Pakistani Camel Trains to Walk with Prosthetic Leg, Relearns Trek with Determination
Cammie the Camel Receives Prosthetic Leg in Karachi
In an unprecedented veterinary breakthrough, a young camel named Cammie has been fitted with a prosthetic leg after the original limb was severed by a landlord in Sindh province last year.
Background of the Incident
- June 2024: A landlord in Sanghar province was accused of cutting off Cammie’s front leg as a punishment for entering his field.
- Video circulation: A video of the wounded camel went viral on social media, prompting swift government action.
- Transport: Cammie was moved the very next day to a shelter in Karachi, over 250 kilometers away, where she has remained ever since.
Caregivers’ Emotional Response
The manager of the animal shelter, Sheema Khan, recounted that she started weeping when she saw Cammie walking with the prosthetic leg.
“It was a dream come true,” she said, describing the moment as one that left her caregivers emotional.
Rehabilitation Process
Initial care involved treating the wound and providing a sanctuary for the injured camel. The shelter, Comprehensive Disaster Response Services (CDRS) Benji Project, introduced another young camel named Callie to comfort Cammie.
After a period of four to five months in her enclosure, Cammie was able to stand on her three legs for the first time after Callie’s arrival.
Prosthetic Leg Acquisition
Veterinarian Babar Hussain confirmed that this was the first time a large animal in Pakistan had received a prosthetic leg. The prosthetic was sourced from a U.S.-based firm, enabling Cammie to walk on all fours again.
“We don’t force her to walk,” Hussain explained. “After attaching the prosthetic, we wait about 15 to 20 minutes. Then she stands up on her own and walks slowly.” He added that full adjustment to the new limb would take another 15 to 20 days.
Future of Cammie
The caregivers have stated that Cammie will remain at the shelter permanently, ensuring she receives ongoing care and support.
Key Takeaways
- Cammie’s front leg was cut off by a landlord in June 2024.
- She was transported to Karachi and received a prosthetic leg from a U.S. firm.
- Veterinarian Babar Hussain performed the fitting, with gradual rehabilitation.
- Callie, another camel, provided comfort during the recovery.
- Cammie will stay at the shelter permanently, receiving continuous care.
