Dogs Locked Up in Bangkok House Without Food Eat Body of Dead Owner
The shocking and tragic story of a group of dogs surviving in dire circumstances has emerged from a suburb of Bangkok, Thailand. Over two dozen canines were discovered trapped in a locked house, resorting to extreme measures to survive after their owner died from medical conditions. The incident highlights significant issues surrounding animal welfare, human health crises, and the sometimes heartbreaking bond between pets and their owners.
Discovery of the Scene
The grim reality came to light when concerned neighbor Sompong Phasuksri alerted local authorities after noticing that 62-year-old Attapol Charoenpithak's car had not moved for several days. Attapol, who had been living alone, was known to frequent the local market daily. When Phasuksri rang the doorbell with no response, despite seeing lights on in the house, his suspicions deepened.
That's when police were called in. Upon entering the house, they were met with a shocking spectacle: the interior was strewn with garbage and evidence of neglect. The overwhelming stench led them to the discovery of Attapol’s body, which had been lying there for at least a week due to medical issues including diabetes and hypertension.
The Dogs' Desperation
With Attapol deceased, the dogs were left without care and nourishment. Thai police reported that the dogs, a mix of Chihuahua and Shih Tzu breeds, were found in an appalling state of distress. While many surrounded their deceased owner, desperate for any sustenance, the grim reports maintain that some had resorted to consuming the body for survival, including a claim that “left leg of the owner” was a food source.
This morbidly tragic situation escalated the urgency for a swift rescue operation. The police wasted no time in contacting the Voice Foundation, a local animal rescue group renowned for their work with abandoned and abused pets.
Rescue Efforts
Over the weekend, the Voice Foundation mobilized a team to rescue the neglected dogs. A total of 28 dogs were saved, but the rescue was not without loss; two of the dogs had perished, unable to survive the harsh conditions of confinement and starvation.
The rescue team was initially met with the sight of nearly 15 dogs clustered around Attapol's body, and as they conducted a thorough search, they found more dogs dispersed throughout the garbage-filled home. Videos shared by the charity captured the frightened canines as they were brought to safety, illustrating the harrowing reality of their ordeal and their obvious relief upon being freed.
Aftermath and Rehabilitation
Once recovered, the dogs were taken to a veterinary hospital for health evaluations, treatment, and spaying. Reports indicate that they were in a weakened state, suffering from dehydration and malnutrition. The Voice Foundation, who has invested in their rehabilitation, asked for public donations to help cover the costs associated with their care, labeling the pets as “children” that needed tender loving attention in the wake of such a traumatic experience.
Rescuer Supawadee Srithassanakarn announced that the dogs would undergo thorough health checks to ensure they can find new homes after their recovery. This incident has prompted discussions about the need for better advocacy for vulnerable animals as well as mechanisms for community intervention when an owner cannot care for their pets.
Broader Implications
The heartbreaking story of Attapol Charoenpithak and his dogs serves as a grim reminder of the interconnectedness of human lives and the lives of our pets. It sheds light on the pressing need for community awareness and support systems for individuals living with health issues, particularly those that may affect their ability to care for dependents, both human and animal.
As the dogs continue their journey towards recovery and a chance at new homes, this story advocates for greater responsibility and compassion within our communities, ensuring no animal is left to suffer in silence. The rescue speaks volumes about the dedication of volunteers and animals rights organizations, reaffirming a collective commitment to the welfare of our four-legged friends.