Efforts at the Pushkar Fair Showcase the Transformative Power of Kindness

 

Help in Suffering (HIS) is deeply grateful to AAA’s generous supporters, whose donations made it possible to care for hundreds of camels at the Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan. 

This annual event, held every October-November, is a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition in the ‘Thar’ desert, attracting traders and thousands of animals from across northern India.

The Pushkar Fair: A Blend of Tradition and Trade

Set in the holy town of Pushkar, approximately 150 kilometres from Jaipur, the fair is a convergence of spirituality, trade, and culture. Known for its ancient temples and sacred ghats, Pushkar hosts this colourful event where villagers and traders gather with their camels, horses, and bullocks. This year alone, nearly 8,500 animals made the journey to the fair, many walking for days with their owners.

The fair is more than a market - but also the bond between humans and animals. Although, for the animals, the journey is often long and challenging, and the fair can present significant risks to their health.

HIS at Pushkar: Care for Camels

This year, HIS set up a free camel treatment camp from 7th to 14th November. Led by vets Dr Abhinav Swami and Dr Himanshu Burman, and supported by a dedicated team of compounders, the camp provided much-needed care for the camels, treating 722 animals for a variety of issues.

  • Wound Care: Many camels arrived with nose peg injuries, saddle sores, and leg wounds. The team emphasised the importance of using plastic nose pegs instead of metal or wooden ones to prevent future injuries.

  • Skin and Parasite Treatments: 335 camels were treated for skin infections like mange, while 300 received deworming medicines to combat gastric worms.

  • Digestive Issues: Cases of indigestion, colic, and diarrhoea were common due to sudden dietary changes, stress from travel, and temperature fluctuations.

  • Lameness: Camels suffering from lameness were treated, highlighting the need for rest during long journeys.

To improve safety, HIS affixed 504 reflectors to camel carts, reducing the risk of road accidents at night. The team also distributed 1,000 leaflets in local languages, providing practical tips on camel care, including managing wounds and maintaining a healthy diet.

Spreading Awareness Through Creativity

For the first time, HIS introduced a puppet show at the fair, using storytelling to educate camel owners about animal care. The show featured two characters, Dukhi (Sad) and Sukhi (Happy), whose camels’ contrasting health highlighted the importance of proper care and access to veterinary services. The audience was captivated, and the show left a lasting impression, spreading vital information in an engaging way.

A Heartwarming Outcome

The HIS team’s work at the Pushkar Fair not only treated camels but also built awareness among their owners. Stories like that of Gopal, who expressed gratitude after HIS treated his camel’s fractured mandible, underscore the impact of this initiative.

By the Numbers: HIS at Pushkar 2024

  • Total camels treated: 722

  • Camels with mange: 335

  • Reflectors fixed on camel carts: 504

  • Nose pegs distributed: 600

  • Deworming treatments: 300

  • Educational leaflets distributed: 1,000

Thank you to our supporters, whose contributions enable Help in Suffering to provide not only medical care but also education and support. This year’s efforts at the Pushkar Fair showcase the transformative power of compassion and community.

 
Ellie Herodes