Jackal goes under scalpel, sprints to forest

Nagpur: An Indian jackal, rescued following a traumatic road accident near Saoner, was set free after successful treatment of multiple fractures at the forest department’s Transit Treatment Centre (TTC) at Seminary Hills in Nagpur.Jackals feature in Schedule III of Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) 1972. The sub-adult was gravely injured on August 12, 2023, and was rescued by the TTC team. After a 10-month struggle, the animal was released in its natural habitat in Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR).“The jackal needed immediate medical attention as it suffered a femur fracture of the left hindlimb which protruded out of the muscles. An X-ray revealed a complete femur fracture. The animal was stabilized after giving fluid therapy and supportive treatment,” recalls the veterinary team comprising Dr Rajesh Fulsunge, Dr Sudarshan Kakde, Dr Pankaj Thorat, and Siddhant More. The para-medical staff involved in the treatment also included Raju Khandekar, Bandu Mangar, Mahesh More, Shubham Mangar, Chetan Baraskar, and Prayag Ganraj.“The teams performed an intricate surgery to repair the fractured bone, utilizing the advanced intramedullary pinning technique. It involved inserting a metal pin into the hollow centre of the fractured bone, providing stability and support for proper healing. The procedure was completed, and the jackal was closely monitored during the post-operative period to ensure its well-being and recovery,” explains Dr Fulsunge.“After meticulous post-operative care and rehabilitation, the pin was successfully removed, and the jackal made a remarkable recovery. Once deemed fit and fully healed, the resilient animal was finally released into its natural habitat on May 15, 2024, to once again thrive in the wild,” said Bharat Singh Hada, deputy conservator of forest (DyCF).“Following the surgery, the jackal underwent rehabilitation and care at the Transit Treatment Centre. The dedicated staff at the facility provided round-the-clock attention to the animal, ensuring that it received proper nutrition, medication, and any necessary support to aid the healing process. The jackal’s progress was closely monitored, and regular check-ups were conducted to assess its recovery,” says Kundan Hate, TTC coordinator.“The location chosen for the release was an area that closely resembled the jackal’s original habitat, providing it with familiar surroundings and ample opportunities for survival,” Hada told TOI.The release was carried out by experienced wildlife professionals who ensured that the animal was safely and gently introduced back into its natural environment. “As the jackal took its first steps into the wild, it was a moment of joy and satisfaction for everyone involved in its rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation,” said Hate.
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