On our last trip to Bangkok, we were at the Central pier everyday in order to catch the water taxi. While waiting for the next boat, we started to notice several adorable dogs either sleeping in the pier area or just hanging out. Being serious dog lovers (The Dogs of Santorini) we desperately wanted to play with them, but it’s usually not a good idea to pet homeless dogs. Over the course of several days we noticed that the same dogs were there every day and even started naming them. These good natured and gorgeous pups though have an extremely hard life.
According to Soi Dog Rescue, a Bangkok based animal welfare group, there are an estimated 300,000 stray dogs in Bangkok. Many times the dogs are killed in an attempt to control the population. The real key to controlling the pet population is to have these animals spayed and neutered. That is the only way to stop the cycle of animal suffering.
Bangkok is not alone in this phenomenon, most cities around the world suffer the same problem. Usually, there are animal welfare organizations in these areas where you can contribute either your time or money to help them make a difference. Whether you are a casual traveler or a serious backpacker, there are many ways you can help while on the road. Seek out these organizations and offer whatever support you can. No matter what you are able to do, it will make a huge difference.
This is one of the hard things about Buenos Aires too. When we were there, we would see stray dogs everywhere, most notably in tourist areas. It was a sad sight as most never paid attention or offered the emaciated dogs any food. Particularly frustrating was going to a dog park and seeing stray dogs trying to mingle with the domesticated dogs, and the owners would shove the strays away.
That was a sad thing to see in so many places we have visited, particularly in developing countries. As a dog love myself, it was heartbreaking to see so many homeless dogs that were living such a bad life. Glad there are organizations out there helping, but so much more needs to be done.
I am a very serious dog person. How do you not try and take them all home? I think I would get weepy.
I’m so glad Bangkok is doing something! Little by little, we can make a huge difference in the next 10 years or so. Doesn’t it break your heart how they become best friends with each other? When i took mine home a few weeks ago, he came in a package with his best buddy. They were/are literally inseparable. I can’t imagine what they’ve been through together. My vet estimated that my bigger dog was about six years old, which she said is pretty old for a street to make it. They must’ve been pretty tough out there! But once you rescue them, they are so grateful and become so attached. It is so rewarding!
Good for you……….thanks for helping!
Great article, it’s a serious problem all around Thailand, also a problem on the roads, any major road travel you do you ALWAYS encounter numerous dead dogs on the roadsides, which just compounds the already dangerous task of driving in Thailand!.
Best Wishes
Kevin
That is so sad. Doesn’t seeing them everyday just make you want to take them home? Certainly they can get attached to you if they think you are going to help them and feed them. :( Poor babies.
oh definitely. I wish we could adopt at least a few! But luckily there is a strong community there working to help them. Just a reminder to all of us to try to help when we travel.