An elephant in Thailand recognized the vet who treated him 12 years ago, and the heartwarming moment was caught on camera.
A 31-yr old bull elephant, Plai Thang, had an unexpected reunion with Doctor Pattarapol Maneeon. Thang met doctor Pattarapol in the year 2009, where Thang was found struggling in Rayong, eastern Thailand, and was immediately taken to the doctor for his treatment.
Thang was suffering from fatal trypanosomiasis, a parasitic condition also known as sleeping sickness.
Doctor Pattarapol treated Thang, who was ‘close to death’ and was struggling with a fever, loss of appetite, and swelling on its face, neck, and stomach. Plai Thang was also suffering from inflamed eyes, stiff legs and back, and anemia.
He was then taken to the Forest Industry Organisation’s territory in Lampang province to be treated by the staff of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation. And the elephant was released several months after his recovery.
Earlier this month, while patrolling the same area, Doctor Pattarapol recognised the distinctive sound of the elephant he encountered 12 years ago.
Doctor Pattarapol then waved to Plai Thang who reached his trunk out to greet the doctor, recognizing him after a decade!
The vet told Dailymail, “I remember the sound very clearly. Plai Thang’s noise is very unique.”
“Plai Thang was very aggressive when we first met. His body was weak and he could not fight other elephants. It took a long time for him to heal, but we learned that he was very smart and took care of himself.”
“Recently, we met again. We could remember each other and we greeted. It was a very special moment.”
“I hope it encourages everybody to appreciate the work that people do with elephants.”
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