Training Elephants

 

Why train elephants?  - To communicate!

 

The elephants are trained so that they know for example to walk with you to the river and then to lie down  so that you can wash them! It's as simple as that and no cruelty is involved at all. They are very easy to train as they are not only quick to learn, but are very sociable animals that like to show affection and to be able to communicate with other species such as humans! They learn quickly and are at least as intelligent a dog, showing the same ability to learn. Training elephants using positive reinforcement such as food rewards (bananas), touch, as well as voice commands means the elephants learn in a humane way, from the beginning. Elephants respond well to these methods and the bonding between human and elephant is further enhanced. It also means, understandably, that with good communication the elephants are not likely to act aggressively. 

 

Elephants are just simply amazing, wonderful creatures. One cannot help being in awe of them. They are complex, intelligent beings that are playful, affectionate, responsive, gentle and curious.

 

Our people and our village have lived in harmony alongside these beautiful mammals, as family, for hundreds of years. We look after and care for our elephants and have a mutual respect with them. This is their home, roaming free amongst us, free to wander in the forest and the jungle.   

   

Elephants remain a vital part of the economy and culture of Thailand and are an integral part in both cultural and religious ceremonies. Working with elephants is not so different from working with horses; both are very intelligent animals that respond well to positive reinforcement and learn very quickly. Elephants touch more overtly and affectionately than horses, elephants are more like the family pet dog with their open affection.