An elephant in Kerala’s Anakkotta is set to receive shoes: Here’s why

Guruvayur: Elephants in Guruvayur elephant camp (Anakkotta ) are set to get shoes to protect against foot disease. The footwear will keep mud and dirt out while medicine is applied to their feet. This innovative initiative was inspired by the need for better foot care.

Nandini, a beloved female elephant, is the first to receive these special shoes. Although she is still undergoing treatment, her foot condition has improved, and she receives daily care by soaking her feet in medicated water.

Nandini was also the first elephant to have a rubber mattress placed in her enclosure at Anakkotta (the elephant camp).

Elephants suffering from foot disease often have difficulty walking due to pain, which can sometimes prevent them from placing their feet on the ground. If stones get lodged in their feet, it causes additional discomfort. Similarly, it is challenging for the animals to walk on concrete surfaces.

Wearing shoes will help elephants like Nandini avoid these issues and make walking easier. The shoes will also help prevent overheating when they are exposed to the sun.

The elephant shoes are being made by shoemakers from Kodungallur, who will visit Anakkotta to take Nandini's measurements.

K. S. Mayadevi, the Deputy Administrator of Anakkotta, confirmed that the shoemakers will arrive soon for this purpose.

Veterinarian Dr. P. B. Giridas mentioned that while shoes are not commonly used for elephants, utilising them for medical reasons is a beneficial approach.