(How strange...I am sure I posted a reply to this yesterday, and it's not here!)
Anyway....yes these stories are heart-warming. But the problem of street dogs and cats is such an overwhelming problem worldwide. The founders of the charity "Soi Dog" started as tourists in Thailand, saw the desperate need those animals were in, and packed up from Britain to go to live in Thailand and help the animals. They were moved to that extent.
It's a happy ending for those dogs and cats who were noticed by the scientists, and helped. What they can do about the rest....well that would take some organising by people devoted to creating a charity, and working hands-on every day. The scientists have to go home. They have jobs to go to.
But let's hope their stories will highlight the problem of street animals, and maybe carry over to those who are able to put some action in motion. There are many rescue groups who work tirelessly to help, all over the world.
Yes so much of the time it's a spay/neuter method of control. That helps. But what helps more than anything is "hearts and minds" and the attitudes of local people to these animals.
Also we have to bear in mind that in some countries, many animals are not treated as they would be in more "western" places. Many are "free-range" and wander the streets although they belong to someone. In some countries, veterinary facilities are very basic also and many locals cannot afford much vet care anyway (depending on which country.)
Anyway....yes these stories are heart-warming. But the problem of street dogs and cats is such an overwhelming problem worldwide. The founders of the charity "Soi Dog" started as tourists in Thailand, saw the desperate need those animals were in, and packed up from Britain to go to live in Thailand and help the animals. They were moved to that extent.
It's a happy ending for those dogs and cats who were noticed by the scientists, and helped. What they can do about the rest....well that would take some organising by people devoted to creating a charity, and working hands-on every day. The scientists have to go home. They have jobs to go to.
But let's hope their stories will highlight the problem of street animals, and maybe carry over to those who are able to put some action in motion. There are many rescue groups who work tirelessly to help, all over the world.
Yes so much of the time it's a spay/neuter method of control. That helps. But what helps more than anything is "hearts and minds" and the attitudes of local people to these animals.
Also we have to bear in mind that in some countries, many animals are not treated as they would be in more "western" places. Many are "free-range" and wander the streets although they belong to someone. In some countries, veterinary facilities are very basic also and many locals cannot afford much vet care anyway (depending on which country.)
