Veterinarians treat war-zone rescued animals at Jordan sanctuary

A team from Four Paws International and Al Ma’wa sanctuary in Jordan performed vital medical interventions on animals rescued from war zones. Their four-day mission focused on treating malnourished and stressed animals, including a 14-year-old lioness suffering from kidney issues.

A team of veterinarians from Four Paws International and Al Ma’wa, a sanctuary operated by the Princess Alia Foundation, recently completed a critical medical mission in Jerash, Jordan. The four-day operation focused on providing vital care to animals rescued from war zones, primarily addressing the severe health issues faced by these animals due to malnutrition, trauma, and captivity.

Dr. Amir Khalil, Director of Reveal and Rescue Response at Four Paws International, led the team in examining the 14-year-old lioness, who showed signs of extreme weight loss and suspected kidney failure. "Her weight has dropped significantly, now around 100 kilograms, and she obviously has kidney issues," Dr. Khalil explained. Many of the animals they treat are rescued from war zones, often arriving in poor health due to the stress and hardships endured in captivity.

During their visit, the team, which included experts from Germany and Austria, carried out nine surgeries on rescued lions and other animals. These procedures, including sterilisation of nine lionesses at Al Ma’wa for Nature and Wildlife, were part of routine check-ups aimed at improving the health and well-being of animals from conflict zones. Dr. Frank Göritz from the Leibnitz Institute of Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) also joined the effort, performing critical interventions alongside the local veterinary team in Jordan.

Dr. Khalil stressed that animals coming from captivity, especially those from war-torn regions, face multiple health challenges. "They often suffer from severe malnutrition and bone-related issues," he said. "Many arrive highly stressed, exposed to bombings and warplanes, and this trauma causes severe nervous conditions."

Al Ma’wa, a sanctuary unique to the Middle East for its resources and capacity, is home to a variety of rescued animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. These animals are often recovered from zoos or from individuals who have mistreated or abandoned them, and Al Ma’wa provides them with a sanctuary where they can heal and thrive in a safer environment.

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