The haves and have-nots - Animals Talk - shelter cares for stray dogs in Thailand - Editorial

Animals, Fall, 2002 by Paula Abend

As Americans, we enjoy advantages and privileges that many others can only dream about. But have you ever thought that the same is true for many of our pets?

For those of us who enjoy sharing our lives with animal companions, Marty Becker and Danelle Morton's "The Intimate Pet Owner" (page 6) is a treasure trove of tips that can help us get closer to our pets. Follow them and you are sure to have a healthier, happier pet. In a world beset by too much cruelty and violence, providing a life of security, affection, and devoted care to a pal that loves you unconditionally feels mighty good. Still, where else but in a country like the United States would you find a person willing to warm a towel solely for the pleasure of a cat?

Certainly, such a notion would seem weird in Thailand, where cats are rarely thought of as pets and homeless dogs are lucky to be dropped off at a Buddhist temple. In an excerpt from her new book, Search for the Golden Moon Bear, contributing editor Sy Montgomery reveals the good works performed by the Thai Society for the Conservation of Wild Animals (TSCWA). Visiting bears at the Banglamung Wildlife Breeding Center, Montgomery found a unique team of volunteers who care for about 200 homeless dogs. The sheltering takes place side by side with restoration efforts for species wounded by Asia's illegal wildlife trade.

Often dogs arriving at Banglamung are in awful condition. The supply of good homes is limited. Cultural differences result in attitudes toward animals that may not be easily understood by Westerners, and running a shelter without running water is, to say the least, challenging.

Readers wishing to help the dogs at Banglamung can write to: Thai Society for the Conservation of Wild Animals, 32 Prathum Court, 85/3-8 Sol Rajaprarop, Makkasan Bangkok 10400, Thailand, or visit its Web site at www.tscwa.org.

Through the Gus W. Thornton President's Fund and through its international affiliates, the World Society for the Protection of Animals and the American Fondouk, the MSPCA supports many programs that help pets and bolster animal protection outside the United States.

The needs in many countries are glaring; yet despite all this, there is something sadly familiar in the stories of Thailand's strays, echoes of suffering heard even in the shelters of our affluent nation.

Paula Abend

Editor