On Tuesday (8 Sept), Krabi Elephant Hospital announced that Bua Sawan, an elephant that had been bedridden for more than eight years, had died two days earlier on Sunday (6 Sept).
A veterinarian who cared for her for five years also posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, sharing fond memories of their time together.
Source: Krabi Elephant Hospital on Facebook
In a Facebook post, Krabi Elephant Hospital shared that Bua Sawan had previously suffered an accident that severely damaged her spinal cord.
An earlier report said the elephant had fallen into an irrigation canal. The injury left all four of her legs paralysed, and she remained bedridden for more than eight years under the hospital’s care.
Source: Thairath
A preliminary post-mortem examination found that Bua Sawan had suffered internal organ failure.
Samples have since been sent for further laboratory testing to determine her exact cause of death, with the hospital saying it will provide an update once the results are conclusive.
Source: Krabi Elephant Hospital on Facebook
The hospital also thanked those who had supported Bua Sawan over the years with medicine, medical supplies, essential items, as well as love and encouragement.
It bade the elephant a final farewell, wishing her a peaceful rest and a happy journey ahead.
The accompanying photos also showed hospital staff paying their respects to Bua Sawan following her death.
Source: Krabi Elephant Hospital on Facebook
Dr Bow, a veterinarian who cared for Bua Sawan for five years before moving away, also posted an emotional tribute to the elephant on Tuesday.
“Off on a long journey now, Bua,” she wrote, adding that the pair had formed a very close bond during their years together and that even the smallest memories of Bua continued to come back to her.
She recalled tending to Bua’s wounds, only for the elephant to spray saliva at her, as well as hearing her call out when she wanted Vitamilk.
Bua also had a cheeky side, with Dr Bow remembering the little trunk that would try to snatch food straight from her mouth.
Source: หมอโบว์ on Facebook
Their bond extended beyond Bua’s treatment. Dr Bow said the elephant would wrap her trunk around her legs whenever she was frightened, and recalled teaching her how to pretend to be asleep.
She also remembered making Bua a birthday cake and seeing her eyes light up, as well as singing “Happy Birthday” to her, something that would leave Dr Bow in tears every time.
In her farewell, Dr Bow wished Bua a journey to somewhere “warm, safe, and happy”.
No matter how far away you are, the memories of the five years we shared will always remain in my heart. Love and miss you always, Bua. RIP.
Also read: Senior elephant with deformed spine finds peace in Thai sanctuary after decades of carrying tourists
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Featured image adapted from Thairath and หมอโบว์ on Facebook.