Picture a blindfolded elephant forced to navigate busy streets as her cruel handlers abuse her for financial gain. This was the reality for Lakhi, a female elephant who faced a lifetime of torment before finally being rescued.
Lakhi’s tragic story began when her ruthless owners blinded her, forcing her to beg at various temples and small towns to earn money.
Exploited as a begging and performing elephant, she suffered constant abuse, resulting in numerous injuries across her body. Her blindness also made her particularly vulnerable to road accidents.
Thankfully, on February 26, 2015, Lakhi’s life took a turn for the better. After 60 years of neglect, she was gently guided onto a ten-wheel truck to embark on her journey to a new, loving home.
The Wildlife SOS team is now working to improve Lakhi’s well-being, even consulting ophthalmology experts from the UK to explore the possibility of restoring vision in one of her eyes.
Her new caretakers have also discovered that Lakhi’s diet was severely lacking, and they are now developing a nutritious meal plan tailored to her needs.
Years of walking on tar roads have damaged her foot pads and toenails, and she suffers from chronic injuries that never received proper medical attention.
At her new home, the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center in Mathura, she can finally live with the dignity and peace she deserves.
During her 1400 km journey to the sanctuary, Lakhi was treated with kindness, receiving fresh fruit treats and plenty of water.
Upon arrival, she was even seen stretching and smiling in the sunshine, a heartwarming indication that her life had changed for the better.