BANGKOK – A peaceful Friday morning turned into a nightmare for a 61-year-old man in Phetchabun province. Surachai Chuchaloem is currently fighting for his life in the hospital after being viciously mauled by two pit bulls.
The incident happened at a private residence in Ban Dong Khwaen village, located in the Chon Daen district. Emergency responders from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were called to the scene, where they found the victim with severe, life-threatening injuries.
The attack occurred when Mr. Surachai rode his motorcycle onto the property. He was reportedly there to retrieve a set of keys. At the time, the homeowner’s two pit bulls—one male and one female—were resting on the grounds.
According to preliminary reports, the dogs were not tied up or confined. It appears the sound of the motorcycle engine startled the sleeping animals. The dogs reacted instantly, launching a simultaneous and aggressive attack on the visitor before he could escape.
The Fight for Survival
Witnesses and rescue workers described a gruesome scene. Mr. Surachai suffered deep lacerations across his face. The dogs also targeted his arms, legs, and torso, causing extensive tissue damage and significant blood loss.
The homeowner, hearing the victim’s desperate cries for help, rushed outside to intervene. He first tried using a stick and splashing water on the dogs to break their grip, but the animals refused to let go. Eventually, the owner and several neighbors had to use a wooden pole to manually pry the dogs’ jaws open to free the man.
Rescue teams provided immediate first aid at the scene to stabilize Mr. Surachai’s condition. He was then rushed to Chon Daen Hospital for urgent surgery and specialized treatment. Medical staff have noted that the severity of the facial wounds and the volume of blood lost make his recovery particularly challenging.
Growing Safety Concerns Over Pit Bulls
This latest incident has reignited the debate over pet ownership and the management of powerful dog breeds in residential areas. Authorities in Phetchabun are now looking into whether the owners followed proper safety protocols for keeping potentially dangerous animals.
Residents are being reminded of the following safety measures:
- Secure Enclosures: Keep powerful breeds in fenced areas or on sturdy leashes.
- Warning Signs: Place visible signs at property entrances to alert visitors.
- Socialization: Ensure dogs are properly trained to reduce aggressive triggers.
- Visitor Protocol: Homeowners should ensure dogs are secured before guests or delivery workers enter the premises.
The two dogs involved in the attack have since been tied to trees on the property while local officials decide on the next steps for animal control.
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