Staff Writer
It has been estimated that there are over 100,000
stray dogs in Bangkok, despite numerous efforts to
deal with the problem by the city administration (Bangkok Metropolitan Administration [BMA]) and other governmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations.
Scad (Soi Cats and Dogs) Bangkok focuses its efforts on animal birth control (ABC) and raising awareness within the city's community through education.
Breaking down barriers
Animal birth control is carried out through the collection and sterilization of cats and dogs from communities, according to Arjvipa Pongvittayatorn ('Amm'), Scad's fundraising manager.
Amm says the organization works closely with people looking after stray animals within the community so that word spreads about the success of Scad's Catch-Neuter-Return (CNR) program. Since the majority of Thais are Buddhists and are largely against the idea of sterilization initially, Amm says that the CNR program demonstrates that on a practical level it benefits everyone, including the animals.
This writer was somewhat cynical about the potential for success in dealing with the problem of stray cats and dogs in Bangkok, but I must confess that I was impressed by Amm's determination and positive outlook.
“It's really a case of education and getting the people who look after these strays to see for themselves how successful it can be,” she says.
Amm said that despite the 'cultural' barrier, people who are responsible for looking after large numbers of strays quickly begin to see the practical results of the CNR program. After all, if the strays are allowed to continue breeding, the person looking after the animals can suddenly have a large number of new mouths to feed.
Amm says that every animal passing through Scad's program is vaccinated against rabies Disease, infection, malnutrition, mange and parasites are all treated before an animal is released back into the community.
 
Spreading the word
Through liaison with the community, volunteer opportunities at Scad's centers, and discussions in schools and colleges, Scad aims to reduce pet abandonment, foster compassion for strays, and share information about animal welfare within the city.
Scad also has a very active adoption program, which Amm points out is particularly careful when screening candidates.
“We check candidates very carefully to ensure they've really thought things through before making the commitment,” she said. “Our team works with potential adopters to ensure the best possible match.”
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Amm says that people who already own pets but are considering adopting another one are encouraged first to bring along their animals to ensure compatibility.
Financial support
While Scad has been very successful in finding ways to fund its important work, it is always looking at other potential sources of funding.
People buying products from Scad's two stores – ReTails Store (Lake Ratchada Shopping Complex) and ReTails Too (at its center at Soi Pridi Phanomyong 42 on Sukhumvit Soi 71) – are providing one form of revenue, while members of the public who can make a regular monthly contribution (of about 800 baht [about US$23). This figure can be a bit prohibitive (expensive) in terms of less affluent Thai people, so Amm says Scad is now offering a 'lite' version of this program, which is more affordable for Thais (Tel: +66 [0]2 713 2635 for further details).
Amm says that while the organization was founded by an expat (British national Sherry Conisbee) in 2002, and expats played a large role in the group's development, it is important that Thai people learn of its existence since ultimately it is they who will guarantee its long-term success. Most of the people involved in the organization, including the photographer responsible for the beautiful shots accompanying this story, are volunteers, so perhaps this is another way in which readers may be able to help out Scad.
It's 'cuter to neuter'
The involvement of Miss Universe 2005 Natalie Glebova, the high-profile wife of Thai tennis ace Paradorn Srichaphan, as Scad's ambassador, is obviously another boon for the organization.
One of Glebova's key messages is, “it's cuter to neuter!”
Glebova volunteers her time to Scad, while her sports star husband is also a keen supporter, delivering the following message:
“I know the score when I play – they don't. Stop unwanted litters – sterilize your pet!”
To learn more about Scad and how to donate your money or time, visit the group's official website at http://www.scadbangkok.org/.
Photos: All photos accompanying this article were taken by Mark Stelzner.
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Life in Thailand 
Life in Thailand
Thai ways of living - be it countryside or city - have their own distinct styles, rhythms and habits. The kingdom, and especially Bangkok, is also home to an interesting variety of locals and expatriates. Learn about the views and lives of local and expatriate communities, in addition to helpful tips for those exploring and living a Life in Thailand.
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