberation Sanctuary Project Coordinators, in partnership with Tree of Compassion, brought renowned Australian veterinarian Dr Howard Ralph to Nepal for emergency surgery to try to save Dawa the sheep’s legs (and assist on some other cases). Dawa received a deep wound to his rear leg and a displaced and fractured knee in his front leg.
Dr Howard with Dawa (and TofC/ALS director Tania)
Despite many hours surgery, unfortunately Dawa’s front leg couldn’t be saved. Dr Howard had to work hard in the makeshift conditions at the Animal Liberation Sanctuary, Nepal, but in the end the level of infection and damaged tissue made amputation necessary. There were complications there too, with more bleeding than usual. However, Dawa is recovering well and Dr Howard has introduced some new pain management techniques that are already helping other residents with long-term ailments.
Dr Howard & Dr Umesh discuss pain management
Four Nepali veterinarians attended the surgery and said that they were very pleased to have been able to learn from Dr Howard’s experience and knowledge. The next day sanctuary vet, Dr Umesh, accompanied Dr Howard and ALS Project Coordinator Tania Duratovic on an inspection of some of the other sanctuary animals and discussed treatment options. They also visited the facilities at the new land, 10 mins walk from Kopan Monastery, which has been purpose built for the sanctuary animals and includes a much larger main shelter, a treatment room and quarantine area, a caretaker’s residence, and internal fencing system to help maintain the condition of the land sustainable into the future. The new facilities are nearing completion. Dr Howard said he was really impressed, which is a very fine endorsement!
Checking Khedrup
Everyone has expressed their gratitude for Dr Howard’s assistance and advice and so much has been gained in such a short time. It is hoped by all that he can return sometime in the future for a longer time as every drop of wisdom helps the animals and the staff and management, and this new knowledge also filters out into the rest of Nepal. A very special visit!
Pema and Dr Howard check Palden
