Vantara animal rehabilitation activities

The Vantara animal rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat, has undertaken several wildlife rescue and medical efforts. In late October 2026, the facility received three elephants relocated from a German circus, a transition coordinated by PETA Germany and PETA India to move the animals from performance life to permanent housing. Upon arrival, caretakers noted the elephants initially only responded to familiar commands in German.

In November 2026, the center airlifted Maya, an 18-month-old elephant calf, from Kerala to Gujarat for specialized treatment. Maya, who had been under the care of Kerala forest officials since being found abandoned in April 2025, required intensive monitoring at the Vantara hospital due to fractures, a chest infection, and potential parathyroid-related disorders. The transfer followed an order from Kerala’s Chief Wildlife Warden, Dr. P. Pugazhendi, after local efforts to stabilize the animal proved insufficient. Specialists, including Vantara Veterinary Advisor Dr. Kushal Konwar Sarma, are monitoring her condition, which includes severe bone weakness and pressure sores.