Rescue workers and local authorities in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, are racing to save more than 20 dogs trapped inside a deep water storage pit after they became unable to climb out. Several of the animals were reported to be exhausted after being stranded for days, while soma others had already died inside the pit.
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The situation came to public attention after a Facebook user named “Nueng Lamnarai Lopburi” posted an appeal for help on social media. The user reported that more than 20 dogs had jumped into a water retention pit in the Khao Mai Kaew area near an elephant camp in Chon Buri province. The dogs were unable to escape because the pit was lined with slippery PE sheeting.
According to the post, many of the dogs repeatedly tried to climb out but failed. Some had become weak after spending several days trapped inside the pit, while the bodies of other dogs had begun to produce a strong odour in the surrounding area. The poster suggested that a long rope arranged like a rope ladder could help the animals climb to safety.
Following the social media appeal, numerous users shared the information and called for rescue organisations and relevant authorities to intervene. The case quickly attracted wider attention online, prompting an official response.
Reporters later visited the site in Khao Mai Kaew subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri. Officials from Bang Lamung district, Khao Mai Kaew Municipality, community leaders, local council members and rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Foundation joined efforts to assess the situation and plan the rescue operation.
Investigators found that the pit covered approximately 20 rai and had been excavated for water storage purposes. The entire interior surface was lined with black sheeting, making it impossible for the trapped dogs to gain traction and climb out. Dozens of dogs were observed scattered across different areas of the pit.
Rescue teams developed a plan to herd the dogs into a confined area before administering sedatives, using tranquilliser darts, to allow them to be safely captured and removed. During the first phase of the operation, five dogs were successfully rescued from the pit.
SiàmRath reported that officials said more than 10 dogs remained inside and rescue efforts would continue. Authorities and rescue workers are expected to remain at the site until all surviving dogs have been brought to safety.
Pictures courtesy of SiamRath
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Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamRath 20 June 2026