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How has learning about the lives of elephants in captivity affected you?
131 Responses


I have never felt such a strong connection to another type of being. When I read the stories, I sob from a place inside of me that I never knew existed. I understand what it's like to have your whole life stolen from you, to be forced to perform and do the most unnatural things....and I sob because no being should be forced to endure such horrendous cruelty...and to then, have the will to survive.....amazing. But then, to finally have a sanctuary....(sobbing)....I would love to see that sanctuary one day....every being should have a sanctuary....
Eve, New York

Working in old Montreal, i see horses everyday and i get sad everytime i see them, just by looking in their eyes you see the sadness, and i imagine it's the same for the elephants, i love all animals and it will be about time we leave them alone and let them free as we are free.
Robert Dupont , montreal, canada

I amazed how much I have learned about elephants just from your site. I am so thankful there are people like all of you who are there to help the elephants. My prayers are with you.
Heidi Hubbard, central Washington State

I makes me utterly sick to think that human beings can be cruel to any animals. What comforts me is that these cruel human beings WILL meet their MAKER one day and have to answer why they abused a creature of HIS. I have been passing the word to everyone about your website.
Kris M, Riverside, CA

It has affected me deeply and have since become more involved in their plight by learning more and speaking openly about it.
Lynne Mac Gregor, South Africa

It breaks my heart. They are such sociable animals. It is horrible the way they and other wild animals are treated by circuses and other so called entertainment organizations. I was so happy to find out about your elephant sanctuary.
Saskia C McAbee, Reno NV

My family witnessed an elephant being abused at a Circus for not performing perfectly; that had a traumatic effect on my children and as their mother I had to make this wrong a right and I found TES and showed my children that there is a place that circus and zoo elephant can go and be free of harm. Any time we have a chance we speak to people about our experience and that there is alternative family entertainment. I have even brought my family’s experience into my college studies when I can; I have given three speeches on elephant abuse, TES, and banning Circuses that use animals. My youngest daughter is now a vegetarian and is working her way to becoming a vegan. She is also part of many animal rights groups. This one incident changed my daughter; she had to witness the harming of living being for the name of entertainment. We wish that no other family has to experience what we did, we never want to see an elephant flinch in pain, see tears going down their face and a look of begging for help. That image has been burned into us and changed us for the better but at the price of an elephant. Speak out and speak loud that one day circuses that use animals will be the thing of the past.
B. Family , Galloway, OH

It has made me ashamed that I ever went to a circus.
Kathy Hertzel, Webster, NY

Recently returned November 2008 from THAILAND at the Elephant Nature Park there. Participated in a 2 week volunteer program to help care for the elephants there.
Dolores Whitley, Delaware

My love for all animals turned me into a vegetarian. Good health is a side benefit. When people tell me I need meat for protein, I tell them the largest animals are vegetarians; elephants, gorillas, stallions, are vegetarians and they remain strong without eating other animals. I do not believe in circuses or zoos with elephants and big cats, and have been able to banish them from some of our cities in Calif. TES is the best for them next to being in the wild.
Garnet, Murrieta, Ca.

I visited Winky living alone in her tiny pen in Wisconsin when I was a child. My mother told me shortly thereafter that she had hurt someone and I knew why right away. I knew that it was wrong for her to live like that and feared for her safety. I never looked at elephants in zoos the same way again. None ever looked happy. It is primarily because of greed and ignorance that elephants continue to suffer in inadequate zoos in this country.
Liz Cook, Davis, CA

I am concerned that they don't have enough clear, clean water, in which to bathe.
barbara monnette, saint helena, california

Aside from making me sad, I became more aware of the plight of many creatures. I wish I had been more educated at an earlier age (I will turn 60 this month); I might have had the opportunity to really help. As it is, I donate to many animal welfare groups now and hope to visit one in the next year. When I retire, I plan to volunteer in one these centers. Many thanks for opening my heart!
Lana Grimm, Colorado

When I see these beautiful animals performing these unnatural acts for entertainment I am sick to my stomach. I did not go to any events where animals are used. It breaks my heart to know how they are treated and punished if they don't perform.
Nancy, Winthrop, MA

To all my fellow elephant lover friends; please visit my myspace for elephants! www.myspace.com/protecttheelephants THANK YOU!
Cynthia , San Francisco

Personally speaking, it has literally changed my life. I am now studying to be an attorney with a hand in animal protection law. I have also dedicated my life to researching the ivory trade and am communicating with animal activist organizations in the US and China. I hope to start my own organization in the near future.
Cynthia, San Francisco

I've learned that while there are some thoughtless, soulless and cruel people who do not understand or care about the lives of elephants and other animals, there are many countless people who do care, who recognize the innocence and purity of the animal spirit. I thank the universe every day for the tireless efforts of TES, and I treasure the awareness I have gained from Carol, Scott, Kate and all the others. This is what humanity can be.
Ginny, Port Townsend, WA

I knew about the lives of elephants in captivity before I knew about the Sanctuary, and I felt great despair at their fate (and at the fate of so many of the earth's wild creatures). It is what I have learned from the Sanctuary that stays with me the most; that although there is human cruelty in the world, forces of great compassion can make a real and positive difference in the world, not just in a general way but in the lives of individual beings. Knowing the fate of captive elephants, and seeing their ability to recover with careful human intervention, gives me hope for the future and our ability to save our world.
Mary Wilson, Gabriola Island, BC

The first picture I drew as a child of four was of an elephant. I don't know where I got the idea to draw an elephant. The first and only time I went to the circus was when I was about 8 or 9-around 1964. I couldn't leave the elephants' sides. I felt a deep connection with them as well as a deep sadness for the sadness I sensed in them. My parents never allowed me to see "Dumbo" as a child. I now understand why and am grateful to them for trying to protect me but wish I had gotten involved much sooner. I discovered TES early in 2008 after researching the video "Urban Elephants" and about Shirley and Jenny on the PBS website. That day my heart was broken because I learned that sweet Jenny had passed already and Shirley was without her daughter. Through TES, I've come to know all of the horrors that these beautiful, gentle, giants suffer at the hands of human exploitation. I have spent a great deal of this year in tears while I've learned everything I can about this subject often forgetting to eat and sleep. I tell anyone who will listen about TES and the plight of captive elephants. I am now a committed supporter of TES and of all elephants, especially those in captivity who are old, sick, and needy. I am also against zoos and using animals to perform period. It is a recipe for abuse. I have been seriously wanting to work at TES if they would hire someone my age. It would be a privilege and an honor to be in the presence of elephants and the beautiful people and other creatures at TES. PS I have taken care of horses, donkey, cows, goats, dogs, cats, chickens etc... ( :
Catherine York, Gainesville, FL

If one takes a minute to look into an animals eyes,they can see into it,s soul. I have loved Elephants all my life and have always wished that they could be in a heaven on earth. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving your wonderful elephants HEAVEN.God bless you,all the girls,and Ned. Here's to a wonderful "09
Liz, Milwaukee

It sickens me. How can we as human beings do this to these beautiful creatures? I do not understand.
Lisa, Indiana

I was a keepers' aid at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle. I recall being mesmerized by Bamboo and the others. Knew the keeper well and thought that this new 'state-of-the-art' enclosure was all that they needed. This site and others have shown me a much more dismal picture for zoo elephants. And in fact I do recall the behavior problems they had with Boo and how it was never discussed that it could be anything other than a personality disorder. She was, and remains, a very angry creature. And I weep now at how the public and the staff were fooled.
Debra M. Moore, Sacramento, CA.

I purchased your book along with my donation.one of my patient's read the book and told me that her family had owned a circus. she said that the treatment of the animals was so cruel that she would leave the area the elephants were kept in and have to vomit. she loved the book. i will never go to a circus again.
Marian Johnston, Mount Vernon, WA

It makes me sad for humanity.
Jamey , Kansas City

I stumbled on your website about two years ago - I've always loved elephants and knew they weren't treated properly in zoos and circuses but to find a place that does so much for these wonderful animals is so heartwarming. I live in Dallas and joined in picketing the zoo here to allow Jenny to join you in Tennessee. I send an e-mail every day to the city council to let her go and spend her remaining years with you and others of her kind at your marvelous acreage with caretakers who do care so much. It brings a tear to my eye along with a smile when I see your girls and newest temporary addition, Ned. They are all so happy with you and deserve the lives they now have. I have your CD with all your elephants with the exception of Ned and have watched it more than once - I feel as though I know them all. My wish would be to see them in person but I know that one of the purposes of your place is to give them a life without people gawking at them. So, along with others I watch them on your website and CD and my heart swells with love for them. Although my donation is tiny each month I hope it helps at least in a tiny way to help your sanctuary going.
Wanda Trotta, Plano, Texas

It's inspiration has made me treat my own pets in the manner I believe TES, PAWS or Big Cat Rescue would do... I cry everytime I see Shirley separated from Solomon and then reunited with Jenny. All the elephant stories are heartbreaking because of the worst of humanity, and then redeemed with the idealism of TES. TES has contributed to the growth of my soul and helped me be a spokesman for elephants. It is also inspiring to see how all sanctuaries raise our consciousness of all animals and their true needs. God Bless these special caretakers and the animals themselves.
Terry Youngblood, Jacksonville, GA

WITH HEARTFELT EMOTION AND OVERWHELMING LOVE. MY HOPE IS THAT THEY FIND SOME PEACE ON THIS CRUEL EARTH. THEY ARE TRULY A GIFT FROM GOD BUT THEN, AREN'T ALL ANIMALS. WHAT WE DO TO THEM BREAKS MY HEART. I ALSO WORRY ABOUT NED AND HIS PROGNOSIS. HE LOOKS SO LONELY. I KNOW HE IS GETTING MARVELOUS CARE AND LOVE AT THE SANCTUARY BUT WILL HE EVER HAVE INTERRACTION WITH HIS OWN KIND?
SHARON BROWN, MICHIGAN

MORE THAN I EVER IMAGINED POSSIBLE. MY WHOLE 40 YEARS I HAVE HAD A PLACE IN MY HEART FOR ALL ELEPHANTS BUT TO KNOW THE SACRIFICES OF THESE ELEPHANTS HAS TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT THEIR INTELLIGENCE, SOCIETY, BEHAVIOR AND FEELINGS. I FEEL LIKE ALL OF YOU, THE ELEPHANTS AND THE SANCTUARY ARE A BIG PART OF MY MISSION AND LIFE NOW.
BETH HAMMOND, ECLECTIC, ALABAMA

I have loved every minute I have spent over the past year learning more about these life forces. I am frustrated sometimes, however, because learning of elephants through a website, although extremely captivating and interesting, lacks the genuine of realness in interacting with a real elephant. Sanctuary staff are truly lucky, and their efforts are most certainly meaningful. I am jealous. I wish I could get to know these elephants as individuals, not just as an animal through a website, no matter how grand. I am not sure elephants should not be in performing arts in some form. How else will people learn to love these creatures at a visceral level? If anyone has any suggestions for me, please write: csmthreeb@hotmail.com
Claire S. Moen, Grand Forks, North Dakota

AH! you are soooo right, Lesley: {I have learned that elephants are people too. Lesley, Vancouver} The elephants shows emotions; grieve over their departed partners or friends; protect their young ones; remember things or people so well. They are intelligent animals. Well put, Lesley!
BCP, Morganton, NC

I do love elephants ! They're so special beings ... so sensitive and amazing at the same time ... I admire what you do for them and I would love to meet you one day ... flying to your country as I'm in France ... Go on, you are wonderful !!! Wishing you a Happy New Year with your lovely friends ...
Stéphanie Drouet, Mérignac in France

They speak to my heart and soul. There is a spiritual connection and I can't get enough of them. What gentle souls. Smart, funny, loving. I feel blessed to be able to learn about them and learn from them. Thank you for giving them a shelter from the storm.
Jeanie, Indiana

That even though there are 6+ billion people in the world, like elephants, we are all individuals and affect each other's environments no matter how small or if good or bad. We are a global world. We cannot live in our own little "1/4 acre of concrete and hard-packed dirt" anymore. Like a ripples in a pond, ones actions ultimately are going to impact others.
Leigh, Lancaster, Va

I live above wild animal PRk in San Diego.CA I Visit the ele's every week.I was devastated to learn CArol was put down due to her feet knowing you could have cared for her in her last years
carol Wellhausen, escondido CA

Having been a supporter of The Elephant Sanctuary, it can only instill inspiration. As a retired physician assistant, it's on my bucket list to be able to work with the elephants. Their recovery from PTSD is incredibly instructive and crosses species lines. Ned's irritable bowels search my brain for a diagnosis (pancreatitis like 71?). Obviously I need to read elephant medicine first. But more attractive than the physical needs is the spiritual aspect of interspecies communication. TES inspired me to start a sanctuary in my own small way - to do my part in providing a soft home and nice backyard with lots of azaleas for older kitties to sleep under. I have seven rescued from death at the pound: one is a ten year old hyperthyroid cat whose owner was dying and she was whisked away from the only home she knew; another is a cat who was so mean that she spit like a cobra and was to be put immediately asleep, but I could see she was just scared and needed safety, now she is a delight scooting and playing all the time. And although I have been able to "whisper" the others, one remains crabby, my crabby cat. I also have two rescued dogs, one so used to being beat that it took months to get over his fear of a leash. The inspiration of sanctuary has made me a better care giver. I clean the cat boxes twice day now, even though most of the kitties spend their time outside (if they want). Water is changed at least twice a day. And food is doled out as the vet recommends - well it's hard not to give the dogs a couple more treats and chewies during the day after a run on the beach. Having been privileged to have been in the TES barns, I make sure everything is as clean for my family as it is for me. I often think, "This is what TES would do." Their standards are a good self check. I adore the interspecies communication with my pets, it fulfills my soul. And if there is one thing I have learned from TES, it is that the elephants understand us better than we understand them.
Tory, Queenie, Nosey, Butterball, Scooter, Patches, Ta'Loula and Buddy, St. Simons Island, Ga

Thought I'd pass along that Pat Derby has a new year's message that includes a heartfelt wish that people think of TES and NED. (PAWS will be Ned's home once he is well enough to travel.) http://www.pawsweb.org/news_and_alerts_happy_new_year.html
Lesley, Vancouver

Learning about the lives of captive elephants has affected me deeply. I remembering being at the circus as a little girl and riding on an elephant. It was awful. I could feel her sadness,her apathy, and her pain. I never stepped foot in a circus again. Learning about elephants has deepened my connection to spirit, purpose, beauty, and hope. The stories that I read about the elephants at the sanctuary have brought tears to my eyes. It brings nothing but a feeling of hope to read about Maggie at PAWS and Ned at TES. Thank you so much for all that you do! I know that there is a place in TN full of light and love and that brings me comfort.
Beth Osmer, San Francisco

I have to say that I am really proud to be a part of the Elephant Sanctuary, if only from afar. May Ned Be Blessed!
Kathleen Van Sandt, Piedmont California

I am more aware of animals' rights.
angela wingers, hiram, GA

I say no zoos, no circuses. There should be careful filming of elephants in their natural habitat and those films should be used to educate. Elephants are fellow travelers on our planet, not playthings for our amusement.
Noreen McQuinn, Mission Viejo, CA

I had no interest in the circus as a child and never asked my parents to take me. The only time I went was for a friend's birthday party, and the moment I saw the elephant "perform", I cringed. It was a depressing and unsettling sight. I was the only kid there who didn't enjoy it. I sensed the unhappiness, confinement, and degradation of a magnificent, intelligent creature who was there against its will for an idiotic purpose. Learning about the lives of elephants in captivity and supporting The Elephant Sanctuary, has reinforced and clarified my feelings about circus/zoo elephants. And I have even more respect for these incredible, complex animals than ever before. Like all living beings, they deserve the freedom to live life on their own terms, with dignity, not humiliated and exploited for human "entertainment".
Claudia, New York City

I am very grateful to you all for helping the elephants,.Thank you for showing the girls and Ned so we can see them . I want to volunteer this spring for sure to help in any way I can. I am so happy to see how many supporters you have.Thanks for sharing. With love, Arlene Shako n family
Arlene shako, upstate New York

I have just come back from thailand and stayed for 2 weeks at the elephant nature park volunteering to help care for rescued elephants from trekking, logging and street begging. They are so happy.. I tell everyone i know about the plight of elephants and let everyone know to NEVER go to a circus. All my friend call me the elephant woman.
karen katsbulas , florida

I have had a life long love of elephants. I took a course for docent training at our local zoo and saw the "training" that the circus put them through; I saw elephants moving from foot to foot--a carryover from being chained. This made me physically sick. I am indebted to The Sanctuary and everyone associated with it; there is a place in heaven for all, including the wonderful elephants. God bless each and every one of you!
Claudia, Northern CA

I, like many of the others, tell everyone I know about the Elephant Sanctuary. My life has been touched in so many ways by the beautiful work done at TES and PAWS on helping Elephants. I earn for more knowledge about elephants and how I can help. Helping Elephants will be my life long passion and I will always try to be part of their lives.
Lynne Ray, Herndon, Virginia

I have learned that elephants are people too.
Lesley, Vancouver

I was never critical of elephants in zoos or circuses before witnessing the plight of the elephants at the sanctuary. I am convinced now that elephants belong in a wild setting. One of the elephants is the same age that I am, and the thought of this sentient being living in captivity has deeply affected me.
Cara, Phoenix, AZ

In ways I cannot express, except to say that it touches me as deeply as anything ever has.
Diane Kluttz, Phoenix, AZ

I have always loved elephants- to me, they have such wise and old souls. They are so gentle and full of knowledge that we humans may never quite grasp the full extent of. My hometown is Evansville, IN...where Bunny was the only elephant at the zoo for decades. Knowing how social these animals are, I feel such relief knowing Bunny is at the sanctuary in peace with her "sisters". I try to educate everyone I know about the Elephant Sanctuary. I tune into the website on a weekly basis to find out what's happening with the girls and Ned. In a world with so much suffering, it makes me feel good to know such positive work is being done here. I will do all I can...sign petitions, volunteer, spread the word about the abuse of animals in circuses, etc. to help the elephants!
Cori Edwards, Louisville, KY

I,too, loved Lota and when I learned of her plight, that's when I began to do what I could to help support the Elephant Sanctuary. I will never watch performing elephants again.
Pat, Milwaukee, WI

I make everyone I come in contact aware of the plight of elephants. I direct them to the TES website and they are truly amazed at what they learn.
Doreen Rudnick, Metamora, MI

I am thrilled to note that venues featuring animals that are forced to perform for human entertainment (circus, rodeo, racing, etc.) have never received a dime of my money...and never will.
Beverly, South Carolina

I have learned to persevere and to not be afraid to love
Sabine Zell, Simsburry, VT

I have learned captivity is not where they belong. My life has been impacted with a desperate desire to find a way to go work for them at one of the sanctuaries. I am lining up for early retirement so I will still be young enough and strong enough to do my share in whatever capacity that may be. The very first time I clicked on the ele cam, I just wanted to be there with them making sure they are cared for and safe. There will be no zoo or circus visits for me ever again.
Angie, California

I visit your site every morning and while working in Pike Place Market tell my customers, ( we get 11 million visitors a year) about you and the ele-phants of Hohenwald Sanctuary.
Carol Wolf, Seattle Washington

Seeing regal, magnificent elephants forced to do tricks that were obviously a threat to their safety in circuses always made me sad, even angry. Then one day I saw a documentary about an elephant named Shirley, who had lived at the zoo in my small Southern hometown and had come to live at the Elephant Sanctuary. I fell in love. The donations I make to Shirley's care are my small way of making up for the years of abuse all of these elephants have endured.
Mary M., Houston, Texas

Learning about the lives of elephants in captivity has lit a fire under me. I am so passionate about helping elephants, but even more so, elephants in captivity, particularly in the United States. I have learned a new love. A different love, by loving these elephants. They have taught me so much and comforted me at times when I have been down. My heart goes out to every captive elephant. I can only hope and pray that one day all captive elephants will find the peace of sanctuary as I believe that is the closest to freedom they will ever come. I learned that the elephants at the Tennessee Elephant Sanctuary are blessed!
Kelly Spencer, Middlesex, NJ

The abuse has haunted me, I have seen the videos of the brutal attacks while training the elephants, I have heard the cries from the elephants. The EleFanHerd group and TES have educated me, and allowed me to become apart of a wonderful journey in helping elephants in anyway I can.
Patricia Griffiths, Pleasant View, TN

Who would have thought that playing with a baby elephant named Tarra years ago in the hills of Ojai would lead to becoming an elephant activist and seeing TES become a reality. Just reading the previous posts, I think the sanctuary has enriched the awareness of many people who would not have otherwise known the truth about elephants. Education is the answer to help free the elephants suffering in captivity.
Nancy, Ojai, Ca.

Am hoping that one day humanity will have more respect and love for its fellow animals.
Bronwen and Bella, Australia

IT has given my life gravity. The masai believe elephants are the only animals with souls. To know of a self conscious being who is so resilient, so forgiving and graceful gives my life a perspective I never had before learning about elephants.
pamela hall, san diego

My journey began with Tina....my life and outlook on many things has never been the same.
Susan, B. C., Canada

I've known about it for years. What has moved me profoundly was the discovery that a place such as TES exists. This is something that has been needed for a long time. A thousand thank yous!
Pat Elvin, Elgin, IL

everything-----i did not realize the depth that lives in each elephant-----an elephant is not just an animal but a spiritual being------
bonnie, spring green, wi

It breaks my heart to see these massive, endearing creatures who show so much love to one another and their elephant families being taken away from their homelands. My awakening became personal when an elephant, Lota, was taken from a zoo in my city and sold for $1.00 to a circus. She was finally able to come to your sanctuary which gave her some semblance of normal life until her all to short life came to an end.
Candace Kubczak, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

In 1906, a human being---a PYGMY named Ota Benga, was put on display at the Bronx Zoo. To think that a Zoo would even consider this is unbelieveable, in this day and age. I look forward to the day that we can look back at how elephants like Jenny in Dallas, Billie in Los Angeles, and many many others, have been treated at early twenty-first Century Zoos, and we can shake our heads in disbelief. YES, we can tell our grandchildren---they really DID hold elephants as captives---but people are smarter now, and elephants are no longer living in agony. Here is a link to the story of Ota Benga: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ota_Benga
Ilise L., Dallas, TX

I have returned to school, to get my degree in veterinary tech, hoping to join your staff so i can bring my knowledge to you and continue to learn from you and the captive elephants so together we can not only save their lives, but keep them healthy and safe....
debbie lore, pevely,missouri

Learning about elephants living in captivity has not only led me to be a supporter of The Elephant Sanctuary but turned me into an activist as well. I can think of no animal that humankind owes a greater apology to than the elephant. Living in America I think we kid ourselves that we are better than other countries in our treatment of animals but there is plenty of brutality here, it is just more hidden. I am tired of people hiding behind the lies. Number one, that zoos are actually doing something positive for elephant conservation. Nothing could be further from the truth. There is not one wit of evidence that seeing elephants in zoos fosters any support for conservation in the wild. If anything the huge amounts spent to perpetuate something that is clearly a monumental failure is staggering, in dollars and in elephant lives. Elephants in zoos die prematurely and from horrific diseases caused by captivity. Breeding programs are a huge failure. I really don't think a lot of the public really believe just how much these animals are suffering. I have blogged with too many of them. I can still remember one person's solution to the problem of inadequate space in an elephant exhibit was to solve it by putting pygmy elephants in the exhibit. Circuses are not even open for debate. They are just plain wrong. The Elephant Sanctuary has turned out to be one of the strongest voices for captive elephants. Why? The elephants themselves. They educate us. I am always amazed at their zest for life in spite of their health problems and their capacity to heal themselves, offer compassion, and embrace all that the sanctuary has to offer. We are immediately captivated and inspired by them and they have changed our lives. I will never stop fighting for them.
Sue, Texas

I realize now, the human nations should have honored the elephant nation, dealt with them in respect, lived with them without dominating them and never, ever used them for human amusement. The elephants would have been the human beings best friends.
Fay Morris, Victoria, B.C.

About 10 years ago I went to the Universe Soul Circus. After the show, they had one of the elephants out front where people could take a photo with the elephant. I did not. I looked into her eyes and she looked through my soul. I had never seen such sadness. I now choose to believe this docile creature was Billie. That is the last animal circus I attended. I had an elephant collection that was over 200 in representation. It is down to about 125. All that were representative of an elephant doing something unnatural have been thrown away. I only discovered the sanctuary this year. I tell others not to support the circus or zoos. Financially, I will feed Debbie for a day starting in January.
Marcia, Texas

I have loved and admired Elephants my whole life, however, I was unaware of the way they have been treated. I recently read the book "Jumbo". It opened my eyes wide. I will love them even more now and will praise the Sanctuary for the work you do.
Loretta Cornelius, Florida

I went to a circus as a child and thought the elephants were enjoying themselves as they ran around to the music, bowed and did their tricks. I rode an elephant too. Now, not a day goes by that I do not feel deeply saddened, duped, angered and highly motivated to do whatever I can to help these magnificent creatures get free of that misery. The TES inspires me on the darkest days. Thank you TES.
Angie B., Indiana

I have been deeply affected by the lives of the "girls." Their emotions, the sharing of those emotions and their intelligence is awe-inspiring. If all elephants (in captivity, i.e., circuses) could live the lives of those in the Santuary it would be absolutely wonderful.
Barbara Wise, Pinedale, Wyoming

it all started with Lota at the milwaukee zoo. and how she was sold for $1.00 and abused. than came the hawthorn corp. and all the elephants you saved . Lota was an example,a hero, a very strong individual who led us to open our eyes!!!!!
Rhonda, wisconsin

It has made me so appreciative of these majestic and sensitive beings. I am so thankful for all the care that TES and PAWS (in California) staff gives to our precious elephants. I would give everything to be around elephants the rest of my life! What a priviledge it must be to have elephants in your life every day on a personal level!! It breaks my heart into when I read or hear about abuse or neglect to any animals, and especially elephants. I envy all that has the priviledge to know and love an elephant! Thank you so much for sharing the eles with us through the cam, videos and your website.
Sherry Iscaro, North Carolina

Learning about these beautiful creatures is a humbling experience. Their wisdom, dignity and devotion to each other is inspiring; it has made me ashamed of what man has done to them and has motivated me to learn how I can help them.
Jackie B., Arlington VA

I will not go to a circus with animals again.
Nick, Marietta, GA

Since learning of Elephant Jenny's plight at the Dallas Zoo, and then learning about elephants' needs through books, articles and this website, I have spent many hours sending emails, phoning and giving speeches before City Council and the Dallas Park Board. I have learned that City Government, at least here in Dallas, is not interested in what is BEST for a living breathing elephant. It is amazing that Jenny's plight, and the wonderful opportunities for her health and happiness at TES, are NOT crystal clear to these politicians. Instead, they require her to bide her time, alone and miserable in an antiquated 1/4 acre pen, while they ready a 3.75 acre improvement, to which they plan to add 2-4 more elephants. From what I have read, 3.75 acres for even ONE elephant is hardly adequate space for an elephant. I am sad, but hopeful that articles like the one in SCIENCE, will be an impetus to improve the lot of captive elephants everywhere.
Ilise Lipton, Dallas, TX

I can never see elephants in a zoo without wondering about whether they have the enrichment and companionship they deserve. My local zoo does the best it can but a small zoo is no place for such a magnificent animal who must have room and socialization. I've never seen such selflessness as that shown by the caregivers at TES. How on earth one conceives of such a monumental project and keeps it running is truly beyond belief. The dedcation of the caregivers is inspirational.
Anne, NM

I have always love elephants, unfortunately as a young girl in the city exposed to elephants only in circuses and zoos not knowing how they were really treated. As an adult I see the horror of how our species treats other species everyday and I have tried to help where I could. I always I wished I could do more. I was in awe when I found the Elephants Sanctuary web site! I show all my friends and colleagues the ELE-cam and I was lucky enough to have them donate in my name for my birthday. I try to give what I can. My wish is to win the lottery and be able to donate ALOT to all the girls and NED!
Linda De Falco, Melbourne, Florida

Circuses had always bothered me as a child. My father, a writer, had planned to take me to Africa to see the elephants before he died unexpectedly in 1981. Years after that, I came across a story about a circus elephant named Topsy, born in 1875. By 1903, she had killed 3 men including a trainer who attempted to feed her a lit cigarette. Death was to be her punishment. Hanging her didn't work, so she was fed cyanide, then ultimately electrocuted by Thomas Edison at Coney Island in Jan. 1904. This wasn't done tacitly - hundreds of spectators were invited. I never looked at captive elephants through the same eyes. That "event" was over 100 years ago, but are things really different for Lota, Shirley, Sissy, Jenny, Ned and the other girls before coming to the Santuary? Being chained, abused, and hauled around the country by 'carnies.' What stories these incredible creatures have told us through the books, videos, and website of the The Elephant Sanctuary. I am grateful to have found the Elephant Sanctuary, as it has helped me find some peace for the loss of poor Topsy when I hear about the love showered on the elee's of the Sanctuary. Quoting a friend, "I truly believe the callousness of humanity is surpassed by its compassion, especially when people are educated."
Paige, Atlanta, GA

It has reinforced my desire to do as much as I can do to help improve the lives of those elephants.
Gwen Jones, Beavercreek, Ohio

I am filled with gratitude and admiration for all those who make the Sanctuary possible, and will continue my support for my lifetime.
Adriana (a.k.a. Irene) Baker, Brooklyn, NY

I have become keenly aware of the magnificence of these God's special creatures, and have gained great respect and admiration for you who maintain the Sanctuary to give them quality of life. I have been fortunate to be able to share their stories with several Kindergarten classes at the school where I teach, and so I feel that the love of elephants, and respect for their dignity, have been passed on to another generation. My best wishes to all of you at the Sanctuary. Karen Stickler
Karen Stickler, Johnstown, PA

It has reinforced my belief that man is definitely "Not" the superior species but the most cruel and the ONLY one who exploits every other species and nature for profit.
Nicki Munro, Warwickshire, England, United Kingdom

I feel a conflict of emotions - Great joy when I see the elephants you have saved frolicking and playing as they please, versus having to suffer a wretched life because of man's greed; Deepest sad feelings because you can't save them all!
Terri, North Central, FL

It has made me heart sick knowing their capacity to bond to one another and the memories that haunt them for eternity - I can't imagine that anyone could hurt another living, caring creature in this way. I will do whatever I can to assist these wonderful creatures through educating others and bringing these issues to light.
Tracy , Kentucky

It breaks my heart when I see elephants being poked and prodded to do the stunts that humans think are so cute. How can we, who are supposed to be the highest forms of life, treat these sweet, vulnerable creatures like that. It also saddens me to see elephants behind bars in zoos. Usually they are alone or with others who are just existing because they are fed enough to keep them alive. They don't know what a real life is. The Elephant Sanctuary has made me aware of their plight. Thank you for all you do for these truly wonderful animals.
Virginia Supernaugh, Melbourne, FL

It has profoundly impacted my understanding of our world and the heinous things that humans do for the sake of "entertainment". Although, if you look back through the centuries, perhaps we have become a little more humane, but that was before we had the knowledge of the animal world that we have today. It is even more shameful the way these magnificent sentient beings are treated given what we know about them nowadays.
Jacie, Cheyenne, WY

I am truly ashamed of the human race for ruining the lives of these beautiful animals by keeping them in zoos or a circus for the profits they bring in. I also do not agree with the captive breeding of elephants.
Jackie Hale, Dickson, TN

I have become an activist! I support TES and a couple other Elephant preserves financially. I also had a 4-5 foot sign of "Elephants.com" made with big red letters and stand in front of the Portland, Or. Zoo! I tell all who are interested about the wonderful Sanctuary!!
Nancy S, Vancouver, Washington

I have loved elephants since my trip to Africa, observing them in the wild in 1997; then seeing Maggie the elephant so successfully retired to PAWS from the Alaska Zoo (well-meaning keepers but horribly isolated conditions and climate). Learning from TES and other web info has made me want to get much more involved in the plight of elephants in captivity, those that are expolited for entertainment and profit. I plan to travel to Northern Thailand next, and volunteer at an elephant sanctuary.
Lee, Anchorage, AK

It has made me feel sick all over that some humans can treat elephants so horrible and get away with it for such a long time.
Juanita Eisinger, Livonia, MI

It has made me realize the depth of denial of the zoo and circus industry is far beyond anything I had ever imagined.
Marianne Bessey, Philadelphia PA

I find my awareness is more acute. I am increasingly aware that every choice has consequences. I strive to make more informed and educated choices and decisions. What can I do to make a difference, to make a situation better, to help. I also feel a responsibility to try to gently nudge friends and co-workers to become more aware. Help them see that there are alternative choices and how to find out more to decide for themselves.
Jenna S, Richmond, VA

I cried years ago when I saw an elephant being told to paint a picture at a zoo in northwest FL. She kept looking back at a field, I knew at that moment she was longing for freedom.
Anne, Pensacola, FL

Staying in touch with regular updates of the girls and Ned brings me peace of mind. Recognizing that amazing efforts of the caregivers and donors reminds me of the goodness in the world.
Donna Capriotti, Flying Hills, PA

I don't understand how it works; but reading, watching and learning about the wonderful creatures at TES enriches my life on a daily basis. Every day I check on the elephants and their caregivers, cry for the losses and cheer for the success stories. When I see how the elephants live in the moment each day, esp after such heart wrenching pasts, it helps me see my own life in the right context.
Leah, Black Creek, BC, Canada

I was first introduced to the wonder of elephants by learning about Maggie who is now at PAWS from Alaska Zoo. Then, the "miracle that is Ned" happened to me! His strength, courage, and heart are an inspiration. He has been through so much for 20 years - and he's still is "giving life his all" - even though he was almost starved to death when he arrived at TES. When I think of Ned and his journey into the light - I feel so greatful for everyone who has saved his life.
Joan Spievak, Stamford, CT

Your sanctuary is such a blessing to these elephants. How I pray more elephants could finish their lives in such natural luxury. I believe elephants should remain "forever wild" and "protected". I show my small grandsons your newsletter and videos from website and they are expanding their knowledge of the natural world and how to respect and take care of all the natural world. Peace to you, Virginia Gotzmer ginnigotz@yahoo.com
Virginia Gotzmer , Longmont, Colorado

They have become my most favorite wild animal.
Pat McPhee, Scottsdale AZ. 85250

I am disgusted to learn of the horrible conditions and treatment of circus elephants- and in some cases lasts 30-40 years. It's outrageous and inhumane. They all need to be retired Now, and sent to sanctuary.
Carla Bowlin, Fargo, ND

I was horrified to learn how much elephants in captivity suffer; the exploitation and cruelty. It compelled me to act. We can't claim to really care unless we are willing to do something to end this suffering.
Nancy, Washington

It has reinforced my strong feelings that elephants should not be in zoos or worse still performing in circuses.They are a complex animal with the desire to be in a family situation where strong emotional bonds are set. Humans must stop this insane desire to have animals perform and entertain them.
chriss, BC Canada

From childhood, I was always aware of animals and had strong feelings for the domestic ones. Finding The Elephant Sanctuary made me aware of not only elephants but many exotics in need.
Laura C., New Jersey

It has made us more determined to fight for the exploited elephants locked in zoos and circuses, and to support the Sanctuary in its mission to provide a kinder and more dignified life for the survivors.
Michael and Sheila Medlar, Norfolk, UK

I think that I've become more giving of time and money to animal causes. I give to TES through payroll deduction and through the wish list, send a check occasionally to the ASPCA, walk shelter dogs on Sunday mornings, and I always drop a few bucks in the humane society's bucket at Petsmart. I talk about TES to everyone I know, and I leave my copy of Trunklines in the lunchroom at work (after I've read it, of course!) so as many people as possible can read it. I have written letters to newspapers when the circus is announced. I have written letters to my Congresswoman, Kirsten Gillibrand, who I hope would fully support any anti-circus or anti-cruelty law that came her way. When the circus came to town, I didn't get much sleep because I was thinking and worrying about the animals who were so close, yet so far away from me or anyone being able to help them. I held up anti-circus signs on two of the days of the circus. I think about the poor animals cramped in boxcars every time a train goes by my house.
Maggie Baldwin, Saratoga Springs, NY

It has made me sad to see how they are treated. Elephants as with other creatures are intelligent so they suffer just as bad as we would when our freedom is taken away. The Elephant Sanctuary has given back to the ones that are lucky enough to go there. I only wish they all could find the love and freedom you guys give the ones at your sanctuary. Thank you!
Elizabeth Ferrari, Soddy Daisy, TN

It has made me much more aware of the effects of captive keeping of wild animals.
Terry Wynn, Jefferson City, MO

It has reinforced my belief that some humans do not feel connected to the natural world.
Sandra Goodwin, Wyoming

I can feel their degradation and humiliation in captivity and I am so grateful to organizations like yours who are so dedicated and hardworking on behalf of their plight!
Vivian Birman Ungerleider, Cedar Grove, NJ

I've always loved animals and have been involved in rescue in the past. In 1986 I went to Africa and saw elephants in the wild. However, nothing prepared me for what I learned about elephants in the circus on the Today show in January 2002. I cried for two days and then joined several animal rights groups. Now I am a vegetarian and spend much of my spare time working for the cause of making life better for animals and humans.
Meredith MacCracken, San Diego

I was and am still horrified the conditions that many elephants in the circus world and some zoos, especially privately owned people have had done to these beautiful elephants. It has taught me not to attend circus that has elephants. Between this wonderful sanctuary and wildearth.tv, I have high respect for these elephants. Pray soon that no elephants are allowed in the circuses and are owned by private individuals. I am not sure about the zoos...I am sure some smaller zoos are not able to best take care of them...
BCP, Morganton, NC

How cruel humans can be toward animals because we won't let the animals' needs guide out decisions about their lives. It's not all about what suits us, y'know.
Janet, Cambridge, MA

I am now passionate about boycotting zoos and circuses. I try to gently educate others who patronize these horrible places. My friends (and their kids!) and family will come to me first, if they have any questions about elephants. My son has autism and simply adores elephants. We have used elephants to educate others about autism.
Julie H., Montana

I think that elephants deserve a better life.
Kate A.(age 9. ), Cumberland ME

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