Elephants were first domesticated approximately 4,000 years ago. They soon established themselves in Asian culture and religion.

Captive elephants now total approximately 15,000 in Asia alone, one third of the entire population (wild and captive).

While debate continues around the role of domesticated elephants in the future of the species, we are working to ensure that they do not suffer today.

Our Health & Welfare programme provides money, management advice and specialist staff to ensure the highest standards of living and veterinary care are available to captive elephants across Asia.

We address these issues through our projects in:
Captive Elephant Management and Veterinary Care.