I've recently returned from accompanying my husband on a business trip to Thailand, and I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket. They rescue older elephants from the logging and tourism industries and do so by directly purchasing the animals with charity funds. They currently have 8 elephants in their care, most of whom have health issues and/or injuries.
In Thailand, there are many opportunities to 'ride' an elephant. Please don't support this industry. Training involves breaking a very young animal's spirit and the process is quite abusive and horrific. Additional tactics to keep the elephants in line are also harmful and kept well-hidden from the public. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is one of several places trying to help these magnificent creatures.
To learn more, visit their website.
Here are some photos from my visit.
With love and thanks to the elephants for having us.
Great photos Kristy, and you get max Karma stars for caring about these beautiful creatures.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Terry!! :-)
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