Working with elephants is one of the most popular volunteer activities in Thailand. And for good reason, these (amaze) creatures are huge, cute, and very intelligent. Often elephants (look) on as gentle animals, but it's good to remember that this isn't always the case. (sad), many elephants have faced terrible treatment, beaten into (give) performances or overworked at moneyhungry tourist attractions. A terriblytreated elephant can become angry and kill if it feels threatened.
All that being said, volunteering for elephant (protect) can be a very rewarding experience. The important thing is to find the right opportunity. There are number of elephant sanctuaries (动物保护区) and parks, especially in Thailand. There you can do meaningful work (improve) the lives of elephants. The key is to do your research and watch out for places promise you big money.
If the volunteer organization seems to be paying more attention elephant rides and the elephants giving performances, be careful it is probably not a place with the elephants' best interests in mind.
