Thai

"Pang Keaw Thong Chan"

At the herd:

Mar 03

Rescued from:

Shows

A female elephant born in 1968 in Buriram, North-East Thailand. Official name Pang Keaw Thong Chan.

She was taken away from her mother at 3 years old by an elephant circus family. Pang Keaw Thong Chan had to go around Thailand for evening shows at the fair and with other elephants. When she was 12 years old the circus business sold her to another owner and she was used to walk the city streets begging.

Elephant originally registered in Surin province return home each year in November for the annual elephant round-up which is one of the provinces most celebrated festivals.

Ex-volunteers Chas and Rachel went with Lek to Surin. (see Siam's story) They saw two elephants apparently in deep conversation and watched in awe as they communicated by touching and stroking. They were struck by the fondness these two displayed towards each other.

Chas discussed terms with the owner which finally reached agreement. He then rescued and brought them to the sanctuary of Elephant Haven. Kheaw Thong Chan gained her freedom and the new name of "Thai" which means freedom. Thai and Siam soon settled in with the rest of the herd. The daily life they enjoy includes swimming in the big river, playing together, interacting with the rest of the herd and eating fresh food which is quite different from the garbage the had to live on when they were pounded the streets.

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