Save Elephant Foundation | Rescuing and Caring for Asian Elephants

Dedicated to Protecting Asian Elephants

RESCUE

We come to the aid of elephants in need and provide them with a better future

REHABILIATION

We provide loving care so that physical and psychological injuries can heal

RECOVERY

We offer a sanctuary where elephants can rediscover their nature and join a herd

EDUCATION

We work to shift perceptions so that elephants are viewed with compassion and respect

We are a Thai non-profit organization dedicated to providing care and assistance to Thailand’s elephant population

The story of the Asian elephant is one of struggle and survival in the face of adversity. Save Elephant Foundation has been at the forefront of protecting elephants in Asia for over two decades, but there is still much work to be done. Our multifaceted approach includes the rescue and rehabilitation of elephants along with all animals in need, education through sustainable ecotourism, the protection of the natural environment, and the support of local communities. Our goals are ambitious and we cannot accomplish them alone…

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Our Founder

Saengduean Lek Chailert

Saengduean Chailert, better known as Lek, is an award-winning conservationist who has dedicated her life to protecting Asian elephants and other animals so that they may live free from fear and with dignity.

In the 1990’s, Lek started rescuing injured, neglected, and elderly elephants and in 2003 was able to establish a sanctuary for them in the beautiful Mae Taeng valley, near Chiang Mai, in Northern Thailand. Today, the park is home for elephants who are able to live within family herds and develop close friendships with each other. Elephants at the park are not required to work, do not perform tricks, and are not ridden, but instead, are allowed to live a more natural life.

Lek has been working for over two decades to rescue and improve the conditions of elephants in Asia and promote their welfare. Lek continues to be at the forefront of elephant rights and has initiated projects in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, dedicated to improving the well-being of elephants throughout the region. Read more….

COVID-19: A Jumbo Crisis

In March 2020, Thailand closed its borders to international visitors in response to the Covid-19 pandemic – an action that suddenly cut off the income stream used to care for thousands of Thailand’s captive elephants “employed” in the tourist industry. Since then, many have faced starvation and long unbroken periods on chains, without appropriate care. SEF initiated immediate support through a number of projects dedicated to providing help, including an elephant food bank, the farm to herd campaign, elephant foster programs, and upskilling people working with elephants to improve their income during the crisis and beyond. Read more…

Compassion for All Animals

Save Elephant Foundation has been working to improve the lives of elephants in Southeast Asia for many years… but that is not all we do. We provide a safe haven to many other rescued animals including dogs, cats, cows, rabbits, buffalo, horses, goats, sheep, pigs, chickens and more…