Terrifying Animal Encounter: Woman shares chilling details of her close call with Elephant
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A dream holiday to Bali quickly became a nightmare for one traveller when a seemingly innocent photo opportunity led to a harrowing experience.
Beth Bogar, a globe-trotting American from West Chesterfield, New Hampshire, became the centre of attention for all the wrong reasons during her visit to the Mason Elephant Park and Lodge.
The much-anticipated Bali holiday with her husband, Les, was off to a great start until Beth came face to face with a massive elephant. Little did she know that her up-close encounter would be one of the most terrifying experiences of her life, leaving her with lasting injuries to her arm.
Beth Bogar vividly recounts the harrowing experience when she sensed her arm being forcefully drawn into the jaws of the elephant, accompanied by the unsettling sound of bones cracking. Source: Beth Bogar
The seemingly fun photo shoot turned sour when the elephant bit Beth's arm, causing a powerful suction as her arm became trapped in the grip of its formidable jaws. 'It was like a suction, pushed into his mouth,' she said, describing the horrifying moment.
'I couldn't get my arm out. I could just hear cracking, and I started to panic,' recalled Bogar, who had been happily posing for a photo with the animal.
The photo session was conducted by the elephant's trainer, who had been giving Beth instructions on how to pose with the animal. Regrettably, his guidance led her too close to the elephant's mouth.
'I just feel as though he was guiding me, and he let my arm get too close to the animal's mouth, and I didn't know how close I was,' Beth recounted, still reeling from the event.
She was rushed to a hospital over an hour away, where she underwent emergency surgery to repair the damage.
'This is my incision. The doctor was able to go in. There are plates, there are screws, and everything is put back together. But it's going to be a long road,' Beth explained.
While this story serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of interacting with wild animals, it's important to consider the context and the broader issue of animal tourism. Elephants used for tourist activities, such as riding, often endure challenging living conditions, and experiences like this remind us to think twice before participating in such adventures.
In an effort to compensate for their unfortunate role in the incident, the resort has paid $US4,800 ($7,162 AUD) thus far towards covering Beth's medical bills, with her husband Les telling of the assurances he received: 'They were saying, “Don't worry, we have insurance, we can handle this situation. We'll get you taken care of.”’
When exploring wildlife in any region across the world, it is essential to maintain respect for the animals and their habitat, as well as for oneself. The animal kingdom must be approached cautiously, as even docile-looking creatures may have a hidden temper that can be triggered by several factors.
When interacting with animals, it is advisable not to get too close or make sudden movements that startle them. Loud voices should also be avoided, while basic safety is also key, such as only visiting established landmarks and keeping away from areas that may be potentially dangerous. It is important to understand the normal behaviour of an animal and to be aware that any action can cause a reaction.
When it comes to ethical animal tourism, there are many factors that should be taken into consideration. It is important to research any place you plan to visit and to check if the animal welfare and safety of the species are given priority. Tourists should also be aware of the animal's natural behaviour and should not stimulate them or treat them in a negative way. Above all, visitors should be mindful and work to carefully preserve the beauty and integrity of the natural environment.
Despite the awful circumstances surrounding the incident, Beth has shown incredible courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Her story is a stark reminder to all travellers to always exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks when engaging with animals.
To our dear readers, we are eagerly awaiting your thoughts on the story. We value your opinions and would appreciate hearing your perspective on it. Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we urge you to make choices carefully during your overseas adventures. Always think twice about engaging in activities that could put you or the animals at risk. Safe travels!
Beth Bogar, a globe-trotting American from West Chesterfield, New Hampshire, became the centre of attention for all the wrong reasons during her visit to the Mason Elephant Park and Lodge.
The much-anticipated Bali holiday with her husband, Les, was off to a great start until Beth came face to face with a massive elephant. Little did she know that her up-close encounter would be one of the most terrifying experiences of her life, leaving her with lasting injuries to her arm.
Beth Bogar vividly recounts the harrowing experience when she sensed her arm being forcefully drawn into the jaws of the elephant, accompanied by the unsettling sound of bones cracking. Source: Beth Bogar
The seemingly fun photo shoot turned sour when the elephant bit Beth's arm, causing a powerful suction as her arm became trapped in the grip of its formidable jaws. 'It was like a suction, pushed into his mouth,' she said, describing the horrifying moment.
'I couldn't get my arm out. I could just hear cracking, and I started to panic,' recalled Bogar, who had been happily posing for a photo with the animal.
The photo session was conducted by the elephant's trainer, who had been giving Beth instructions on how to pose with the animal. Regrettably, his guidance led her too close to the elephant's mouth.
'I just feel as though he was guiding me, and he let my arm get too close to the animal's mouth, and I didn't know how close I was,' Beth recounted, still reeling from the event.
After the incident, Beth Bogar found herself burdened with medical bills amounting to $10,000. The resort, acknowledging their responsibility, agreed to cover half of the expenses. Source: Beth Bogar
She was rushed to a hospital over an hour away, where she underwent emergency surgery to repair the damage.
'This is my incision. The doctor was able to go in. There are plates, there are screws, and everything is put back together. But it's going to be a long road,' Beth explained.
While this story serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of interacting with wild animals, it's important to consider the context and the broader issue of animal tourism. Elephants used for tourist activities, such as riding, often endure challenging living conditions, and experiences like this remind us to think twice before participating in such adventures.
In an effort to compensate for their unfortunate role in the incident, the resort has paid $US4,800 ($7,162 AUD) thus far towards covering Beth's medical bills, with her husband Les telling of the assurances he received: 'They were saying, “Don't worry, we have insurance, we can handle this situation. We'll get you taken care of.”’
Tips for Responsible Animal Interactions and Ethical Animal Tourism
When exploring wildlife in any region across the world, it is essential to maintain respect for the animals and their habitat, as well as for oneself. The animal kingdom must be approached cautiously, as even docile-looking creatures may have a hidden temper that can be triggered by several factors.
When interacting with animals, it is advisable not to get too close or make sudden movements that startle them. Loud voices should also be avoided, while basic safety is also key, such as only visiting established landmarks and keeping away from areas that may be potentially dangerous. It is important to understand the normal behaviour of an animal and to be aware that any action can cause a reaction.
When it comes to ethical animal tourism, there are many factors that should be taken into consideration. It is important to research any place you plan to visit and to check if the animal welfare and safety of the species are given priority. Tourists should also be aware of the animal's natural behaviour and should not stimulate them or treat them in a negative way. Above all, visitors should be mindful and work to carefully preserve the beauty and integrity of the natural environment.
Despite the awful circumstances surrounding the incident, Beth has shown incredible courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Her story is a stark reminder to all travellers to always exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks when engaging with animals.
To our dear readers, we are eagerly awaiting your thoughts on the story. We value your opinions and would appreciate hearing your perspective on it. Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we urge you to make choices carefully during your overseas adventures. Always think twice about engaging in activities that could put you or the animals at risk. Safe travels!
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