Karen Dallakyan, president of the "Save Me" foundation and a leading veterinarian from Russia, has extensive experience in rescuing thousands of animals, many of whom suffered from serious injuries and required complex surgeries. He came to Bishkek as part of the volunteer program "Mission KINDNESS," where he performed several surgical procedures for animals at the "Zoo Bishkek" rehabilitation center, as well as examined them and shared his experience with local specialists.
One of the most complex surgeries was a procedure on a bird of prey that lasted more than an hour and a half. Due to the risks associated with transportation, the intervention was carried out on-site.
“When the surgery extends beyond an hour and a half, it causes additional concerns. We had to prolong the action of the anesthetics,” shared his impressions Karen Dallakyan.
According to him, the condition of the animals at the center was a pleasant surprise.
“I was pleasantly surprised that the animals are in good condition. I have a shelter for wild animals, and I often encounter the consequences of human cruelty: traps, problems arising in the circus industry. Here, I saw proper nutrition, care, and cleanliness, which are the keys to the health of animals in Bishkek,” he noted.
The veterinarian emphasized the importance of teamwork for the successful conduct of the operation. In Bishkek, he also met an old friend and classmate.
“After 35 years, I encountered a classmate who now teaches veterinary surgery. In collaboration with local specialists, we conducted the surgery in conditions close to field settings. Every minute was precious, as the fixation of the bird under anesthesia was in an unnatural position, which created stress on the respiratory system and heart. However, the result was successful: the bird was saved,” Dallakyan reported.
He added that three hours after the anesthesia, the bird began to recover.
“She started to drink and make sounds; eagles have a very peculiar 'bark.' We experienced these moments of joy together with the center's staff. When I came out of the operating room, everyone was waiting for my message, like relatives awaiting news about a loved one. Good deeds always end well. We can overcome any difficulties when we work together,” emphasized the veterinarian.
“All the animals that come to us have injuries. People bring them in; sometimes they are kept in domestic conditions and then surrendered. Most of those we can rehabilitate are returned to the wild. This is our main goal,” he explained.
Currently, the center houses about 300 animals and birds of more than 35 species. However, many of them cannot be returned to the wild.
“We have many birds of prey with damaged wings, as well as foxes and wolves with gunshot wounds. Unfortunately, some animals will never be able to return to their natural habitat,” added Shevchenko.
He also reported that two new birds were recently admitted to the center.
“We received a call on New Year's and were informed about a found sea eagle, which presumably flew into a car. It has multiple fractures, a damaged wing, and a shattered leg. The second bird was also brought in with a serious wing injury. The sea eagle has already been operated on, and now we will fight for its life. A long recovery process lies ahead,” explained the director.
According to him, the arrival of the Russian veterinarian was a significant support for the center.
“This happened very quickly. We contacted Rossotrudnichestvo, and they provided assistance. Then the Russian association 'Dobro.rf' joined our work, bringing in a specialist with extensive experience. Not many veterinarians take on such complex surgeries, especially when it comes to birds,” noted Shevchenko.
The center has already signed a memorandum of cooperation and plans to establish a continuous exchange of experience.
Deputy Head of the Rossotrudnichestvo Representative Office in Kyrgyzstan Anastasia Brailovskaya emphasized the importance of professional interaction.
“Experience exchange is very important for us. It is not only about helping rare and red-listed animals but also about recommendations for feeding and rehabilitation. The main task is not to leave animals in captivity but to treat, resocialize, and, if possible, return them to the wild,” she added.
“The first day shows that the surgeries were successful: the birds are alive, drinking, and eating. But there are still many days and weeks of observation and rehabilitation ahead,” concluded Brailovskaya.
Rossotrudnichestvo confirmed that the "Mission KINDNESS" program will continue in the future.
