On a daily basis our elephants are washed with a special soap that contains oil. The oil in the soap helps to moisturize their skin. At least twice and sometimes three times a day our elephants are brushed off in preparation for being in the show. We use long handled brooms to brush of the elephants' skin. Note: the name 'Pachyderm' refers to the thick skin of the elephant (pachys: thick; derma: skin). The thickness of the skin varies from very thin on the inside of the ears and around the mouth to about 2.5cm. on the elephant's back and head. During our performance we have a parade of performers and animals. This parade is called "Spec," which is short for spectacular, and in this parade some of our elephants wear ornate blankets and are ridden by costumed performers. Elephants love to play in water, and as often as possible they are allowed to play in a nearby stream, pond, or lake. Most of the elephants truly enjoy these opportunities, but we still have a few who would rather not venture into the water. Like some humans some are a little water shy. Elephants are said to have sweat glands between their toes but they keep cool by bathing and flapping their ears. The skin around the elephants' eyes is very sensitive and we put a vaseline around their eyes to help protect them. We do this at least every two days or as often as it is needed.