One of the most ethical animal sanctuaries amongst many (established in California, in 1984) is the Performing Animal Welfare Society, known simply as PAWS. They pride themselves on rescuing “abandoned, abused, or retired performing animals” which includes not only elephants but also lions and tigers and bears. 🙂
For those who love elephants PAWS offers “an educational weekend getaway” of one or two days. It is called “Seeing the Elephant”
The name of this adventure reflects not only the historical legacies of the area (the California Gold Rush era ) but also the actuality of getting up close to observe a herd of rescued PAWS elephants as well.
There are only a few dates throughout each year to experience “Seeing the Elephant” at PAWS. Reserve your special date with these elephants early in order not to miss out. Â And whether it’s Valentine’s Day or a birthday you can only be left with a good feeling knowing you are helping to provide sanctuary for these former captive elephants. Mara….. Nicholas….. Gypsy….. Lulu….. Maggie….. Toka, Thika and Prince all benefit from your donation to this getaway, the ultimate elephant lovers’ gift!
Mara : Elephant of the Week at PAWS – Performing Animal Welfare Society : Loxodonta Africana
Nicholas : Elephant of the Week at PAWS – Performing Animal Welfare Society : Elephas Maximus
Gypsy : Elephant of the Week at PAWS – Performing Animal Welfare Society : Elephas Maximus
Maggie : Elephant of the Week at PAWS – Performing Animal Welfare Society : Loxodonta Africana
Prince : Elephant of the Week at PAWS – Performing Animal Welfare Society : Elephas Maximus
P.S. If you don’t have the time (or are too far away) for the “Seeing the Elephant” Getaway, your donation to the elephants (or other rescued animals) residing at PAWS is fully appreciated. PAWS is an ethical, “true wildlife sanctuary” (Thank you, Ed Stewart!)
Image: Maggie the elephant happily exploring her new home upon her arrival at PAWS: full copyright to the U.S. Air Force who helped transport Maggie during her rescue from Anchorage Alaska Zoo
PAWS “Seeing the Elephant” encounter
PAWS facebook
Elephant Spoken Here facebook
Image: by U.S. Air Force, who helped transport Maggie during her rescue from Anchorage Alaska Zoo : Maggie the elephant happily exploring her new home upon her arrival at PAWS