Throughout June, Intrepid is matching donations to World Animal Protection Thailand through The Intrepid Foundation, dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, helping fund the transition of elephant tourism venues from rides and performances to higher-welfare sanctuary models.
According to World Animal Protection’s latest assessment of Thailand’s captive elephant tourism industry, 2,849 elephants are currently held across 236 tourism venues in Thailand. While elephant rides and shows have declined over the past decade, more than 1,200 elephants are still used for riding experiences, and two-thirds are kept in conditions World Animal Protection considers poor for welfare outcomes.
The campaign supports World Animal Protection’s goal of transitioning three elephant venues in Thailand this year.
Funds raised will support venues like Ran-Tong Elephant Rescue Centre in Chiang Mai, home to 10 rescued elephants, with improvements including chain-free night enclosures, enrichment facilities and observation-only visitor experiences.
