Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek

Rescue workers in Sattahip, Chon Buri, jumped into a pond to save a stray dog that had been left struggling in the water for more than 10 hours after being frightened by New Year fireworks. The dog was safely brought to shore at around 11.00 on 1 January after concerned residents alerted emergency services. The incident highlighted the immediate impact of loud festive celebrations on animals across the area.

According to the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Sattahip Rescue Foundation’s radio centre, villagers reported that the dog had panicked during New Year celebrations overnight and run into a pond at the Krom Luang Chumphon Garden in Sattahip district. The animal was unable to climb out and remained afloat for an extended period. The location was near a restaurant and market area in Sattahip, increasing concern for its safety.

When rescue workers arrived, they found a male Thai-breed stray dog, black in colour and aged about seven to eight years, clinging to life in water around one metre deep. The dog was described as exhausted, visibly frightened, shaking and partially hidden among water hyacinths. Its eyes appeared cloudy, suggesting prolonged stress and fatigue from staying afloat for hours.

Two rescue workers entered the pond and secured a white cloth around the dog’s body and carefully guided it along a safe route while keeping its head above water. The dog was successfully pulled from the pond without injury. After reaching dry land, the dog immediately ran away from the scene. Rescue officials confirmed that the operation was completed safely and without harm to either the animal or personnel involved.

Local reporters noted that shortly after midnight, as the New Year began, residents and entertainment venue operators across the area set off fireworks that echoed throughout the town. The loud explosions reportedly caused widespread panic among animals living in neighbourhoods, temples and public spaces.

Several dogs and cats were reported to have fled their usual surroundings in fear. Some were said to be crying out in distress, while many dogs were reported missing after running away from homes or familiar areas during the night. The incident has drawn attention to the broader effects of celebratory fireworks on pets and stray animals.

Komchadluek reported that authorities and rescue organisations continue to respond to reports of missing or distressed animals following the New Year period. Residents are being urged to remain alert and report animals in danger so assistance can be provided quickly.

Key Takeaways

• A stray dog in Sattahip was rescued after floating in a pond for more than 10 hours following New Year fireworks.

• The animal was safely recovered by two rescue workers.

• Fireworks celebrations reportedly caused widespread panic among dogs and cats across the area.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Komchadluek 2026-01-03

 

 

Kudos to the rescuers. They showed real compassion.

1 hour ago, Georgealbert said:

Its eyes appeared cloudy, suggesting.....

....that the dog is older than 7 or 8 and more like 12 or 13 as the cloudy eyes are symptomatic of cataracts which older dog do get. Both of my 13 year old dogs have cataracts.

Poor dog. I'm glad some kind-hearted folks helped him get out and dried off.
Fireworks are always an issue with our dogs and I kept our front yard guard dog in the house from about 8pm to after midnight after she climbed a cabinet and knocked on the windows. The other dogs had to tough it out. New Years Eve, Loi Krathong, and funerals are always a stressful time for our pups.

Now our cat? Completely different story. He was on the roof watching the fireworks at midnight.

Troll post removed.

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15 hours ago, connda said:

Now our cat? Completely different story. He was on the roof watching the fireworks at midnight.

My cat runs for cover.

Great work 💯0% ✊

I have four dogs, a Chihuahua, two Chihuahua mixes and a German Shepherd mix. The Chihuahuas were unhappy, the German Shepherd was terrified!

I always create a "boomy roomy" for them at New Year and Sonkram. Soft lighting, blankets and cushions, calming music.

I love the way the Thai's in Pattaya treat the stray dogs.

On 1/3/2026 at 3:30 PM, Georgealbert said:

After reaching dry land, the dog immediately ran away from the scene

Ungrateful son of a biatch.