Home / Environment / Sloth Bear Walks Again with World's First Prosthetic Paw
Sloth Bear Walks Again with World's First Prosthetic Paw
7 Oct
Summary
- Sloth bear Vasi walks on all fours again with a custom prosthetic paw.
- Vasi lost his hind paw to a wire snare trap, leading to severe infection.
- The prosthetic limb supports natural bear behaviors like digging and climbing.
A sloth bear named Vasi has regained the ability to walk on all four limbs following the creation of the world's first prosthetic paw for his species. Vasi suffered a severe injury to his left hind paw from a wire snare trap in the forest. Although his life was saved by Wildlife SOS, the resulting infection made it impossible to save the paw.
With limited mobility on three legs, Vasi required lifelong care at Bannerghatta Sanctuary. International Animal Rescue collaborated with animal orthotist Derrick Campana to design a custom prosthetic. Campana, founder of Bionic Pets, adapted his expertise from domestic animals to create a limb strong enough for bear behaviors.
Preparations involved Vasi becoming accustomed to the sensation of a wrapped limb through positive reinforcement. The custom prosthetic was then crafted to withstand natural actions such as digging and climbing. Upon introduction, Vasi displayed curiosity and calm, soon standing on all four limbs.
Now, Vasi moves with greater confidence, able to dig, sit upright, and reach for food more easily. This milestone highlights the dedication of caregivers, supporters, and specialists who provided Vasi with enhanced mobility within his sanctuary environment.
