By Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre | Wonderful support for HESC
The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) would like to update you on the wonderful support we have received over the last few months:
HESC is extremely happy to report that Esme, the baby rhino, has picked up 110kg (243 pounds) due to the donations that they have received through Global Giving. Arriving at the centre at 57kg (125 pounds), Esme now weighs an astonishing 167kg (368 pounds). The donations also ensured that Esme could get veterinary care and treatment from Dr Rogers, this included a very important blood transfusion from one of our other rhino, Philippe. This procedure was performed to help boost her anti-bodies and improve her immune system which at one point was a little weak. This is likely due to her not receiving the important colostrum from her mother.
The weight gain and constant care indicates that little Esme is heading in the right direction to being fully rehabilitated. She now goes on daily walks around the centre with David under the watchful eye of a dedicated team member. She enjoys exploring her surroundings and loves the mud baths that tend to happen every few meters after some rain. To watch Esme rolling around in the mud brings a sense of innocence, all this while David plays in the mud as well.
Global Giving donations have also helped ensure around the clock protection, not only from the Anti Poaching Unit (APU), but also from her companion and protector David, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog. The pairing of Esme and David is also a world first and it was a decision we are glad we took as the breeds are are calm, confident but will investigate and aggressively confront any intruders or threats to their herd, which now includes little Esme. This has been witnessed by the curators who work closely with the two.
HESC believes that EVERY SINGLE RHINO counts and even these small babies are a target to poachers.
Going forward HESC will ensure that Esme receives the best care and continue to work around the clock in aid of all the rhinos and animals at the centre.
Thank you to every donation and every share. Thank you for helping us spread the word.
Yours in conservation
The HESC team
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