Asian Elephant Vet Clinic
Thailand
This hands-on project allows you to become involved in the inner-workings and behind the scenes of an Asian Elephant foundation in Thailand- dedicated to education, health and welfare. The foundation boasts an on-site hospital as well as a mobile clinic to visit sick and injured elephants in remote areas.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
Gain an understanding of elephant healthcare and physical examination process
Knowledge of common diseases and illnesses in domesticated Thai elephants observed through the veterinary centre
Work alongside the resident vet- Observe medical procedures and elephant treatments
Participate in daily discussion and treatment planning with the onsite vet
Participate and assist the veterinary staff during the mobile clinic runs
Visit Phang-Nga Elephant Park
Explore beautiful Thailand during your days off
Project video
We do not support the use of elephants for human entertainment, such as rides or direct interactions. However, we recognize our professional responsibility as veterinarians to provide care to all animals, irrespective of their living conditions. Our commitment is to ensure that no animal suffers and that every creature receives the best possible care. As a charitable organization, we uphold these principles. We encourage all travelers to consider ethical interactions with elephants and to prioritize their well-being during their journeys.
Elephants are an integral part of the Thai culture. The foundation strives to educate the critical importance of health and welfare within the species as well as to provide accessible veterinary care for elephants throughout the area. Through both the hospital and the mobile clinic it is possible for elephants to receive medical treatment, even in the most remote areas of the region.
The vet volunteer program at the foundation will introduce volunteers to veterinary practices on Asian Elephants, elephant welfare issues, Thai elephant rearing culture, and elephant management in Thailand. These topics will be covered by the volunteer coordinator and the head vet, the two main focal points for volunteers.
Our volunteer coordinator will cover the non-medical topics surrounding Asian elephants. This includes the subject of safety when working with elephants, in depth knowledge of the Asian elephant, elephant husbandry activities, and the history of the elephants in Thailand.
Our head vet will lead and mentor the volunteers through treatment observation and case consultation for in-patient elephants along with mobile clinic visits throughout the volunteer’s duration with us.
Volunteering will expose volunteers to Thai culture as well as learning about management of domesticated Asian Elephants in Thailand. It is important to learn about conservation of Asian Elephants as they are an endangered species and the issues that have caused the plummet of numbers of the Asian Elephant.
KEY VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
At the hospital:
Assist with in-patient cases
Learn to evaluate an elephant’s vital signs and physical examination
Discuss cases and treatment planning with our head vet
Medicine preparation
Administering treatment to patients
Partake in clearing the treatment area
Assisting with elephant husbandry activities:
Pre-treatment bathing
Elephant meal preparation
During mobile clinic visits:
Visiting various locations (mostly day-trip) throughout Southern Thailand where the cases are located (depends on outside request) such as:
Logging camps/ sites
Riding camps
Educational camps/ sanctuaries
Individual household
Interacting with locals and learning more about Thai rearing practices
Project Photos
ACCOMMODATION
The accommodation is on-site at the hospital.
Each bedroom is equipped with bunk beds and can accommodate 2 volunteers.
All of our bedrooms have mosquito screens, a fan, and air-conditioner. You may need to share your bedroom with other volunteers, depending on the number of volunteers in the week that you have selected.
The bathroom and shower are not ensuite. We provide a shared bathroom and cold shower facilities within the same building.
All meals are prepared by our on-site cook (except on Sundays), and are served in the pantry area. A shared fridge is available for you to use while volunteering with us. Meals are mostly Thai food.
LOCATION
Thailand requires little introduction. World famous for amazing foods, welcoming people, inspiring religions and stunning beaches. The Veterinary Centre is located 10 mins from Khok Kloi town which is about 40 minutes drive from Phuket International Airport.
Khok Kloi is a hidden gem in Thailand’s Phang Nga province, just a short drive from the bustling Khao Lak. This charming town offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic Thai experience. One of the main attractions is Natai Beach, known for its pristine sands and tranquil waters. It’s the perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, or enjoying picturesque sunsets. The area also serves as a gateway to Phang Nga Bay, where you can explore stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and iconic sites like James Bond Island.
Khok Kloi is rich in local culture, with vibrant markets offering a variety of authentic Thai street food and fresh seafood. The town’s temples provide a glimpse into the spiritual life of the community, featuring beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens. The friendly locals add to the town’s charm, welcoming visitors with warmth and hospitality. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Khok Kloi is a delightful destination that promises unforgettable memories and a genuine Thai experience.
ASSOCIATED COST:
2025 cost:
1 week: £648
2 weeks: £1,296
3 weeks: £1,944
4 weeks: £2,592
2026 cost:
1 week: £713
2 weeks: £1,426
3 weeks: £2,139
4 weeks: £2,852
In order to provide you with a fun, safe and rewarding stay, we have a project fee to cover your accommodation, food, and all transfers when staying with us. This cost also allows you to be covered by our public liability and professional indemnity insurance. We do not charge for your training or spending time with our vets. So you can focus on having an amazing time and we will take care of the rest.
Want to know what’s included? Great news, it is pretty much everything! Including your:
Pre-departure assistance
Accommodation on site at the hospital
3 delicious meals a day
24-hour support on every project and at the volunteer accommodation by onsite staff
OUR PRICES EXCLUDE:
Airport collection and returns (B800 each way, 40 minutes in a private taxi that we will arrange for you).
Visas
Personal medical insurance
Flights
PROJECT SPECIFICS
AGE: 18 - 65 years old
QUALIFICATIONS: Open to qualified vets, nurses, technicians and veterinary students in 4th year or higher. We also welcome vet tech/nurse students.
START DATES
The program is offered all year round, however, the start of the volunteer’s session begins on Monday and ends on a Friday. The volunteer program is offered at 1 week minimum and 4 weeks maximum.
Volunteer feedback
WHAT NEXT?
We want you to join us in Thailand, to help the elephants and have the adventure of a lifetime. Sound good? If you think you can assist this project, please click the "apply now" button and we will be in touch with you shortly.
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