Meet Dr Abhinav Swami
Meet Dr Abhinav Swami – head of the camel welfare project at Help in Suffering, one of our local partners in India.
Dr Abhinav Swami is a veterinarian who has worked with Help in Suffering (HIS) for 13 years. His team provides veterinary care to sick and injured working camels and helps local communities and camel owners find out more about animal welfare through innovative and engaging ways, such as puppet shows.
Why are camels so important for communities in Rajasthan?
Camels play an important socio-economic role for many communities in and around Rajasthan. They’re used for pulling carts, transportation and tourism and are a primary source of livelihood for marginalised families. When a camel falls sick or is injured, the entire family’s income is affected. Therefore, camels’ good health and welfare are essential for communities that depend on them.
What are the most common ailments and illnesses that your teams encounter, and why?
The most common problems we encounter include nose peg injuries, foot and chest pad wounds, saddle and harness wounds, mange and parasitic infestations and digestive problems. These issues mainly arise due to poor equipment, lack of veterinary access and economic constraints.
What impact is your work having on camels in Rajasthan?
Our work is helping camels live healthier lives. Our regular mobile clinics are ensuring camels receive treatment quickly to prevent more serious conditions from developing. Through preventative measures, wound management and minor procedures like nose peg replacement, we’re also reducing pain and helping camels work more comfortably. Equally important is the change in attitude among camel owners. Thanks to our visits, many owners are adopting the welfare skills they have learnt, which creates a lasting impact beyond treatment alone.
How do you approach your work?
Camel welfare requires a holistic approach combining veterinary care, education and community trust. Sustainable change is only possible when owners are empowered with knowledge and supported with accessible services.
What inspires and motivates your team?
Our biggest motivation comes from seeing tangible improvements in the lives of camels and the trust built with their owners. The gratitude of owners, the successful recovery of their camels and knowing that our work prevents unnecessary suffering keeps the team committed, even while working in difficult conditions.
What is your proudest moment?
I always feel proud during our camel treatment camps. As soon as we arrive, camel owners surround us with warm smiles and genuine happiness. There’s a strong sense of trust and hope. Their faith and confidence are deeply fulfilling and continuously inspire us to work with even greater dedication.
What plans does your team have over the next few months?
Our team plans to continue regular mobile clinics to ensure uninterrupted veterinary care for working camels. We’ll also conduct community sessions to strengthen awareness of camel welfare among owners. These sessions include our puppet shows, which help us communicate key welfare messages in an engaging and culturally relevant way. In addition, our annual free camel treatment camps at the hugely popular Didwana and Pushkar camel fairs will provide essential veterinary care to many camels.
Do you have a message for Working Animals International supporters?
Thank you for standing with working animals and the communities that depend on them. Your support helps us reach camels who would otherwise have limited access to care. You also help us promote compassion where it’s most needed. Every contribution makes a real difference.
