Pattaya steps up sterilisation efforts with stray dogs

Thailand’s eastern city of Pattaya is stepping up its sterilisation efforts with stray dogs roaming the city’s streets and beaches.

Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet deployed teams of veterinarians and environmental health experts from the Department of Public Health and Environment, Pattaya Mail reported yesterday. These teams have been assigned to clean the beaches regularly and implement regular sterilisation programmes within the communities to control the stray dog population.

A resident of Jomtien Beach, Choco, noted that the problem of stray dogs often arises from individuals adopting these animals without considering the long-term commitment involved. As the puppies grow older and lose their initial appeal, some owners tend to abandon them, perpetuating the cycle of stray dog proliferation and creating challenges for the community as a whole.

Residents can stay informed about sterilisation programmes by following updates on the Pattaya mayor’s official Facebook page, or by reaching out to the 1337 Pattaya Call Center for additional information.

By spaying and neutering dogs, the city aims to prevent the birth of more stray puppies and gradually reduce the overall number of stray dogs on the streets and beaches of Pattaya.

The initiative will hopefully not only address concerns of public safety and cleanliness, but also create a better environment.

Thailand has numerous problems with stray animals.

Last month, a pack of stray dogs intimidated two foreign tourists on Ao Nang Beach in Krabi province.

On March 11, there was another incident with stray dogs on Ao Nang Beach, when one dog bit a tourist. The tourist’s medical expenses to treat his wound ended up costing him over 20,000 baht.

In 2017, it was estimated that there were 860,000 stray dogs and cats in Thailand. That’s more than double the 350,000 in a decade earlier in 2007. Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, the deputy director-general of Thailand’s Department of Livestock Development predicted that in 2027, Thailand would have “as many as two million stray dogs and cats in 2027 and five million in 2037.”