A sick baby elephant who has been rejected by his herd has lost interest in life until he meets a dog

After being rescued by Karen Trendler and the staff at Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage in South Africa, the odds were stacked against Ellie the baby elephant surviving. He was very unwell after being rejected by his herd.

The calf had septicemia and a big umbilical abscess. As his carers toiled around the clock to feed him, they discovered another problem: he was lactose intolerant. To keep this remarkable infant alive, the team worked around the clock.

Ellie survived, but elephants are sociable animals that require companionship. If Ellie was to survive, he’d need more than just his illness to be cured. Ellie was introduced to Duma, a German Shepherd, by the rescue group, and something extraordinary occurred.

Ellie has rekindled her enthusiasm in life, thanks to Duma!

Below is the complete story of Ellie and Duma.