In the quiet town of Mahua, Uttar Pradesh, surrounded by fields, a young boy watched animals wandering freely through his neighbourhood. Among them were some that needed care and treatment. The boy’s father, a kind and devoted human doctor, was often approached by villagers carrying injured or sick animals in their arms. While his medical expertise sometimes helped and brought immense relief to grateful villagers, there were many moments when, without the right medicines or veterinary training, there was little he could do.
Watching those moments left an imprint on young Rahul’s heart. Even as a child, he felt strongly that someone needed to stand up for these voiceless beings. That feeling stayed with him through school, quietly shaping his path. Those childhood impressions became his first real steps toward becoming a veterinarian, guiding him towards the life he lives today. At Wildlife SOS, every rescue we attempt and every life we safeguard is made possible by the people who stand at the heart of the work. Dr. Rahul Prasad’s passion for wildlife finds its roots early in his life, and now, as a Veterinary Officer with Wildlife SOS, he is treating elephants across India, capturing what true compassion looks like in practice. Let’s get to know more about Dr. Rahul.
What inspired you to join Wildlife SOS, and how has your journey evolved since your first day here?
After setting up my own clinic and treating animals in the field, I visited many places and saw many injured animals but very few people were equipped to help them. That’s when I knew I wanted to dedicate myself to wildlife. I kept searching for opportunities, and one day, I came across a Wildlife SOS video on YouTube. It made everything clear. I reached out to the organisation in 2018, and eventually had my interview. I received training by veterinary experts at the Bannerughatta Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC) and then joined the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in early March 2019. My first day at training itself set the tone for the years ahead. The moment I arrived, I got a call concerning cattle treatment. I put my bag down and immediately left. No water, no break, just pure work. We travelled nearly 30-40 km for this. And honestly, I loved it. This field is unpredictable and demanding, but that’s exactly what I wanted. Since then, I’ve grown every single day, through rescues across the country, conferences, and hands-on experience in terrains and situations I never imagined.
Can you walk us through a rescue or incident that had a lasting impact on you?
There are many, but Manu’s rescue remains unforgettable. He hadn’t been able to stand for three days. We tried everything, medical treatment, support systems, even a cane to lift him, but something wasn’t adding up. Finally, the mahout told us how Manu usually slept. With the correct technique and a crane, we managed to lift him safely, and that moment stays with me.
Another unforgettable elephant case was Rosie’s. Her owners refused to give up custody, and people used guns and sticks to stop us from helping her. It was dangerous, but we pushed through because that’s what we were there for, to rescue her no matter what.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work, and what keeps you motivated on the tough days?
Wildlife is unpredictable, that unpredictability keeps me going. You never know what the next hour will bring. Wildlife SOS also gives us complete freedom to do whatever is needed to save an animal and I have seen this in some of our toughest rescues like Moti from Jim Corbett, where Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder of Wildlife SOS, involved top officials and even the army, trying until the very last moment. For Bani’s treatment, where worldwide experts were consulted, acupuncture, specialised therapies, and everything was made possible. Seeing her walk today, sometimes even run, reminds me why our work matters. Our organisation ensures that no medicine, no equipment, no effort is ever denied because as a vet, that freedom means everything.
Every team member forms a special bond with at least one animal. Who is that for you?
Bani, Holly, Ginger, and Raju — all for different reasons! Holly especially, she has my heart. Despite arthritis in all four limbs, and even a joint dislocation, her willpower is extraordinary. Once, during treatment, she was about to fall, but she pushed herself back up because she realised I was standing underneath her. That moment showed me how deeply even a giant like an elephant can care. Raju, too, stands out, abused for years but still gentle, as even during peak musth, he remains cooperative and trusting with his caregivers.
What’s one challenge that taught you something important?
Every day is a challenge. Each case teaches something new, no two situations are the same. That’s what keeps you humble and constantly learning. The more I learn, the more I realise how little I know. That curiosity helps me come to work each day with enthusiasm to learn something new.
We know you’re a medical expert, but how do you describe yourself as a person?
I’m a very simple person. I believe if someone wants to understand me, they need their heart and not their brain. Other than that I enjoy spending my time exercising as physical, mental, and emotional strength are all important in wildlife work, and staying fit helps me give my best on the field.
Do you have a favourite species? And If you could step into the life of any wild animal for a day, which one would it be?
Yes — dogs, especially street dogs. They have no one looking out for them, so I feel responsible to help and feed them whenever I can. And as a wild animal, I would like to experience the life of an elephant without a doubt, they’re such majestic beings.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received in life?
My father always told me: “Hardworking people never fear anything. There are no shortcuts in life, as they only provide temporary happiness.” I believe in that deeply, as loyalty towards your work is everything. Using this advice, I want to protect all wildlife, with better technology, stronger systems, more coexistence, and solutions that allow both humans and animals to share space safely.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about wildlife rescue and conservation?
Education is everything. Whether it’s from a newspaper, a poster, a street play, or the internet, awareness must reach everyone. Myths need to be broken and communities need to understand wildlife, conflict, and compassion, something that is essential for long-term change.
If you were not a veterinarian, what is it that you would choose to do?
If I was not a vet, I believe I would do anything that helps others. I believe in karma, in working for society, in helping whenever possible, so I’m sure I would have found another way to serve.
Dr. Rahul’s story reflects the quiet courage needed to work in wildlife conservation. His compassion and commitment have changed countless lives, humans and animals alike. To the animals he treats, he is more than a veterinarian. And to us, he is a reminder that kindness doesn’t need to be loud, it just needs to be constant.
If this story resonates with you, do support the efforts of our veterinary team by making a donation. Every helping hand brings us one step closer to a world filled with care and compassion.
Feature Image : Wildlife SOS/ Mradul Pathak
