Earlier this year I had the privilege to volunteer in Thailand with Isara Elephant Foundation for 6 months. This incredible charity works so hard to not only give elephants the retirement they deserve from the tourism industry, but also works closely with the surrounding community. Having witnessed first hand and being personally involved with this work, this cause is particularly special and close to my heart. The money raised will help to keep these elephants out in the jungle, where they can do what elephants do (which mostly involves eating all day and bringing down trees). It will also help provide a veterinary service to the village cats and dogs, allowing them access to preventative healthcare treatments and emergency care when needed. Isara is also involved with collecting research data, to further help us understand elephant behaviour and compare the exhibition of natural behaviours to those within tourist and riding camps. Volunteers help us to measure social and foraging behaviours, which also enables us to learn about the individual elephants and provide the best care possible.

Thailand has a long history with elephants, used in warfare, transport, logging and elephant tourism. When logging was banned elephant tourism began to increase and was able to capitalise on tourists’ desire to see, touch, and ride elephants. Despite being captive, these elephants are still large, dangerous wild animals, so pain and fear are often used to control elephants in order to keep tourists safe. Isara Elephant Foundation provides a sustainable, safe home for elephants to live a more natural life, and works within the community to provide education and an alternative livelihood  with reliable income for families. 

Thank you for your sponsors, and if you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to drop me a message!