Studies in Ancient Hindu Polity (Based on the Arthashastra of Kautilya), Vol. I c8.s4.1

c8.s4.1

As in the case of cows and horses, there were doctors employed to apply medicines to elephants suffering from diseases due to overwork, rut or old age. Their chief duties were, however, preventive in their character—taking care that the physical conditions surrounding the life of the elephants conformed strictly to the rules of hygiene and sanitation (गजशुद्धि). Failure to take the necessary steps for the health of elephants was punishable with fines. There was also inspection as regards the proper growth and harmonious development of all the parts of the body of an elephant. This was regulated according to several standards and types of its physical development.