Dow, which in Thai, translates into ‘Star’. Dow’s life has been devoid of any star-like qualities. At 50 years old, and for all her working life, she has been in the logging and trekking industries, used to haul massive trees or carry tourists for endless miles. The physical toll on Dow has been tremendous; she was blinded in one eye and walks with a limp from a horrific logging injury. Dow’s story, as with many other elephants is full of sadness and pain.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shut down elephant trekking camps across Thailand due to the loss of tourist income. As her owner has no money, Dow came to Samui Elephant Haven: she simply had nowhere else to go. Samui Elephant Haven will provide shelter to Dow for as long as they can. Allowing her the opportunity to heal her emotional and physical wounds and reunite with her elephant friends and family.