Elephants Were Never Meant to Live in Chains
For too long, elephants have been treated as mere spectacles—paraded around for human entertainment like circus props. It’s heartbreaking, and frankly, unacceptable.
But change is happening.
 |
| Save Elephant Foundation – มูลนิธิอนุรักษ์ช้างและสิ่งแวดล้อม / Facebook |
Today, let’s focus on that shift, even though Grandma Somboon’s story begins with heartbreak.
Somboon was stolen from the wild as a young calf and spent over 80 grueling years in forced labor—first in logging, then in tourism. Like many captive elephants, she endured unimaginable suffering. Separated from her young, she was made to perform in shows, beg on streets, and carry tourists on her back for hours on end. Day after day, year after year.
While the responsibility for this cruelty is complex, the role of tourism in sustaining it cannot be ignored.
Thankfully, in early 2024, the Save Elephant Foundation in Thailand learned of her situation—and knew they had to act.
“It’s time for Grandma to be cared for and allowed to rest,” they wrote on Facebook. “We’re on a rescue mission to bring Somboon to her true home.”
That mission succeeded. In January, at 87 years old, Grandma Somboon was finally rescued and brought to the Elephant Nature Park sanctuary.
She was in a fragile state—underweight, dehydrated, with poor skin and clouded eyes. She had lost a tooth and was clearly worn down by a lifetime of abuse. But for the first time in decades, she was safe.
 |
| Save Elephant Foundation – มูลนิธิอนุรักษ์ช้างและสิ่งแวดล้อม / Facebook |
Many rescued elephants take weeks before they feel secure enough to lie down. Not Somboon. Utterly exhausted from her journey and a lifetime of suffering, she immediately sought out a soft sand pile and lay down to sleep—undisturbed by the bustle around her.
Having spent nearly her entire life on her feet, her first instinct was to finally rest.
Older elephants, especially those with weakened joints, cannot sleep properly when shackled to concrete floors. It’s no wonder that Somboon took the opportunity to finally relax. Caregivers even had trouble waking her from her deep, well-earned slumber.
 |
| Save Elephant Foundation – มูลนิธิอนุรักษ์ช้างและสิ่งแวดล้อม / Facebook |
Getting up again was a challenge, but she did it.
There was uncertainty about how she would adapt, but she’s been making remarkable progress. At the sanctuary, every elephant is given attentive care—nutritious food, fresh water, and cozy sand beds to rest on.
 |
| Save Elephant Foundation – มูลนิธิอนุรักษ์ช้างและสิ่งแวดล้อม / Facebook |
Somboon still needs plenty of support, but she’s improving every day. And more importantly, she’s finally free from pain, labor, and exploitation. She’s receiving the dignity and compassion she was denied for so long.
As she continues her healing journey at Elephant Nature Park, Somboon’s story stands as a powerful testament to the strength and spirit of these majestic animals.
 |
| Save Elephant Foundation – มูลนิธิอนุรักษ์ช้างและสิ่งแวดล้อม / Facebook |
Despite all she has endured, she’s found peace.
To learn more about how you can support elephants like Somboon, visit the Save Elephant Foundation and explore their life-changing work.
Post a Comment