Successful management of a traumatic shoulder wound in a rescued barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) at Veterinary Hospital Narharpur, Chhattisgarh, India: A case report

Abstract

Wild ungulates frequently suffer traumatic injuries due to habitat fragmentation, road accidents, predator encounters, wire entanglement and increasing human–wildlife interactions. An adult male Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak) weighing approximately 18–20 kg was rescued by the Forest Department and presented to Veterinary Hospital Narharpur, Chhattisgarh, with a traumatic wound over the left shoulder region. Clinical examination revealed a deep lacerated wound involving skin and subcutaneous tissues with inflammation, pain and mild hemorrhage. The wound was managed through thorough cleansing, debridement, antiseptic dressing, systemic antibiotic therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and supportive treatment. Regular wound dressing at 48-hour intervals resulted in progressive granulation tissue formation and wound contraction. Complete healing was achieved within 21 days without complications. The animal regained normal activity and feeding behaviour and was subsequently declared fit for release into its natural habitat. This report highlights the importance of timely veterinary intervention and systematic wound management in successful wildlife rehabilitation.