Elephants go from horrific abuse to a life of joy at WildlifeSOS sanctuary

Elephants are among the most beautiful animals on the planet, but they are also one of the most abused animals. Exploited for their incredible strength, they have long been enslaved by those who used them for back breaking labour. Subjected to horrific torture to gain their submission, they are trained to carry heavy loads under dangerous and inhumane conditions. They are also used for entertainment, performances, and rides, allowing their keepers to make money from an ill-informed tourist industry.

Most tourists dream of having an opportunity to meet elephants up close. To look into their eyes and connect with them is a magical experience. Many even pay for the privilege of touching them, painting them, or riding on their backs. Social media is flooded with images of proud and happy people interacting with, or posing on top of these gentle souls. But what people are only recently beginning to understand is how unnatural this behaviour is for the elephants. Behind each trained and submissive elephant is a life of unspeakable torture and cruelty that breaks their spirit and causes them to endure the pain and anxiety that is inflicted on them each day for our amusement.

Organizations like WildlifeSOS.org are trying to change all of this. They have rescued many elephants from the cruelty and they provide them with a home that is free from pain and abuse. With ample grounds to roam and a generous supply of fresh food, it is a life that is as close as possible to what nature intended for these elephants. Sadly, they can never be returned to the wild because they would not survive on their own. WildlifeSOS provides veterinary care, nutrition, safety, and even surgeries and treatments for injuries sustained before their rescue.

These giants require tremendous amounts of food, considerable care, and medication on a daily basis. With more elephants being rescued, the facility needs to expand. WildlifeSOS is doing the difficult part of giving these broken souls a second chance. They need your help to continue. Please visit their website wildlifesos.org and consider doing a small part to help.

And when seeking a place to meet or see elephants up close, please boycott those who offer rides and harmful interactions. It is far more rewarding to see them in this environment and support those who are doing things right.