VEER
Year of arrival: 2026
Age at the time of arrival: Approximately 26 years old
Sex: Male
Recognisable features: Visible joint abnormality in his right front limb
Health condition when rescued: Arthritis/gout-like disease, chronic joint degeneration in the right front leg, footpads in poor condition
Facility: Elephant Hospital Campus (EHC)
Background: Veer had spent years enduring a life of exploitation. Used for begging and religious processions, he was made to walk long distances on hard concrete roads while being ridden for most of his life. He was also subjected to logging work and made to carry heavy loads, which placed immense strain on his body, affecting his gait. To provide Veer with medical attention, he has been relocated to the Elephant Hospital Campus (EHC) in Mathura, where he is receiving long-term specialised care. | READ MORE ABOUT VEE
VEER’S STORY
At just 26 years of age, Veer’s body had already borne the weight of prolonged hardship. Years of being ridden and forced to walk on unforgiving concrete surfaces had taken a visible toll on his limbs. His front right leg was abnormally bent, likely the result of chronic joint degeneration. His footpads were also in extremely poor condition, raising serious concerns about his mobility and quality of life.
Recognising his declining health and citing financial hardship, Veer’s owner formally stated that he was unable to provide the veterinary treatment, nutrition, and maintenance that the elephant urgently requires.
A dedicated rescue team from Wildlife SOS, led by veterinarians and supported by trained caregivers, was mobilised to bring Veer to safety. Upon arrival at the Elephant Hospital Campus in Mathura, he underwent a comprehensive medical evaluation. Immediate priorities included pain management, diagnostic imaging, joint assessment, nutritional stabilisation, and the development of a long-term treatment plan tailored to his condition.
For the first time in years, Veer’s feet rest on soft earth instead of concrete. He is receiving specialised veterinary attention and lives in a peaceful environment designed to prioritise his comfort and healing.
