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Elephant Care - Thailand - Volunteer reviews
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Charlotte – 2012
“Thailand was an amazing experience, working with the elephants and being that close was very special. I had great fun watching how quick and clever they were when it was time for enrichments and swimming with them was great fun. I would definitely go back as all in all it was a great experience and it has made me want to help out even more.
Typical day: Up at 6am, start work 6.30 feed so chopping banana plants, breakfast about 7.30/8, 9am projects (in my case harvest), lunch at 12, feed at 2, then a final feed at 4/4.30 and much needed shower after that, dinner at 7pm.
Most rewarding part of the project: being able to get so close to the elephants and being able to swim with them.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Do it, you won't regret it, amazing experience, gives you the travelling bug.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Great experience, something you can do on your own as there are so many other people volunteering from around the world, great way to meet new people.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Sounded like the best placements, very useful contacts easy to talk to over the phone, very helpful. Yes I would recommend them.”
Amy – 2012
“The trip was absolutely amazing and I really didn't want to come home! There was some hard work involved but the perks 100% made up for it and the contact with the elephants was amazing! I have no negative comments to make whatsoever! It was great to meet so many new people and animals!
A typical day would involve attending to the elephants four times a day- feeding, cleaning up etc and sometimes going out to harvest banana trees for the elephants food. All meals are eaten together which is really sociable.
Most rewarding part of the project: The best parts were that your hard work pays off...for example swimming in the lake with one of the elephants!
Most challenging part of the project: The most challenging part was probably watching the dvd about what happens to the elephants before they are rescued because there is so much abuse that goes on that most people just don't know about. It's hard knowing that a lot of that happened to the elephants you are looking after...but it's good to know they have a better life now and more people need to know what goes on as it really is awful.
My advice to others considering this placement would be to do it!! But go with an open mind and be prepared to do the hard work as well.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Places like the elephant centre would struggle to keep going without the help of volunteers. And from a volunteer's point of view it is an amazing experience to do and see things you wouldn't normally and to meet so many people from different walks of life.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Basically because when I was trawling the internet looking for opportunities to volunteer I thought the PoD website was the most informative and well designed and the trips seemed to be good value for money. Also the staff were really helpful and answered any questions I had. Yes, I would recommend PoD to others.
Thanks for your help with everything, and for the returning volunteer discount offer. I will definitely be looking to book another volunteering trip in the future.”
Suzy – 2011
“I did the Elephant Care program in Thailand. It was an amazing experience. Some days the work was challenging but very rewarding. It was overall a very welcoming and positive time. I felt very comfortable and at ease. The staff members are very accommodating and most friendly and understanding. The work carried out is very rewarding and by far the best was the education I received about Elephant welfare. I came out completely renewed and knowledgeable about the need for animal rescue. I recommend this program to all. They need the support from volunteers and what u get from the experience is priceless!
A typical day: Get up 6am. Be ready for work at 6.30. The tasks set take about an hour. (It’s equivalent to having that morning run, gym session etc) then breakfast at 7.30am. The working day doesn’t begin until 9am so breakfast is leisurely and it’s plenty of time to prep for the day. Then at 9 u begin set tasks, cleaning, feeding, harvest trips which can be tough but fun. There is plenty of time at lunchtime as well to relax enjoy the prepared food (which is very good) and then prep for afternoon tasks. Finish time is between 5 and 5.30pm and can on occasion be earlier if all tasks are met. There are periods of downtime here and there where u can do domestic tasks if u plan well. Dinner is at 7 and it’s a nice time catching up with everyone and talking about the days events.
Most rewarding for me is of course the hands on time with the beautiful gentle giants but equally rewarding was the education I received.
Most challenging part of the project: I struggled with some of the physical work but in saying that the challenge of it was very empowering. I really felt like I was making a difference because I doing work that was very necessary.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? I would highly recommend this particular Elephant Care program. It is set in a very beautiful area.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Anyone who has considered volunteering should definitely set wheels in motion and make it happen. Once you get involved you realise how valid and how important the work being done is. It opens your eyes to the importance of volunteer programs.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? I recommend PoD absolutely. I will definitely go through PoD again in the future.”
Hannah – 2011
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Thailand, it was an experience of a lifetime, although I definitely want go on and do more work like this. You will learn about the Thai lifestyle the environment and culture of the country. But most importantly about the elephants and other animals in the Centre. This is something you can do with friends or on your own as I did because you soon make friends for life from all over the world when you are there.
Typical day: Long and tiring days due to the heat and hard work but very rewarding at the end of the day. Get up at 6 am to be ready in your role for that day by 6.30. Feed and clean up the elephant enclosures before breakfast. Then one person would stay and care and feed two of the elephants who needed extra care while the rest of the team would go harvesting for a few hours. On return we had lunch after which we would do more cleaning, the mahouts would have fed the bananas and pineapples to the elephants. We would then take the elephants for baths or walks where they could forage in the jungle for themselves to give the elephants variety. At 3pm every day the vet would arrive to clean out all the cysts on the elephants with iodine then spray the area with antiseptic spray and treat any other injuries as necessary. Part of the day we would provide enrichment for the elephants hiding fruit high in a tree for example. The day would usually finish about 6 pm unless you had another duty like dog duty. Tea was at 7 pm with free time after if you wanted to walk to the village for example.
Most rewarding part of the project: Knowing I had helped out with the project and made some difference to the animals’ lives it felt as though they had trust and respect in you even though they had been mistreated before being rescued.
Most challenging part of the project: Harvesting banana trees and pineapple trees in the heat.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Make sure it is something you really want to do as some people thought it would be a petting animal experience and were not at all prepared for the living conditions, insects and the hard work that goes into making this a worthwhile experience.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? To help out where animals have been mistreated as it makes such a huge difference to the animals and the reserves that are trying to save them.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? PoD seemed to be well run. The website was very informative with well informed people to contact with any queries prior to you making a decision. They were honest about the conditions and work involved. I would definitely recommend to a friend and use again myself if I am lucky enough to have the opportunity. I definitely would go again and admire the dedication of the centre staff particularly the manager Edwin, and would like to thank him for supporting me in the first few days helping me to find my feet. He gave me a better understanding of the culture that leads to the need for rescue centres and understanding the elephants themselves and how to care for them."
Rachel – 2011
“I had an amazing experience with the elephants, one that I will remember for the rest of my life. I grew very attached with them and enjoyed every minute of working at the centre. Something I would highly recommend and would love to do again.
Typical day: Wake up at 6am, ready to start work at 6.30am. Feed the elephants plant food and check they have water, depending on the elephant prepare an enrichment or fruit. 9am special project which could be harvesting banana trees or moving compost. Elephants will get walked at some point and vet treatment too. There will be a break for lunch and other breaks if you are finished early. Finish between 4-5.30pm.
Most rewarding part of the project: Finishing a hard day of work.
Most challenging part of the project: The banana tree harvest as it was hard work in the heat!
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Work hard, make friends and have fun!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? It is an amazing experience as you get to work with elephants and make lots of new friends from different countries.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? My friend found PoD and yes I would recommend as you're here for support and I felt I could ask any questions.”
Sarah – 2011
“The elephant sanctuary was amazing! Has such a fun time and I've taken away some great memories and made some really good friends. Would really love to do something similar again in the future.
Typical day: 6.30am Water, feed and clean out the elephants 7.30am Breakfast 9.00am Harvest food for elephants, hard work but very rewarding! 12.00am Lunch 1.00pm onwards, walk and wash elephants, feed, help assist vet with treatment, make an enrichment toy, general care of elephants 5.00pm Shower and rest! 7.00pm Evening meal
Most rewarding part of the project: I loved doing harvests! Never sweated so much in my life but its all worth it when you see a full truck of plants and a happy elephant at the end of it.
Most challenging part of the project: The hours can be long and so it’s easy to become tired. But the work is fun which makes up for it!
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Be prepared to work hard. The harder you work the more rewarding the experience will be.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? It’s a great way to meet new people and to give something back to another country whilst visiting it. You get to interact with the local people who respect you so much more for helping them.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Very helpful and organised company.”
Rebecca – 2011
“Everything went really well on the project. I had such a fantastic time I didn't want to come home and wished I could have stayed longer. We had pretty good weather too :)
Typical day: Starting at 6.30am we fed the elephants, changed their water and did a clean up of their enclosure. 8-9am was breakfast time. The morning from 9-12 was spent with the elephants doing a variety of things including preparing food (chopping and peeling fruit for the ones that needed it), giving the elephants water, making toys and enrichments for them and sometimes taking them for a walk. Every other day was harvest day and on these days we spent the morning after breakfast going out to harvest. This was either banana plants, corn or pineapple depending on the needs of the centre. Lunch was 12-1. The time after lunch was spent doing much the same as the morning. More food and water, cleaning the enclosures, taking the elephants for a walk if they didn't do it in the morning. Some of the elephants needed washing and scrubbing down every day for the vets visit. In the morning and afternoon sessions any spare time was spent doing 'special projects'. This varied depending on the needs of the centre and included painting new enclosure and composting (where the compost was moved from the centre out into the forest.
Most rewarding part of the project: Just being able to help out with the elephants and give them a happy life. Also spending time and close contact with such an amazing creature.
Most challenging part of the project: Harvesting in the really hot temperatures
What advice would you give to others considering this project? It is an amazing experience and I would definitely recommend it. The work is hard but rewarding and you get to spend so much time with the elephants. Be prepared to do hard work whatever the weather and to get very dirty!!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? It is such an amazing experience, one you will never forget
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? PoD was the best value for money placement we found while searching for volunteer work. Yes I would recommend PoD to others”
Phoebe – 2011
"My time at the wildlife centre was really really amazing. It was very hard work too, but 100% worth it. I enjoyed every minute of it, and you never quite get used to the fact that you're actually standing next to a real elephant! This project exceeded all my expectations and it really is such a great thing to do. I was only there for 3 weeks and I felt so settled and I was having so much fun I didn't want to leave. Not only are the animals amazing but you meet some great people from all around the world which is also really great.
Typical day would be wake up as late as possible (my alarm was set for 6.16,4 minute snooze and then get ready in ten minutes!) to meet in the volunteer house at 6.30. Everyone then looks at the rota for the day to see who they will be working with and which elephants they are assigned to for that day. You may also have other duties such as Sam the horse and House duty which everyone takes turns in doing. Lunch is at 12 and hopefully the ice cream man will come! Once the working day is done you can either go down to the village for some beers and a look round the few shops. There's also a night market on Sunday nights and that's really good for getting some work clothes that are going to get very dirty so don't buy anything nice. On your days off you can plan trips to nearby towns and villages and even stay there overnight. You can also arrange to have your days off with other people too. Everyone normally goes to bed at different times depending on how knackered you are on that day!
Most rewarding part of the project: I found the journey home from the harvests the most rewarding part of the experience. You ride back with the wind in your hair, on the huge truck full up to the top of banana trees and you think, yes I did this! It feels really good!
Most challenging part of the project: I found the harvests the most challenging. It’s SO hot and you get SO dirty and SO smelly! But you just get stuck in and get on with it and then its over before you know it. Don't let the harvests put you off because when you're with good people and you've got a bit of music to help you along it goes very quickly! And you just have to remember why you're doing it :)
What advice would you give to others considering this project? DO IT!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Volunteering abroad is so fantastic because you are 100% out of your comfort zone. You learn a lot quickly about things you never knew anything about, and also about yourself. I have gained a lot more self confidence from volunteering in Thailand because you have to trust yourself and your own judgements more. You also get to learn about a whole new culture and way of life whilst doing something worthwhile and not just being on a holiday.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? I would and already have recommended PoD to others! I chose PoD because I thought the price was very reasonable and it seemed like a great organisation."
Rebecca – 2011
“This project is the most different experience I've ever had. From travelling by myself, dealing with bugs, physically pushing myself and of course being so close to the elephants. I felt tired and dirty a lot of the time, but I wouldn't change a thing about the whole trip! It's sad to hear about what has happened to these animals previously. Being part of giving them a better life now is what pushes you along. The project is a worthy cause and the experience is one that I'll never forget. I wish the centre every success for the future and would one day like to make a return visit.
Typical day: Lots of cleaning, food prep and feeding. Maybe a harvest (a tough job, but good exercise). A walk with an elephant, helping to scrub the elephant and other duties around the centre.
Most rewarding part of the project: Being with the elephant in the jungle watching them in a natural environment.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Embrace the whole experience. The good, the tough and the mucky!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? To enhance your outlook on life, meet new people and contribute to worthwhile causes.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? PoD had the ideal short-term project for me and yes I would recommend them for peace of mind if it's your first time doing this sort of thing. I found Erin prompt in her responses and informative.”
Farzana – 2011
“How’s it going at the project? It’s been pretty awesome so far and you get stuck right in! I have been working with a lead on the five elephants at the centre and a new elephant arrives tomorrow too which is exciting. The centre is amazing and I hadn’t realised the scope of what Edwin and his on site team do to rescue and rehabilitate various animals. I am working with two elephants tomorrow Soon Boon and Kan Kluey and I think Pai-Lin on Thursday. It has been an experience!
Typical day: Working with the elephants starts at 06:30 with enrichments, cleaning their enclosures and either banana harvest or pineapple harvest. Depending on which elephant you are working with for that day, you may take them for a walk (June/Bua-Ngun or Pai-Lin) and also give them a bath: Bua-Ngun or Pai-Lin. Regular feeding times as well as a second enclosure clean before the day ends at 17:00.
Most rewarding part of the project: Giving Bua-Ngun her baths! She loves bath times and would use her trunk to give me a bath at the same time.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Life experience!
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Good reputation and yes definitely!”
Belinda – 2011
I had a brilliant time. It was hard work at times, gathering food out on the harvests, but was very rewarding and really good fun working in our teams. Working so closely with the elephants was really something quite special. I got very close to both the elephants and the people I worked with and didn’t want to leave! The days were long, but there was plenty of time to relax, go for a walk, read a book, so for me, the balance of work and leisure was just right, and you could always help out with extra duties.
Holly – 2010
Overall the placement was really good and thoroughly enjoyed my time. I only stayed a week at the centre but it’s given me a lifetime of memories. I must admit the accommodation (and in particular the bathroom!) took a little getting used to but I think that was probably because I am more used to my creature comforts than I thought I was, that said after a couple of days I got used to the cold water and cleaning my teeth in the shower! The week itself was thoroughly enjoyable and the people that were "on elephants" tend to only be there for a short amount of time so there is a close bond between you all as everyone is making the most of their time. Each day you are given an elephant to look after, along with at least one other person (who has done it before and shows you the ropes). Unlike the wildlife volunteers (also based at the same centre) the jobs that need to be done for the elephants are quite straightforward so its easy to pick up and very soon you might find yourself showing someone else how its done. The harvests that people refer to (where you go to chop, lift, drag the likes of palm trees/leave, sugar cane and corn) is quite hard labour but when you all muck in it doesn’t last too long (especially if you have a few strong boys with you to help! You certainly feel as though you’re burning some calories when you do it and most importantly you know how much the elephants will appreciate it when they see you come back with a whole load of food. Speaking of food, our meals really were delicious. Maybe you would get fed up with rice if you were there for many weeks but i thought it was excellent, and there is always the ice cream man who pitches up just outside the centre after lunch if you fancy a treat. Although there are some times of the day (depending on which elephant you are looking after) when you have not got anything that you should be doing, it is such a lovely centre to be located in with so many different animals it is just lovely to walk around the wildlife centre, or even the lake (where the gibbons live on the island). There is not a great deal to do in the evening other than walk into the local village or play cards/watch films in the centre. At least once a week there is some form of activity whether that is a trip out or what we had - a quiz, but if you just want to have quiet time (or even go to bed from your tiring day) then that is also fine. The guys that own it, and manage it are really friendly and genuinely care about the animals and you! I was really impressed with how they combined professionalism - there are rules where animals are concerned! and fun loving nature to make the time I spent there so fulfilling. Even in just a week I really felt as though I bonded with the elephants particularly June -the very old lady, who I looked after on a number of occasions. Each of them have their own personalities and to think what they have been through prior to being rescued but yet they can be so gentle towards humans now really is quite amazing. So, final things to say (as i could go on forever!) is if you are considering this as something to do even if it is just for a week - DO IT! Those elephants will live in your heart forever and it was one of the best things I have ever done, despite leaving my husband at home!
Typical day: up early (6.00), check which elephant you’re looking after, depending on this you will either be feeding, watering, collecting, cleaning or maybe all 4. Back to the kitchen to make your own breakfast (toast, fruit, eggs etc) before either a harvest or making toys for the elephants to play with (NB we spent about an hour making this really complex food toy out of tyres and it lasted with the elephants about 10 seconds - no matter how hard you make getting the food – they’ll get it pretty easily!!) Some more watering, feeding, showering the elephants before lunch, then off to the lake to wash the elephants, and clean their enclosures before walking some of them back to the forest.
Most rewarding part of the project: knowing that you are making the elephants; lives better after what terrible things they have been through.
Most challenging part of the project: mentally - the bathroom and the toad in my boot! Physically chopping down weeds as tall as me, so the little trees would survive next to the elephants enclosure to provide them with some shade (we all joked that it was just like community service!)
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Do it!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Not only are you helping the elephants and a very worthwhile cause, but you’ll be doing something totally different for yourself which you’ll always remember and feel proud of being a part of.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Definitely I was very impressed with PoD and would not hesitate to recommend them to others
Nicky & Dave – 2010
"We have just finished our week. We are both tired and dirty, but both loved it, and wish to thank you and the centre for the opportunity to help.
The meet and greet on site was excellent and helped us to settle in quickly. By the end of one week the two of us we were caring for two elephants, which to us are truly exotic species, without any supervision. This was a very special opportunity and I feel fortunate to have participated.
What did you find most rewarding? Hand feeding an animal 70 times my body weight.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? If you are scared of hard work, and of being constantly grubby, this is not for you.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Because taking a year out to bum on a beach does not teach you anything useful about yourself.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? The communications and response from PoD was excellent."
Mikaela – 2010
"I'm having a really nice time at the centre! The weather is really hot and humid- much different from Scotland but its worth it to see the elephants! Thanks again!
I had the most amazing time at the centre. Being within touching distance of an elephant was very surreal but such a wonderful opportunity. The days are long and tough but the work is extremely rewarding and the elephants always appreciate new banana trees from harvest! I was only meant to stay 2 weeks but stayed a week longer on wildlife as I loved it so much. The people at the centre have such good hearts- just go, you won't regret it!
Typical day: Feeding, cleaning out poo and food leftovers, feeding, cleaning, walking san the horse, enrichment making, bathing pai Lin and more cleaning poo!
What did you find most rewarding? Sitting on the truck after a full harvest
What did you find most challenging? The harvest, expect to be one hot sweaty betty
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Get over your fear of spiders! Bring nice clothes as well as kicking out ones, ipod speakers always good
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Help what we can and make a difference in the way Thai animals ate treated because of tourism. We just need to educate people a little as were fortunate enough to have this from a young age.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Reasonable price, good ethic, believe in what the do, yes I would recommend them"
Kristy – 2010
"Typical day: wake up and go do morning duties - clean enclosure and feed elephant/s our breakfast morning project - eg rock picking, poo/plant clearing, harvest feed elephants water elephants enrichment our lunch water elephants feed elephants special project - 'as above' clean enclosure, feed elephants any volunteer duties if you are on the list - eg rubbish, dog duty shower and ready for dinner our dinner socialise/relax/activity eg night out
What did you find most rewarding? caring for the elephants in a way they deserve especially after everything they've been through. Also knowing your money is going to a worthwhile cause.
What did you find most challenging? the mosquitoes
What advice would you give to others considering this project? know why you're going and that it is not simply a social experience, you are predominately there to care for these animals
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? - great experience - new country and culture - new friends - outside of the norm – fun
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? - offered great placements - pretty good economically yes, would recommend to others"
Magda – 2010
"I have had an amazing time and I have many very special moments to remember. Just wanted to thank you for a very good customer service. It felt like you were there just for me/us. Thanks again!!
Typical day: Worked from at 630-17 or later. Occasionally hard physical work (banana trees harvest). Feeding and giving water to the elephants. Walk them to the forest, bathing the elephants. Other house duties.
What did you find most rewarding? Feeding elephants and being so close to such a big, majestic yet very gentle animals
What did you find most challenging? Occasionally the heat, insects.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? If you enoy being with animals and would like to expirience a different culture do it
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? This is one way how you can support the centre and keep it going as well as personal satisfaction.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Recommended by friend who I travelled with and yes I would recommend PoD."
Jo – 2010
"This was an amazing experience for me as I care about animals very much. I met some wonderful people and it was a dream come true caring for elephants. The accommodation was very basic and I needed to buy more clothes when I got there as you had to wear shorts to yours knees or trousers because the Thai people do not like people wearing shorts or short skirts and have your shoulders covered which is difficult when it is so hot and humid. Also, welly boots are a must because you get very wet and muddy from washing the elephants and cleaning the enclosures. I didn't realise I would be so emotionally upset when I left the sanctuary after just a week. I feel that I was just getting to know the routines and the people and I have definitely bonded with the animals. I cried for 4 hours solid when I left and felt like my heart had been ripped out. I guess if you stay longer the bonds develop and you are ready to leave which I wasn't.
Typical day: Get up at 6am! Start work at 6.30am cleaning the enclosure, proving food and fresh water. Breakfast, providing food and fresh water, special project (moving rocks or something of that nature), lunch, providing food and fresh water, making enhancement and toy, special project, cleaning enclosure, providing food and fresh water
What did you find most rewarding? Being able to touch and hug the elephants. Seeing them eat and drink the fresh water I have just given them. Knowing that they are happy now and being cared for.
What did you find most challenging? The heat!
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Take long shorts and boots or wellies - and plenty of bug spray!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? Because it is an amazing experience and it gives us chance to help a less fortunate country
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? I chose POD because I could tailor my package and they supported me 24/7"
Sophie – 2010
"A very brief week that raced by far too quickly, but despite that, it was an amazing and extremely rewarding experience. The unique sights, sounds and smells (with the exception of Somboon's flatulence!) will stay with me forever, along with what I learnt about the elephants from those at the centre and by simply being so near them - a privilege indeed. Knowing that all the hard work (harvest, tree maintenance, clearing the enclosures, etc) was contributing to improving the lives of these rescued animals was so rewarding. But it wasn't all hard work as bath times with Soy Thong, Nam Phon and Kjaew Ta were the best bath times EVER, and as weird as it sounds now back in the UK, picking up dung with bare hands isn't that bad. It was a truly wonderful week that has just cemented my lifelong love for the gentle giants
Typical day: We were awake at 6am for a 6.30am start of feeding whichever elephant(s) you were caring for that day...maybe including picking up the mahouts own elephants from the jungle, or preparing June's special soft fruit diet breakfast. The rest of the day was spent doing lots of watering (straight into their trunks with a hose!), feeding and making up enrichments (e.g. wrapping fruit in tyres and netting and/or hiding it around the enclosures). The real hard labour was after breakfast when we either went off to do 'harvest' (collecting and lugging either banana or corn to the mahouts trucks) or 'tree maintenance' (for our week this was some major clearing of ant infested grass and weeds - so just a few bites!). The end of the day was always spent clearing the enclosures which roughly translates as picking up huge mounds of dung as well as raking up the leftover food....oh, and taking a boat into the 'bath' to collect bath time dung. All worthwhile knowing who you're doing it for! R&R before and after dinner was a chance to meet/catch up with other volunteers and/or pop into town for some creature comforts (mine was chocolate milk!), but it was never a late night with such early starts and tiring days. All in all, a physically tiring but emotionally rewarding week.
What did you find most rewarding? Just spending so much time with the 'gentle giants'....amazing creatures of great enormity and also great gentleness, each with their own unique, wonderful characteristics and behaviours that you just can't help fall in love!
What did you find most challenging? Coping with the ant and mosquito bites (despite enormous volumes of repellent used)! VERY hard not to scratch!
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Just be prepared for being absolutely filthy and very hot for the majority of the time.....oh and LOADS of repellent!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? For the combination of unique experiences that you can't get elsewhere and giving something back to communities/animals - very rewarding.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? We made a very late decision to make the trip and it was PoD who had the availability in the project we wanted to do. That said, I would definitely recommend PoD to others."
Abi – 2010
"I ABSOLUTELY loved my time working with elephants, I’m considering going back summer 2011 after uni to stay for much longer :)
I dont really know anything helpful to put because it was all FAB! I nearly cried when I left and I was only there for one week!!! It was great! The centre were so welcoming and the staff are all great fun. The food was brilliant as well, so much choice, even for vegans! (plenty of fruit too:)
Typical day: Wake up around 6ish, have a bit of breakkie then head off to the elephants (there’s 3 different areas) that your assigned to that day, feed them the plants that are there and wash them with a hose! then that day there’s usually a specific task to do (e.g harvest which can be hard work but i really enjoyed it- beautiful scenery and a truck/tractor ride there and back-really fun) I also did a lot of tree planting in this time, then the elephants are fed again around 11.30 :) After that you’re really sweaty so get a shower then lunch (yummy) In the afternoon there is also another task to do as well as washing the elephants (one area have a lake you can swim in with them) and then there’s the walk back to the jungle for some elephants which is always fun because there’s a naughty baby elephant :) after that its nice to walk around the wildlife centre and look at all the other animals:) dinners usually around 6 :) also for the elephants with the lake, you can out fruit on a raft and watch them swim out to it- they’re more clever than you think!!
What did you find most rewarding? Knowing how all the elephants (and the other wildlife) were treated before they had come to the centre and to see how happy they are now, a lot of them were close the death and now they're having a great time with all the staff and volunteers at the centre!
What did you find most challenging? Coming back home!
What advice would you give to others considering this project? Take lots of clothes that cover your shoulders and knees and good trainers... all that you don’t care about getting dirty!
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? It's soooo much fun and i found it so rewarding- absolutely I would go back to the Friends of wildlife centre, I would change a thing about my time there! Its great to meet new people who are interested in the same thing too!
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? Yes, already have recommended PoD to others, when I compared prices with others, it was the cheapest and most of their money goes to the projects- unlike other companies!"
Jane – 2010
"It was a very special experience to be able to work so closely with the beautiful elephants. Although they are large animals, they are very gentle and very trusting. There were 8 elephants at the sanctuary when I was there and each one has it's own character. A couple of the elephants were lovely old ladies who were over 70 years old - they looked very wise and they were both quite cheeky. It was a real privilege being able to look after them. The sanctuary is in a beautiful setting with many other animals who are resident there, including monkeys, otters, and bears.
Typical day: You would be ready for work at 6.30am, when you would go to the elephant compound to work with whichever elephant you were rostered on for that day. You would freshen up there water and clean out their compound and give them their first feed for the day. You would then have breakfast to get your strength up for going on a harvest. This meant getting in a ute and driving to a local farm and harvesting either banana leaves or corn stalks. It is hot sweaty work, but a good chance for your team to bond. Once the ute is full, we get driven back to the compound and share out the harvest between the different elephants. Late morning some of the elephants have a bath from the hosepipe if they want one, and some fruit. After lunch three of the elephants have a swim in their lake, then we walked them into the forest where they spent the evening and the night, that was always an enjoyable part of the day. Late afternoon would then mean the last feed and water of the day. TIme for a well needed shower, then dinner then your evenings are free. Sometimes we would go into Hua Hin or Cha Am for a night out, which was fun.
What did you find most rewarding? Building a connection with the elephants, getting their trust and being able to spend one on one time with them.
What did you find most challenging? The first harvest was pretty tough, but once we got a system going it worked much better.
What advice would you give to others considering this project? To go ahead and do it- it was so different to just lying on a beach or spending time doing things for yourself. Helping to look after the elephants was a very rewarding and fulfilling experience.
Why do you think others should volunteer abroad? It is interesting to meet people from all over the world who are also interested in conservation. You learn a lot about yourself, your abilities, how to live out of your comfort zone, what is important and not important.
Why did you choose PoD and would you recommend them? All of the information I received from PoD was incredibly detailed and helpful. All of my emails were answered very quickly, I flet that I was well looked after, that the programme was ethically sound and more than I hoped for. I would definitely recommend this company."
Jennifer - 2010
“I spent two weeks out in Thailand and it was the best two weeks of my life and to think I nearly wasn’t going to book it and looking back now I am so glad I did. It was such a fantastic place, full of variety and a perfect place to meet such fantastic people, all with the same vision as you and all with the same sort of reasons for coming out to volunteer :) it was such an amazing experience getting that up close and personal with the elephants, they are beautiful creatures. Just from working at the wildlife rescue centre for two weeks it completely changed my outlook on rescued animals and it gave a first hand experience of some of the things that these animals went through , it has made me more aware and definitely interested in more wildlife volunteering based around rescued animals, if you are thinking of doing this program it is well worth it, such a valuable experience and so much fun as well.
Top tips: make sure you take many changes of clothes, buy your mozzy spray when you get there, much cheaper and more effective, just make the most of every opportunity as the time just flies by and you don’t want to miss a thing.
I chose PoD because i wanted a hands on volunteering experience and having looked at lots of companies this one had the right program for me.”
Louise - 2010
“This is an amazing opportunity to make an immediate different to animals that have been abused or injured and see first-hand the impact on the treatment of animals, especially monkeys and elephants, in Thailand. Give food to monkeys, bath the elephants, talk to a parrot or clean out the toucan cage; there is so much to be done at the centre, you will never be bored. I came home with some amazing stories to tell and lots of new skills.
A typical day: 6.30am everyone meets in the volunteer house and starts work by either cleaning out cages or preparing food, everyone then feeds and waters their assigned animals and then we have breakfast around 8am. Cleaning, making enrichments or similar activities are done until lunch which is a Thai food buffet-style, then more food prep and feeding the animals. The elephants are bathed and walked to their nightspot. Dinner is a 7pm and similar to lunch in buffet-style, all Thai food and really good. Volunteers spend lots of time socialising in the volunteer house, chatting, playing cards or sometimes watching a movie. There are opportunities to swim in the river in the village or get snacks/beers.
It was an amazing experience to be helping animals to be released back into the wild and it teaches you to be able to work hard under difficult conditions.
Top tips: Be ready to be very flexible and willing to work very hard, it makes the challenging things easier, making friends on the placement is essential to enjoying it.
PoD are really helpful in organising the travel and giving advice about the centre, I wouldn't have considered this project without PoD's help. Thank you!”
Caroline - 2010
“Had a fantastic time working with the elephants, each had its own personality and even after just a week you feel you've made some big grey friends. The days work is hard but the feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day is well worth it. You make some fantastic friends at the centre as everyone is there because of a passion for animals. The memories I have of the sanctuary will definitely stand out for a lifetime as an amazing experience.
Early start in the morning feeding and cleaning out the enclosures, cleaning and filling the water bowl of the elephants you've been assigned for the day. Every other day you go on a harvest, picking and loading pineapple plants into a truck, its hot and hard work, but with good teamwork it can be done quickly and then you go back to feed the elephants and then its lunch time. On the days without a harvest you do work around the centre, when I was there we planted and maintained trees around some of the elephants enclosures. After lunch you go and spray the elephants from a hose to cool them down and let them have a drink out of the hose if they want. Cleaning out the leftover food from before. At the end of the days work after you have cleaned out the old food again and picked up the poo, the mahout elephants go for a swim and you can go in the water with them and clean them. After they have been cleaned everyone walks with the mahouts to take the elephants into the forest where they spend the night. The walk can be long and is hot so take some water with you. If your lucky you can take a ride in the poo canoe, the water where the elephants swim needs to be cleaned of elephant poo!
The most rewarding part of the project for me was seeing the elephants up close and even having some hands on experience with these massive creatures that I had only ever seen on TV and in books. Seeing them in real life you get to appreciate each of their characters and how amazing they really are.
The most challenging part of the project I found was the harvest. It was very physically demanding and the heat drains a lot of energy from you. It needs to be done though and the feeling of accomplishment at the end is well worth the effort.
It's definitely a fantastic experience and I would recommend it to everyone with a passion for animals and a good work ethic. Not one for those who don't want to do any physical work.
I chose PoD because it was recommended to me. PoD made our trip easy and were really helpful. Any questions we had Beth answered for us and was always willing to give useful advice.”
Fern - 2010
“I had an awesome time in Thailand on the elephant care program. I made some amazing friends and has so many great experiences. Watching the elephants walk towards me from the forest was one of the most breath taking times of my life!! I fell in love with all of the elephants and the other animals at the centre! It was hard work but so rewarding! It you are thinking about it GO FOR IT!!! you wont regret it!! My only regret is that I couldn’t stay any longer, but I will definately be going back next year!!!! :)
Seeing how much the elephants appreciate you in the most rewarding. Understanding what the elephants had been through was soo upsetting I cried most days to hear about the things the animals had been through!! but they are being pampered now and that’s great!!
Harvest was very hard work!! every other day we would spend about 2-3 hours cutting down and stacking pineapple leaves (which are very heavy and spiky) however I had a great sense of team work and we were doing it all for the elephants who deserved it so much.”
Gareth - 2010
“When I first found out about project all the reviews said 2 weeks was not enough here. After my 2 week stay, all I can say as well is 2 weeks is not enough! The staff and volunteers made this a great place to be whilst doing something very worthwhile. I hope the Centre continues to grow and rescue many more animals so they can live happily. Thanks to everyone here, hopefully our paths will cross again.
I found POD via Responsibletravel.com who I found to be recommended in the Telegraph news paper. I would recommend one of trips to others.
I'm already considering revisiting the centre next year!”
Emily - 2010
“The project overall was fantastic. I applied for elephant care but did not expect to be living in the middle of the rescue centre with all other fantastic animals around me. This made the experience so much more worth while as I got to learn about all the other animals and see some of the incredible care that the centre provides along with working so closely with the elephants. The centre provides such incredible conditions for the rescued animals and I was privileged to be there when they rescued another old elephant called June. When she first arrived her condition was terrible from mistreatment but towards to end of my time it was incredible to see the difference in June and see her actually put on weight and some of her wounds healing and best of all seeing her being introduced to another elephant was amazing.
The morning duty consisted of cleaning the enclosures from the previous night and then feeding and providing the elephants with clean water. Mid morning consisted of harvesting food for the elephants, which was every other day. When we were not harvesting we were helping with other jobs within the centre like cleaning the bear’s pool or fertilising the trees around the centre. After lunch we fed and watered again and then it was time for the elephant’s bath.
I found the whole experience rewarding, even though I was there for a short time I felt proud that I had been able to care for the elephants and give them special attention that they require.
I think they definately need to reiterate that you need long trousers and long sleeved tops for the harvests as the pineapples are very spiky and your arms can get scratched to bits if they are not covered up. Also a really comfy pair of shoes as some days you are walking quite a bit.
It is a wonderful and rewarding experience. I felt like I was in a dream when I was there as I couldn't believe how close to the animals I was or how they pulled on my heart strings.
I chose PoD for the specific project that I was looking for. They provided excellent information regarding the project and the communication was brilliant. I would definately recommend PoD and I would use them in the future if I was looking to do another project.”
Annie – 2010
“Had a great time working with the elephants! A great experience! Loved the centre you feel at home straight away!
A really nice place, great being in a little village as get to feel more of the Thai culture! but close enough to towns etc.
PoD was a really helpful agency to go with and the placement was lots of fun and very rewarding plus learnt a lot about animal welfare in Asia which was great to learn!”
Sue – 2009
“Just returned from the Elephant Care in Thailand and want to let you know I have had a Fantastic Trip !!! I will highly recommend your company to my friends & colleagues and hope to use your services again soon. Everyone at the centre were welcoming and working with the animals was an amazing experience. Thank you all once again.”
Cathy - 2009
“I wanted to let you know that the Elephant Project was wonderful. It was a lovely experience, educational, moving and a lot of fun. Two weeks was a substantial amount of time to get used to the routine of each day and to get to know the ele's. They are beautiful creatures and sometimes cheeky. It was nice knowing that while they're not in the wild (where they should be) their quality of life is far better than if they were on the streets being exploited - it felt good to be part of their lives for a short time, I feel like i've done some good.
I enjoyed the extra duties, including working on the new refuge for the ele's - clearing the land of large rocks, watering the plants around the boundary, clearing the area of any litter. We scraped and prepared the posts in the old enclosure so they could be repainted. We managed to get all posts painted by my last day (was my goal to get that complete - i wanted to see the finished product). The harvesting was hard work, but i enjoy manual labour (a few degrees cooler would've been kinder). Pineapple picking was prickly work, not everyones' favourite but on reflection we had a laugh at the end of the day.
Meeting other volunteers was also a highlight. Sara and I got on very well and continue to keep in contact. We and two others bonded very well and had a lot of fun, our common goal to care for these wonderful animals has brought us together - friendship is a wonderful thing also.
Emma was very welcoming. As a co-ordinator at the centre i think she does a very good job. She offers a lot of information and she's open to listening to everyone (and their sometimes controversial opinions), she's open minded and i think that's important. Emma is a good communicator, the centre needs someone like her.
It was a privilege to meet Edwin. I say a 'privilege' because i was ignorant to how much this man has actually achieved. I also found Edwin to be a very good communicator, he's a realist, a very interesting man and funny - it's always nice to see someone who's achieved great things to be very 'human'.
I observed how volunteers come and go, some stay a short time others greater lengths. Some are extremely passionate, most are there to contribute some good to the lives of all the animals. At the end of the day i believe every volunteer offers something beyond financial, a human spirit of goodness and kindness. Everyone leaves a little wiser and it's with this knowledge we pass on that others will hopefully do the same.”
Charlotte - 2009
“Sawadika! (At least i think that’s how you say hello!). Yea we're really enjoying it here, just wish we had chosen to stay longer! The elephants are breath taking and its been amazing getting to know each of them individually. I've had the amazing chance to swim with the elephants - something I’ll never forget. Meals are excellent and everyone’s soo friendly including the mahouts who are definitely up for a laugh. We leave Sunday morning very early :( I'm going to be sad to leave, but then its on to the diving!!”
Sue - 2008
“I really enjoyed my placement - the facilities were much better than I anticipated, staff helpful and friendly - all in all a lovely experience I would like to do again sometime.
I feel very lucky to have worked with these lovely animals - who all definitely have characters/personalities of their own. Walking with elephants to the forest every day certainly has the edge on walking the dog!!!
I am so pleased to have had the chance to do this work/holiday and wouldn't mind doing it again sometime in the future. It would be lovely to go back and see how the new elephant enclosure develops - i hear from one of the volunteers i worked with that there may already be an additional elephant joining the centre.
I'll have to start saving for my next adventure. Thank you all at PoD for all you help and assistance.”
Rhoda - 2008
“This was my first volunteering 'holiday', but I am converted! I had an absolutely amazing time on my 2 week volunteer placement at the elephant conservation centre and would highly recommend it. Working so closely with the elephants was really rewarding and the mahouts were very welcoming and friendly, as were the other volunteers - they were a very sociable crowd and there were lots of nights out in the nearby town Hua Hin, which served to be a great way to get to know each other!
The work is at times quite physically challenging, although mainly just because its so hot, and its worth noting that the working day can be a little longer than stated, particularly if you have been rota'd for any house duties - although you do get long breaks throughout the day. My partner and I actually found that some of the breaks were at times a little too long, so we volunteered to help with other things around our elephant duties. There are always extra duties that the centre needs volunteers to help with, such as building new enclosures, moving compost, animal enrichments, although obviously its your decision if you'd like to help with these. My partner and I volunteered to help build a new leopard cat enclosure, which we both really enjoyed. The accommodation was basic but comfortable, and it's located on site, so its very convenient - particularly after one of the many nights out in Hua Hin!
I had a truly amazing time and this really was a holiday of a lifetime.. although having said that, I'm already planning to go back!”
Joanna - 2008
“My only regret was not staying longer! Even though I was only there for a week, I had so many experiences. The elephants are the most amazing and gentle creatures, and it was an honour to be so close to them and help them as well as some of the other wildlife. Everyone was so friendly and from all walks of life and every part of the world. On our day off we hopped into the back of a pick up truck, drove to the forest and watched the sunset, hiked to a waterfall and saw wild gibbons...fabulous.
Really basic accommodation but that was a great experience! and the location in the middle of nowhere was amazing, with the lake and forest, and typically Thai village and monastery down the hill..great to submerge yourself into that.
I expected the elephants to have a bit more freedom, but the conditions were so much better than where they came from. However, the placement exceeded my expectations..i loved it!
If you really want to make a difference, I would recommend the wildlife centre more so than the elephant project, as there is more to do and you help so many animals. However, getting so close to the elephants was awesome and once-in-a-lifetime."
Rebecca - 2008
"This was an absolute trip of a lifetime. I feel privileged to have worked with such incredible creatures and lovely people. I have so many wonderful memories that will never leave me.
I can't believe I have woken up to the sound of the baby elephant trumpeting and the gibbons calling and seen these and more animals as soon as I stepped out the door. The mahouts and other volunteers (from all over the world!) also made this trip particularly unforgettable.I would definately recommend the placement as you will get to see and experience the most amazing things."
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