Update: September 5, 2019
After several days on the road from Varanasi to Sangli (with stops to eat, rest, and stretch their very long legs!) five rescued camels have arrived safely at Animal Rahat’s sanctuary—their new home.

Before beginning the long trip to the sanctuary, a government veterinarian assessed the camels and determined that they were all fit for transport. Everyone was delighted when he agreed to waive the painful ear-tagging procedure that’s usually required before a journey, after Animal Rahat staff made the case that it really was unnecessary and could damage the animals’ sensitive ear cartilage.

But that’s not to say that the camels are injury-free, as they aren’t. Some, like the two pictured below, had maggot-infested wounds from their lives before being rescued. Their owners had cut through the flesh above their nostrils and inserted wooden nose pegs into the holes. Then, they tied ropes to the pegs and used them to steer and control the animals. The photos below show the painful wounds caused by these hideous devices.

Thank goodness that’s all in the past and these camels will never endure cruel treatment again now that they’re in the caring and capable hands of Animal Rahat.

Please consider making a gift toward the care of these newest sanctuary residents and all of Animal Rahat’s other work improving the lives of animals in India.

August 30, 2019
Five rescued camels who were to be illegally sacrificed for Eid al-Adha are now traveling to their new home—Animal Rahat’s sanctuary.

The team is transporting them in two covered trucks lined with sand, which allows them to rest, sitting comfortably as they travel along. This reduces their stress and keeps them safe during the trip. The trucks stop periodically to allow the animals to unload, eat leaves from the trees, get water, and take a break.

Animal Rahat will share more details about these camels as soon as they settle into their new home.