Veterinarian Isuru resigns, unable to tolerate FB criticism for giving wrong dosages to Kavantissa

In the face of severe criticism and accusations created on social media following the unfortunate death of Kavanthissa the elephant, Wildlife Veterinary Surgeon Mr. Isuru Hewakottage has decided to step down from his duties at the North Western Wildlife Veterinary Unit. The continuous public criticism that arose after the death of Kavanthissa, who was receiving treatment under his care, severely impacted his professional as well as personal life, leading to this decision.

Dr. Hewakottage, who joined the Department of Wildlife Conservation in 2016, began his service in the Pandulagama area of Anuradhapura and later transferred to the Nikaweratiya Wildlife Unit. Since then, he has rendered invaluable service in saving the lives of many animals, including wild elephants and tuskers, in the North Western Wildlife region. Furthermore, he is a veterinarian with special expertise in rescuing sea turtles injured in the ocean, treating them, and releasing them back into the sea.

However, a strong public opinion was formed against him on social media, alleging that he failed to save the lives of famous elephants like Thekka Raja and Bhathiya, whom he had treated previously, and that Kavanthissa's death occurred due to a lack of proper care for the elephant, who was placed under his charge for the first time. Nevertheless, information revealed so far confirms that all treatments given to Kavanthissa the elephant were administered in accordance with the prescribed drug dosages.

Explaining the facts regarding this matter, Mr. Tharaka Prasad, retired Director of Wildlife Health and a veteran veterinary surgeon at the Department of Wildlife Conservation, points out that wildlife veterinarians never administer medication arbitrarily. He emphasizes that a veterinary surgeon only administers prescribed drug dosages according to relevant regulations and procedures, and that Dr. Isuru Hewakottage also provided treatment following the appropriate protocol.

Although he performed his duties with dedication, he has announced his withdrawal from the North Western Unit due to social media pressure. However, he has not yet officially notified the Department of Wildlife Conservation regarding his complete resignation from the department.