Fire Breaks Out at Veterinary Hospital in Pattaya, Two Cats Perish

Pictures from responders.

A fire broke out at a three-storey veterinary hospital in Soi Phonpraphanimit, (Soi Siam Country Club), Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, on the morning of January 9. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze without any human casualties, although two cats lost their lives due to smoke inhalation.

The fire was reported to authorities at 07:30. Emergency services, including the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Unit and fire trucks from Nong Prue Municipality, responded promptly to the scene. The building, a commercial property consisting of two adjoining units, had smoke billowing from its windows and flames originating on the ground floor.

Upon arrival, rescue teams discovered six residents, including children, stranded on the third-floor balcony. Using an aerial hydraulic platform cage, all six were successfully rescued and brought to safety. They were treated for mild smoke inhalation but were otherwise unharmed.

The fire’s source was identified as a fish tank and shelves holding pet supplies on the ground floor, which sustained partial damage. Firefighters brought the flames under control, though smoke lingered throughout the building.

Inside the hospital, which housed numerous animals in its care, staff and rescuers found eight dogs and seven cats confined to cages. While most animals were rescued safely, two cats succumbed to smoke inhalation.

The hospital owner, 40-year-old Anusara Saisaat, recounted that she and her family were asleep when they were awakened by the smell of smoke and shouting from outside. Upon investigating, she discovered smoke filling the ground floor. She and her family fled to the third-floor balcony, where they awaited rescue.

Thanks to the swift actions of a bystander who alerted authorities, the situation was brought under control before it could escalate further. Anusara has since made arrangements for nearby veterinary facilities to provide temporary shelter and care for the surviving animals.

Authorities suspect the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Police are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident.

-- 2025-01-09