Alipore Zoo’s hippo undergoes physiotherapy after three weeks of paralysis in water

A four-year-old male hippopotamus at Alipore Zoo has been undergoing physiotherapy after spending nearly three weeks immobile in water due to a neurological disorder. Zoo officials confirmed that the hippo lost strength in its legs because of nerve dysfunction, leaving it unable to walk or move on land.

Veterinarians from Alipore Zoo, Belgachia Animal Hospital and Nandankanan have formed a medical board to oversee treatment. Experts from Ranchi and Mysuru zoos are also involved. Authorities had initially considered using a crane to lift the animal out of the water, but specialists advised against it, leading to a decision to begin infrared-based physiotherapy to restore nerve function.

Doctors explained that infrared rays are a form of electromagnetic therapy used to activate nerves and restore mobility in both humans and animals. The zoo has earlier used this method successfully on deer suffering from similar neurological issues, where month-long therapy helped restore leg strength.

According to the medical board, it is too early to predict recovery time, but there is hope that activating the hippo’s nerves will eventually enable it to walk again. The hippo was originally brought to Alipore Zoo from Nandankanan in 2024.