Udupi: A python that was severely injured after coming in contact with a grass-cutting blade was rescued, treated, and successfully released back into the wild recently. Akshay N Shet, wildlife rescuer and founder of Uchuu Trust (Udupi Snake In The City), discovered the adult python, weighing approximately 32kg, with multiple deep wounds.
On Nov 16, Akshay N Shet was informed about an injured python. Upon visiting the site, he found the injured adult python around 10ft long. Shet, along with the forest department, shifted the snake to Samanvaya Veterinary Clinic, Udupi, for further medical assistance.
During the physical examination, multiple long wounds, approximately 15cm in length, were observed, with major portions of the internal organs prolapsed through the wounds. A team of veterinarians, including Dr Anirudh, Dr Atulya B, and other supporting staff at the clinic, were actively involved in the surgical correction of the injuries. The snake was placed under general anaesthesia during the procedure. The procedure lasted about 70 minutes, after which the snake regained consciousness.
Shet said painkillers and antibiotics were administered over the next seven days, along with proper wound care and monitoring. The snake was released back into the wild after it was certified fit by the veterinarians.
Dr Atulya B managed the anaesthesia, while Dr Anirudh Puravankara performed surgical repairs to address the injuries under the guidance of Dr Yashaswi Naravi and Dr Meghana Pemmaiah of the Chitte Pili Rescue Centre in Mangaluru.
We have treated several pythons and cobras, including a king cobra that sustained injuries due to a grass-cutting machine. Whenever such accidents are reported, it is important for the public to bring it to the nearest clinic or hospital for treatment, said Dr Yashaswi Naravi and Dr Meghana Pemmaiah, who have treated at least six pythons injured due to grass cutters and earthmovers during the year.
