The reason why animals are neglected and left to starve is complex, but we can all agree that it should never happen.
Animal shelters and rescue centers are often overcrowded, and their staff is frequently faced with the heartbreaking dilemma of having to euthanize dogs that nobody wants to adopt in order to make room for more unwanted ones.
Many people initially take on animals with good intentions, but their circumstances change, and they find themselves unable to properly care for them.
A group of rescuers from Watchdog Thailand, along with the Pathum Thani Livestock Development Office’s Animal Welfare division, encountered a shocking scene during a raid on a property in Thailand. The dogs’ owner was located, and local veterinarian Kangwan Thirathamrong spoke to her.
“The owner claimed that she didn’t harm the dogs and still fed them, but due to being unemployed and facing financial problems, they suffered,” explained the veterinarian. According to the organization, the farm owner attempted to breed the dogs for sale but couldn’t find buyers. He refused to give the dogs away, stating that he didn’t want them to burden others and that they could perish on their own.
The photos caught the attention of the country’s King Rama X, who agreed to adopt all of the animals and cover the cost of their ongoing treatment and care.
A palace aide sent by King Rama X assisted in transporting the 13 starving Great Danes, rescued by an animal welfare organization, to a hospital on Wednesday. “His Majesty always takes pity on animals,” a representative from Watchdog Thailand said. “He is a fan of Watchdog Thailand.”
“His Majesty has kindly adopted these dogs, and they will be taken care of at the bureau’s dog care center after they recover their health,” said Department of Livestock Development deputy director-general Somchuan Rattanamangkhalanon on Wednesday.
“Then, we’ll see if the owner is financially ready to take them back, but if not, we’ll look for any dog lovers who are willing to care for them.”
The 13 surviving dogs, including five males, were taken to Kasetsart University’s animal hospital in Bangkok. According to The Mirror article, His Majesty the King of Thailand has ordered his household to adopt all of the Great Danes.