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Ellenborough Lewis Koala Who Was Rescued From Bushfires Faces Uncertain Future

Ellenborough Lewis Koala Who Was Rescued From Bushfires Faces Uncertain Future

In an update Port Macquarie Koala Hospital said he is receiving 'around the clock care'

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

The adorable koala who was rescued from the devastating bushfires by a brave passerby is receiving 'around the clock care' as he faces an uncertain future.

The koala, who has been nicknamed Ellenborough Lewis in honour of the grandchild of the woman who rescued him, was taken to Port Macquarie Koala Hospital where he is being treated for the substantial burns he suffered.

Sharing an update on Facebook, the hospital wrote: "As we have had so many enquiries regarding Lewis please see the below:

"Ellenborough Lewis has burns to his hands, feet, arms and the inside of his legs. He is receiving substantial pain relief (as are all the other burnt koalas who require it, and some certainly don't), and he is in home care receiving 'round the clock care.

"Its early days yet for him, and with anyone who suffers burns human or animal, things can often get worse before they get better.

"Lewis at the moment is in the category of 'prognosis guarded' as in we are uncertain of his future. If we feel that his injuries and his pain are not treatable and tolerable, we will put him to sleep as this will be the kindest thing to do.

"At the Koala Hospital we do not keep koalas alive 'to save their lives' if this means pain and discomfort that is too much. We are all about animal welfare first and foremost.

"This is why Ellenborough Lewis is not available for adoption at this point in time.

"We will do what is best for Lewis and all the other koala patients. We are sure you understand and support us on this."

The little koala hit headlines after motorist Toni Doherty spotted him looking dazed and wandering back towards the bushfires.

Dozens of koala have been injured in the fires.
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

Without a moment's thought Toni whipped off her top, ran towards the little guy and used her top to help her pluck him from a tree and wrap him up.

She put out the flames using her own top and a bottle of water before wrapping him in a blanket and carrying him back to her car. What an absolute legend.

Dozens of injured koalas have been admitted to hospitals and vets following the fires.

The hospital has joined forces with a number of other organisations to launch a fundraiser, titled Help Thirsty Koalas Devastated By Recent Fires, which has received almost $1.5AUSD in under a month.

Here's hoping little Lewis and all the others get better soon.

Featured Image Credit: 9 News

Topics: Animals, Australia