The Punjab government has developed Pakistan's first mobile wildlife clinic to provide on-site treatment and rescue services for injured and sick animals. The clinic, stationed at Lahore Safari Zoo, is equipped with portable X-ray and doppler ultrasound machines, ECG, vital sign monitors, an oxygen concentrator, laboratory facilities, and instruments required for minor surgical procedures. It can also conduct preliminary blood and other diagnostic tests at the rescue site.
Designed to Reduce Stress on Wild Animals
Veterinary Services Director Dr Rizwan Khan said that transporting wild animals to hospitals was often difficult and could expose them to stress. The mobile clinic was designed to enable examination, diagnosis, and initial treatment at the location where animals are found. He noted that most of the medical equipment installed in the vehicle was portable and rechargeable, allowing veterinary teams to operate in remote areas, deserts, and mountainous regions.
Solar-Powered and Self-Sufficient
The vehicle is fitted with a solar power system and a generator to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during field operations. This self-sufficiency allows the clinic to function in areas without reliable power infrastructure. Dr Khan added that the clinic is equipped with a modern dart gun that can be used to administer medication or safely sedate wild animals from a distance when required.
Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities in the Field
Portable X-ray and ultrasound facilities will help veterinarians make quick and accurate diagnoses in the field. According to Dr Khan, the mobile wildlife clinic is the first facility of its kind in Pakistan and will be deployed across Punjab's zoos, safari parks, wildlife centres, and for rescue operations. The official said the mobile clinic would complement a recently established Wildlife Rescue Centre and a hospital where injured and sick animals receive advanced medical care and surgical treatment.
