The following article is a submission from a Pattaya News reader. Their opinions and statements are entirely their own and may not necessarily reflect those of TPN Media.
I write this as an animal lover and especially of dogs.
On Monday the 15th of April @ 06:00 hrs I began my regular walk around Mapprachan Lake utilising the walking and cycling tracks provided as I’ve always done.
The lake was very busy this particular morning as it was what I perceived to be a public holiday due to Songkran, the Thai New Year, many people were present both cycling and walking early to avoid the upcoming heat of the day.
As on many previous occasions during my walk I observed a number of Soi dogs, many of which are familiar to me as I pass them often, even to the point I have names for a few of them. I have never perceived them as a threat.
As I reached the far end of the lake inland where two roads converge adjacent to the motor x track I stopped to check my telephone, at this point I felt a sharp pain in my leg, I looked down to see a Soi dog had sunk its teeth into my left leg and was proceeding to tear at the flesh, I managed to dislodge him quickly, at this point the dog attempted to come back for more, the remainder of the pack some 5-6 dogs now excited by the commotion now also became aggressive and started moving towards me in a threatening manner, for me it was now a simple case of fight or flight, I know from my own experience that to turn and run would just increase the ferocity of the pack resulting in them chasing me in an attempt to bring me down. That would not have ended well.
Instead I chose to fight I made myself as large as possible, screamed at them with as much force as I could muster, I looked for a stick or a weapon I could use to defend myself but none was present. There was an initial stand off as the dogs were taken aback by my reaction, I wasn’t acting or scared I was genuinely enraged. During the momentary stand off I charged them and they duly withdrew and began moving away.
The attack lasted no more than a few minutes in total.
Having inspected my injuries it was clear to me that apart from the usual course of injections pertaining to a dog bite I would need surgical intervention as I was losing a lot of blood as the wounds were open and now prone to infection, two deep puncture wounds were evident with lacerations to the rear of my calf muscle. Photos of the attack are at the bottom of the article for those who wish to see them but as a caution they could disturb sensitive viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
It quickly became clear I was unable to walk back to my transport some 4 km away due to the continuing blood loss and inflammation of my leg. I called my wife to come and collect me with the aim of taking me to the nearest hospital for immediate treatment.
A number of local walkers and cyclists had heard and saw the aftermath of the attack. I would like to personally thank them for their concern and assistance to the point they wanted to drive me to the hospital.
8 days on i’ve just had the stitches removed and can move around with mild discomfort. I’ve had 3 sets of rabies vaccine with one final set to go in 2 weeks.
Putting aside the time, pain and cost of the incident what really concerns me is if this pack and certainly this particular dog attacks again. The consequences could be unthinkable, most people won’t stand and fight they will run emboldening the dogs to further aggression. God forbid a young child should be their next victim.
I want to make it clear the attack upon me was completely unprovoked and unsighted. That said, the same could happen to anyone.
Since the attack I have spoken with a number of other walkers and cyclists who have experienced aggression from this particular pack.
Something needs to be done to curb this menace. When 100% fit I will walk in the area again, this time I will be carrying a walking stick for protection. Sad but necessary.
Please be aware at all when walking Mapprachan Lake. Note: Local animal groups have also been contacted and are assisting with the situation and trying to identify the aggressive dog in particular.
Thank you, D.
Photos of the incident. Caution they could disturb sensitive viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
