Life as a Street Dog in Thailand: A Journey of Hope

Welcome to Pariah Dogs Koh Samui

The Pariah Dog shelter provides hope for strays and street dogs

Life as a street dog in Thailand is tough, but there is hope! These wonderful dogs have found shelter at Pariah Dogs on the island of Koh Samui. Smart, loving, and full of fun, these dogs all have a story to tell of overcoming the odds, including surviving cobra attacks and car accidents. Come and meet these amazing dogs who are looking for their forever homes!

The Struggles of Street Dogs

Street dogs in Thailand face numerous challenges. Often, they are injured, sick, or abandoned by their owners. Many landowners take a dislike to the dogs living on their property and threaten to poison them if they are not removed. This is a sad reality that happens all too often.

A Safe Haven at Pariah Dogs

Life as a street dog in Thailand is tough, but there is hope!  These wonderful dogs have found shelter at Pariah Dogs on the island of Koh Samui.  Smart, loving and full of fun, these dogs all have a story to tell of overcoming the odds including surviving cobra attacks and car accidents. Come and meet these amazing dogs who are looking for their forever homes!  This IS an adoption emergency!  Please Please Please share this video with animal lovers and people with a heart for rescue dogs. We need to get the word out! Lets save these dogs together!

At Pariah Dogs Koh Samui, we provide a safe refuge for these dogs until we can find them their forever homes. Our team of kind-hearted humans works tirelessly to train and enrich the lives of these dogs. Let’s go and meet some of them!

Meet Ernie

Ernie came to the shelter with mange. He had no fur, just his little ribs sticking out, and big bright eyes gazing up at us. Luckily, mange can be treated! His owner called him Gollum, but we figured he is much too handsome for that now, so he is called Ernie.

Meet Jackson

Jackson is a sweet little girl who had a small operation on her paw. It has healed nicely, and she is a good girl, aren’t you, Jackson?

Meet Pickle

Pickle was badly abused, but once you gain his trust, he is the softest and most cuddly dog you could meet.

Meet the Skunk Sisters

Gizmo, Gemma, and Jojo are known as the Skunk Sisters because they all have the same little white stripe. They have had it since they were pups.

Meet Waggy Maggie

Maggie, also known as Waggy Maggie because of her tail helicopters, survived a cobra attack. We have lost a few dogs to cobras, which is very sad, but Maggie is a survivor.

Meet TJ

TJ is a very affectionate and clever dog who learns everything asked of him by the trainer. He loves going out for his walks and is looking forward to trying out the new agility course at Pariah Dogs.

Meet Sandra and BangBang

Sandra is a sweet dog with a few gray whiskers, and BangBang has a story behind his name. Both dogs are affectionate and looking for their forever homes.

Meet Mopsie and Pro

Mopsie has beautiful big ears, and Pro, one of our tripods, was hit on the roads and left to die. His leg was badly damaged, and the vets had to amputate it, but he is getting around pretty well now.

Meet Alex and Betsy

Alex and Betsy are only 5 months old and were abandoned when their owners left Koh Samui. They are sweet and affectionate young pups looking for a loving family.

Watch the incredible stories of some of these dogs who are overcoming the odds, and are now waiting for their forever homes:

Life as a street dog in Thailand is tough, but there is hope! 

Learn More

Learn more about the amazing work Pariah Dogs Samui does with these rescue dogs and street dogs on the Vet Around The World YouTube channel.

Check out the Pariah Dog website to learn more and see how you can help. Pariah Dog Samui | Koh Samui Dog Rescue & Shelter

Let’s save these dogs together! 🐶❤️

Brain Games for Dogs: A Day at Pariah Dogs Rescue Shelter

Hello dog people!! Today, we are visiting Pariah Dogs Dog Rescue in Koh Samui, and we have two incredible rescue dogs with us: Betty and Colin. They’ve come a long way from their tough beginnings, and we’re here to share their heartwarming stories. But first, let’s dive into some dog brain games DIY style!

Betty and Colin are going to steal the show with their street smarts and cuteness! 🐾🎥❤️

The Importance of Dog Enrichment Training

Dog enrichment training, also known as brain training, is crucial for dogs living in a shelter. Mental stimulation and physical activity give dogs an outlet for their energy in a rescue shelter, which can be stressful for dogs living with so many other dogs competing for their carers’ attention.

Why Enrichment Training Matters

Enrichment training helps prevent negative behavior patterns such as barking and anxiety. It encourages dogs to express their natural behaviors, making them happier and more balanced.

Watch the heartwarming story over on our You Tube channel

About Pariah Dog Koh Samui

Pariah Dog Koh Samui is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray dogs on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand. They provide shelter, medical care, and food to dogs in need, as well as work to control the population through spay and neuter programs.

Facilities at the Pariah Dog Shelter and Rescue Center

Pariah Dogs have an amazing set up - dogs have large open-air enclosures where they can run and play in small groups specifically chosen so all dogs have a best friend to keep them company. There are roofed areas, kennels and dog beds for everyone to choose from, and there is an indoor area with smaller pens for dogs who are unwell or need a closer eye kept on them. There is a jungle trail at the back of the shelter for on lead trail walks, and they have a purpose-built dog training and enrichment area, fully fenced to keep the dogs safe while their trainers and carers work with them. Come on Betty and Colin, time to play some brain games for dogs!

Brain Game Challenges are so much fun for dogs!

Betty Takes on the Christmas Box Challenge

The Challenge

Betty, our street dog superstar, is up for a challenge! Can she nail the Christmas box challenge? Let’s find out! High reward treats are hidden in boxes filled with streamers and tinsel. Such a new experience for dogs like Betty, who came to the shelter with a nasty machete wound! Betty has to sniff the treats out - a natural dog behavior that keeps her busy!

Can she learn this new challenge?!

Step-by-Step

1. Betty Approaches the Box: Betty was once a neglected and abused dog. But now, she’s ready to conquer this festive obstacle. We have hidden high reward dog trats in cardboard boxes filled with streamers an tinsel.

2. Betty’s Attempt: This is a new trick for Betty, she is not sure what she is supposed to do, but she can smell those doggy dried liver snacks. Will she jump in? Or maybe she’ll surprise us with a clever twist!

3. Betty Investigates the Box: Betty as to sniff and dig around to find her reward. How many titbits can she find? The suspense is killing us!

4. Betty’s Triumphant Moment: The treasure is at the bottom of the box and Betty has to root around to get to it. And there she goes! Betty, you’ve aced it!

Encouraging dogs to express their natural behavior through enrichment training activities like this helps prevent negative behavior patterns such as barking.

The Snuffle Mat Puzzle

We hide some tasty treats in the pockets and flaps of this puzzle mat. Can Betty nail the Snuffle mat puzzle? It looks like she remembers this trick from her last brain training session! You are not supposed to watch where we hide them, Betty!

Betty is trying to find the treats!

Benefits of Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is essential for all pets. It keeps dogs engaged, calmer, and they feel less stressed. What is your favorite brain game or enrichment training activity that you enjoy with your dog?

Colin’s Cute New Trick

Introducing Colin

Now, let’s meet Colin, another lovable rescue dog. Colin has been through a lot, but she’s eager to learn something adorable and show off in front of Betty. Colin has seen this tug toy ring before, but today’s new brain game is to ask her to poke her nose through the ring for her favorite food reward. It may seem a simple task, but it is asking Colin to trust us and the toy while she tries to problem solve.

Colin, you are a Super Star street dog!

Step-by-Step

1. Introducing the Trick: Colin, can you learn a cute new trick? We show her the tug toy ring, and tempt her with a treat to encourage her to move closer.

2. Training Session: We’ve been working on this special trick. Each time Colin succeed in earning a reward, we make it a little harder for her.

3. Colin’s Attempt: Look at that concentration! Will she get it right? We repeat this trick several times, but make sure she finishes with a positive feeling of success and achievement.

4. Colin’s Success: Ta-da! Colin, you’re a star! She has this tirck down pat now, and has to show Betty how it is done.

The Impact of Enrichment Training

While this is a super cute trick for dogs to learn, this enrichment training teaches dogs useful behaviors and makes them more appealing to potential adopters. Both Betty and Colin are working hard on their training so they can find their forever homes!

Why Training Matters

Enrichment training not only helps dogs learn new tricks but also builds their confidence and trust in humans. This makes them more adoptable and ready for their forever homes.

Betty and Colin remind us that every dog has a story, and with love, patience, and training, they can overcome anything. Whether it’s a challenge or a cute trick, these Pariah dogs are proof that rescue dogs are extraordinary

A Happy Ending

Betty and Colin remind us that every dog has a story, and with love, patience, and training, they can overcome anything. Whether it’s a challenge or a cute trick, these activities enrich their lives and prepare them for a brighter future.

Check out the full video starring Betty and Colin, the two street dogs from Thailand, by visiting out You Tube Channel:

And don’t forget to subscribe to the Vet Around The World You Tube channel to be the first to find out if it is Betty or Colin who gets adopted first!

Thank you for joining us on this heartwarming journey at Pariah Dogs Dog Rescue. Stay tuned for more stories and tips on dog enrichment training! 🐶📚✨

A veterinarian’s dream job…

In my last post, I introduced you to Paulo, a sailor turned animal rescuer in Coron Island, Philippines. Today, I want to share how Paulo’s journey has inspired me to continue pursuing my dream of providing veterinary care to animals and their carers who struggle to access veterinary services.

Animal Rescue

During my visit to Paulo’s houseboat, we had many conversations about our shared passion for animals. Paulo’s dedication to helping the animals of Coron Island, despite the lack of resources and support, deeply moved me. It reminded me that every little bit of help counts and that we can make a significant difference in the lives of these animals.

After leaving Coron Island, I will myself in the Gili Islands in Indonesia, working with an organization that brings vets from different countries to volunteer. We arere conducting a trap-neuter-release (TNR) program, getting cats neutered and treated. Knowing the impact of this work, I couldn’t help but think about how useful it would be if we could set up something similar in Coron Island.

Sick cat Greece, in desperate need of veterinary care.

Imagine if we could connect with logistics, find a location, set up tables, and get medication. I believe many vets would be willing to come here and spend a week or two, doing what needs to be done for the animals. This would be a game-changer for places like Coron Island, where there are 7000 islands and veterinary services are a problem everywhere.

I shared this dream with Paulo, and he was excited about the idea. He admitted that he didn’t have any experience in this area and that he started his rescue work only two years ago. But he was eager to learn and believed that this could help solve many problems, such as setting up an adoption program, facilitating international adoptions, and organizing vaccinations.

Meeting Paulo and seeing his dedication to helping animals has further encouraged me to pursue my dream. I know this journey will have its challenges, including dealing with visas, medical supplies, logistics, and accommodation. But as Paulo says, if everyone does a little bit to help, then the world will be a better place.

Help Save the Animals

So, if you want to help the animals, please consider adopting your next fur family member, volunteering for an animal rescue, or showing street dogs and cats some love. And if you ever find yourself in the Philippines, consider booking a stay at Paolyn Houseboats. Not only will you have a unique experience, but you’ll also be supporting Paulo’s incredible work.

Watch the full episode with Paulo documenting his incredible travel stories and see the amazing work he does for the animals and the people of the Philippines over on our You Tube channel.

Heartwarming Animal Rescue Stories…

A Sailor’s Journey: From World Traveller to Animal Rescuer

Hello, fellow animal lovers and adventurers! Today, I want to share with you an inspiring story that touched my heart. It’s about a man named Paulo, a sailor who gave up his life of sailing around the world to help people and animals in need.

A tail of waves and whiskers…

Paulo’s journey began on his sailboat, single-handedly sailing around the world. His travels took him to Samoa, Vanuatu, Solomon, Kiribas, and Tuvalu. During his visits, he would often go ashore at the crack of dawn to provide food and medicine for dogs and cats suffering from mange. But he noticed that once he left, these animals would return to their previous lives, with no one to care for them.

Despite living on a boat, Paulo never kept pets on board due to strict quarantine restrictions in countries like New Zealand and Australia. However, he deeply regretted this decision when he started rescuing animals. The first two he rescued went on board with him, and they gave him so much love and affection that he wished he had brought pets on board sooner.

His sailing journey eventually led him to a special place – Coron Island in the Philippines – where he decided to stay. This decision marked a significant change in his life, but it also gave him the opportunity to help in a more substantial way.

In Coron, Paulo built a houseboat to live in while not sailing. The houseboat, named Paolyn Houseboats, became so popular among friends and family that it turned into a thriving business. Paulo employed people from the local Tagbanua Tribe, providing them with job opportunities they wouldn’t have had otherwise.

But Paulo’s love for animals didn’t stop there. He adores cats and has ten of them living with him on the houseboat. He even shares his bed with them! Paulo has also rescued several cats and dogs from the streets, providing them with the medical care they desperately needed.

No vet near me!

Unfortunately, veterinary services are almost nonexistent on Coron Island. The nearest veterinary clinic is more than four hours away by ferry. Paulo has been fortunate to receive support from two veterinarians from Manila who were visiting as guests. They continue to assist him remotely, providing advice and guidance.

Despite these challenges, Paulo remains dedicated to helping the animals of Coron. He has even built a shelter, Paulo and April’s Rescue Center, where animals can run, play, and receive care. He also helps pet owners who can’t afford medical treatment for their pets.

However, without an adoption program, the shelter remains full, limiting the number of animals that can be helped. Paulo dreams of setting up an international adoption program, but the logistics are challenging. It’s almost impossible to find an airline that will allow animals to travel by air within the Philippines, even in cargo.

Despite these obstacles, Paulo remains hopeful and continues to do what he can to help the animals of Coron. His story is a testament to the power of love and compassion, and it serves as a reminder that we can all make a difference in our own way.

Paulo has inspired me to continue pursuing my dream for providing veterinary care to those animals and pet carers who need it both!

Check out our You Tube episode for the full story