Ellie the baby elephant was abandoned by his herd shortly after he was born. Fortunately, Karen Tredler and the staff of the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage in South Africa took the animal in and cared for him. Although the elephant escaped death and recovered, Karen realised that the rejection of his herd had also left its mark on his heart. That’s when she decided to introduce the pachyderm to a dog named Duma. Their friendship now melts hearts all over the world – watch these two play and you’ll know why! Watch the adorable video of the two below:
When Ellie arrived at Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage, he had severe health problems. There was an open wound around his navel, which had led to a dangerous blood infection. In 99% of cases, these animals do not survive. But Karen and her staff at Thula Thula refused to give up on the baby elephant and cared for him 24 hours a day.
Ellie defied all circumstances and survived. However, although the baby elephant was able to survive his health problems, Karen noticed that his heart was not yet fully healed. Elephants are social creatures that live in herds, and Ellie needed a family. After many unsuccessful attempts to introduce the elephant to other conspecifics, Karen decided to introduce Ellie to Thula Thula’s dog, Duma.
Ellie and Duma are now a little family of their own!
Watch this touching video about Ellie and Duma’s friendship that is moving the hearts of animal lovers all over the world!
