At the camel market in Birqash near Cairo, Omar and Eslam - our local vet team - meet the responsible authorities today. The conversation gives hope, as the officials confirm that the government wants to get a grip on the animal welfare problems at the market by regular control and monitoring and improve the market's infrastructure.
But when the first transports of camels arrive from Sudan at two o'clock in the morning, hope is quickly shattered: several trucks are transporting camels that have been slaughtered on the way because they could not withstand the stresses and strains of transport, while others are completely exhausted and can barely get up.
Omar and Eslam work through the night to relieve suffering and treat wounds. We have the greatest respect for the two young vets who work so hard for the camels.
