Warning: Some readers may find details in this article distressing.
More than 20 street dogs have been poisoned in Soi 88, Hua Hin, in what is suspected to be a deliberate act linked to land clearance for construction. At least ten dogs have died, with several more missing and presumed dead.
The dogs were part of a long-running sterilisation and care programme led by Caroline Meier and her team at Caro’s World – The Way of Magic. The group has successfully vaccinated and sterilised over 90% of the area’s stray dog population, while providing daily feeding and medical support.
The suspected poisoning occurred overnight between 22 and 23 July. Local feeders had last seen the dogs in good health at around 8.30pm on the 22nd. The distressing discovery was made early the following morning by a concerned resident, who alerted Caro’s World.
Dog poisoning in Hua Hin raises alarm among animal welfare groups
Ten dogs were found dead at the scene, while another ten are missing and believed to have crawled into nearby bushes or water holes before succumbing. The site is difficult to fully access, making recovery efforts challenging. Around 15 dogs are thought to have survived without ingesting the poison.
One severely affected dog, named King, was taken to a veterinary clinic but passed away after two days in intensive care. No other poisoned animals survived.
In an email to Hua Hin Today, a spokesperson for Caro’s World said that while veterinarians have suspicions about the substance used, they prefer not to disclose the details in order to avoid encouraging copycat incidents.
The organisation reported the matter to the local police. However, due to the absence of witnesses or direct evidence, progress in identifying those responsible has been limited.
Residents urged to report suspicious activity and help raise awareness
The group believes the poisoning may be connected to land development activity in the area. “This case appears to have been calculated and cruel – a silent attack on voiceless animals,” the spokesperson wrote.
Caro’s World operates a sanctuary in Hua Hin and works in partnership with FixEmAll to offer free sterilisation services to low-income residents. Their team regularly catches, sterilises, and vaccinates street dogs and provides care to sick or injured animals.
The public is being urged to report any suspicious behaviour, support animal welfare efforts, and spread the word about available sterilisation services. Anyone in need of assistance with unsterilised pets is encouraged to reach out.
Dogs available for adoption can be visited at the sanctuary, while adoptable cats are housed at the group’s cat café, Lynx Pawradise.
Caro’s World relies entirely on donations and sponsorships to continue its work.
