EEHV is one of the leading causes of death in young Asian elephants, both in captivity and in the wild. This often-fatal virus can cause sudden and severe internal bleeding, with symptoms escalating rapidly—leaving only a narrow window for treatment. Without immediate medical intervention, survival is unlikely. At present, we are facing a critical situation. Several elephants in Thailand have contracted EEHV, and immediate emergency treatment has shown us success is possible. However, the cost of antiviral medication, intensive veterinary care, laboratory testing, and around-the-clock monitoring has placed an overwhelming financial strain on limited resources.

To continue this life-saving work, we urgently need to raise 500,000 baht (approximately USD 13,500). This will directly cover:

Emergency antiviral medication (acyclovir) The first dose costs 50,000 baht.
Stem cell treatment has also been used which cost 240,000 baht.
Recently a successful treatment to save the live of one young calf cost 900,000 baht. The treatment took several weeks and whole blood from several of our elephants was given for several days. The calf required 20 liters per day. As you can imagine this was a huge undertaking and involved many people to ensure the outcome.
Other expenses include
Blood testing and laboratory diagnostics
IV fluids, nutritional support, and monitoring equipment
Veterinary travel and treatment expenses

We are committed to transparency and will provide updates and reports on how the funds are used as we plan to have 3 Veterinarians sign off on spending any funds. Every baht donated will go directly to the emergency care and treatment of affected elephants.

In the meantime we are also lobbying the government for a long term solution to this issue, in the form of creating an insurance scheme for elephants, that would cover emergency treatments. Too often elephant owners are subjected to fluctuations in income and the extremely high expense of specialty treatment is not always manageable or an option, especially when the outcome is not guaranteed. A government insurance scheme would greatly benefit and encourage people to not hesitate in seeking help.

With your support, we can give these elephants a fighting chance. Thailand’s elephants are not only national symbols but also a vital part of our natural heritage—and they need your help now more than ever.