A young hippopotamus at Kolkata's historic Alipore Zoological Garden has become the centre of an extraordinary animal care operation. The female hippo, named Dhenu, found herself in a precarious situation after being unable to climb out of her pool for nearly three weeks. This unusual predicament prompted zoo authorities to launch a dedicated rescue and rehabilitation effort, culminating in a specialised physiotherapy regimen for the massive mammal.
The Three-Week Aquatic Ordeal
The incident began in late February 2024, when the hippopotamus, estimated to be around 10 years old, entered the water body in its enclosure. For reasons still being investigated, the animal could not muster the strength to haul its considerable bulk—weighing approximately 1.5 tonnes—back onto dry land. For 19 consecutive days, Dhenu remained largely submerged in the pool, raising serious concerns among veterinarians and animal keepers about her health and muscle condition.
Zoo officials monitored the situation closely, hoping the animal would exit on its own. When it became clear she was stuck, a decision was made to intervene. The primary challenge was the hippo's weakened state; prolonged immersion and lack of proper movement had taken a toll. Simply forcing her out could cause injury, necessitating a more nuanced approach.
A Rescue Mission and the Start of Rehabilitation
In early March, a team from the zoo, along with veterinary experts, carefully managed to coax and assist Dhenu out of the water. The successful extraction was only the first step. The real work began immediately after, focusing on her physical recovery. The hippo was reported to be suffering from severe weakness and muscle stiffness due to her extended immobility in the aquatic environment.
To address this, the zoo's veterinary team prescribed a course of physiotherapy, a relatively uncommon but crucial treatment for large animals in such distress. The physiotherapy protocol is designed to help Dhenu regain strength, improve circulation, and restore mobility in her limbs. This involves carefully guided movements and exercises tailored to her condition, administered under strict supervision to prevent any further stress or injury.
Ongoing Care and Future Precautions
As of now, Dhenu is under constant observation. The zoo authorities have stated that her condition is stable and she is responding positively to the treatment. The focus is on a gradual recovery, ensuring she regains her full strength and can move normally within her enclosure. This incident has also prompted a review of the enclosure's design, particularly the exit points from the pool, to prevent a similar situation from occurring in the future with Dhenu or other animals.
The Alipore Zoo, one of India's oldest formal zoos, has a history of caring for a wide variety of species. This episode highlights the evolving standards of animal welfare and the specialized medical interventions now available in modern zoological parks. The dedication shown by the keepers and veterinarians in providing prolonged supportive care and now physiotherapy underscores a commitment to going beyond basic needs to ensure the well-being of the animals in their charge.
While the hippo's full recovery is expected to take time, her story is a testament to the efforts made by wildlife caretakers in India to address unique and challenging medical situations, ensuring every animal receives a chance at a healthy life.
