Constipated Python rescued in Bengaluru after three hours of surgery

In Bengaluru's Bantwal, located in the Dakshina Kannada district, a peculiar incident unfolded as snake rescuer Dhiraj Navoor attended to a python in distress. The snake, initially spotted near a house, appeared lethargic and unwell, leaving Navoor suspicious about its condition. He speculated that it might have been injured, possibly struck by someone.

Promptly, the python was transported to the Little Paws Veterinary Clinic in Mangaluru on a motorcycle. Upon a thorough examination, veterinarians discovered an unusual ailment afflicting the serpent: constipation. Dr. Yashaswi Naravi, a veterinary surgeon and the founder of Little Paws, elaborated on the condition, stating that the python had accumulated a substantial mass of hardened feces, causing its discomfort and lethargy.

Weighing in at 13 kg, the python underwent anesthesia and subsequently underwent an ultrasound examination, followed by a three-hour surgical procedure. Dr. Naravi revealed that during the surgery, all the obstructive fecal matter was removed, and the snake received a regimen of fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication for a span of five days. He further remarked that constipation is an uncommon ailment among pythons, and in his decade-long practice, he had never encountered such a case before.


After a successful recovery, the python was released back into its natural habitat in close proximity to the area where it was initially found. Dr. Naravi explained the reasoning behind this decision, stating, "We don't release snakes too far from the rescue site," underscoring the importance of ensuring the animal's familiar surroundings.

The veterinary care provided to the python did not come without compassion and generosity. Dr. Naravi and his wife, Dr. Meghana Pemmaiah, who specialize in wildlife medicine and surgery, bore the expenses incurred during the procedure. When asked about the total cost, Dr. Naravi responded, "Honestly, I didn't count the cost. We do it as part of charity and out of our own interest."

The couple actively collaborates with the forest department in handling wildlife rescue cases. Dr. Naravi, shedding light on the challenges of animal surgeries, noted, "Animals can be unpredictable in terms of temperament and recovery," emphasizing the complexities involved in providing medical care to wildlife.

(The article was originally published in TOI)