May 27, 2010

When elephants retire

They say all dogs go to Heaven, but elephants go to Tennessee!
The Elephant Sanctuary, in Hohenwald, Tennessee, was founded in 1995 and is now the nation's largest natural habitat refuge for endangered elephants (Asian and African). With approximately 2700 semi-wooded acres, elephants get a premier retirement plan that includes medical, spring-fed ponds, heated barns, a lake, and room to roam! The sanctuary had a 10 year timeline that included land allotments, new buildings (solar powered, too), educational center and a "people perimeter" for viewing but not touching. With over 76,000 members and in-kind donations, this place has been able to accommodate 20+ elephants which you can meet here. In addition to the elephants, a few dogs have also been safely rescued and roam the acreage as well.

Elephants have a tendency to pair up into relationships - male/female or two female best friends. In one unique case, an odd pairing has been a national success story and gave the sanctuary a new audience to educate and support their heartfelt work. Meet Tara and Bella, an odd couple that have been best friends for some time - through thick and thin, even a surgical recovery. Bella even lets Tara rub her belly - with her foot! In 2009, CBS filmed an interview about these two amazing friends.



The Elephant Sanctuary would love for you to become a member. There are different levels to accommodate your budget - you can even "Feed an elephant for a day" by choosing one of your choice via their favorite foods. Contact The Elephant Sanctuary for more details including how to become a member, elephant history and read the elephant diaries.

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