(IN): All’s not well with white rhino

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Link: http://www.telegraphindia.com/1071012/asp/guwahati/story_8423492.asp

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All's not well with white rhino

A STAFF REPORTER

 

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*Oct. 11:* Mohan, a white rhino at the Assam zoo, is down with diarrhoea and

his caretakers are extremely nervous.

 

The zoo vets are more concerned about the 36-year-old African rhino refusing

food for quite some time .

 

" We are taking all the necessary care. Doctors from the College of

Veterinary Sciences are also treating him, " a zoo official said.

 

The Central Zoo Authority has designated the College of Veterinary Sciences,

Khanapara, as a nodal centre for animal health in the region.

 

The official said there was no shortage of medicines and the rhino's

condition was being monitored throughout the day.

 

" The problem with wild animals is that it is difficult to go near them when

they are ill. Yesterday, all the rhino did was stand still listlessly and we

were really worried, " the official said.

 

Besides, the vets are unable to inject the rhino normally and have to resort

to darts.

 

" It has become really weak, " the official said. " We don't want to put too

much pressure on the animal, else its stress levels will increase and

aggravate its condition. "

 

The zoo authorities are worried, as the reduced intake of food may lead to

dehydration.

 

" A major problem will arise if we have to administer saline to it, " the

official said.

 

The rhino is being kept in the arena and not in its cubicle. It will be sent

back only when he is normal.

 

Mohan's age is another problem.

 

The normal lifespan of a white rhino is between 40 and 50 years.Doubts have

also been expressed over finding a mate for Mohan because of his advanced

age.

 

The rhino was bought from a zoo in the USA in 1974 for Rs 50,000.

 

 

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