soi dog foundation
(PART OF THE KINDRED GUARDIANS PROJECT)
FULL STORY BELOW
SUMMARY
Nestled in a quaint village surrounded by a rubber tree plantation near the airport in the vibrant tourist destination of Phuket, Thailand, lies the Soi Dog Foundation. This non-profit sanctuary, established in 2003 by British couple John and Gill Dalley, provides refuge for street dogs. Although Gill passed away from cancer in 2017, her legacy endures at the foundation, immortalized by a large statue next to their veterinary hospital. John continues his work at the foundation, honoring both Gill's memory and their shared commitment to animal welfare.
The mission of the Soi Dog Foundation is to improve the welfare of dogs and cats in Asia, enhancing the lives of both animal and human communities, striving for a society without homeless animals, and aiming to ultimately end animal cruelty.
The foundation's efforts stretch beyond Phuket, reaching into Bangkok and other Thai provinces. Annually, Soi Dog conducts tens of thousands of spay/neuter and vaccination procedures. Additionally, the foundation has made significant strides against the Asian dog meat trade, nearly eradicating it in Thailand and continuing to campaign for its cessation in South Korea, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries where it still persists.
On any given day, tourists can be seen lining up to volunteer, eager to walk the dogs and provide them with the affection and exercise they desperately need. The foundation thrives thanks to its dedicated full-time staff, many of whom began as volunteers and chose to stay permanently.
Home to approximately 800 dogs and 200 cats, the foundation cares for many animals suffering from severe injuries caused by traffic accidents, human cruelty, skin diseases, and more. A dedicated team of full-time veterinarians, physiotherapists, caretakers, and dog behaviorists work tirelessly to rehabilitate these traumatized animals, preparing them for adoption.
The staff performs life-saving surgeries, administers physiotherapy to help dogs walk for the first time, and offers the essential human affection and care these animals require. This is the story of these remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to the welfare of these animals.
THIS STORY IS PART OF MY KINDRED GUARDIANS PROJECT - Kindred Guardians is an ongoing self-funded personal project focused on documenting people around the world who dedicate their lives to helping animals in need. Each chapter explores a new issue and a new bond between humans and animals.
The goal of the project is to shed light on wildlife issues globally, and to celebrate and showcase the crusaders who make it their life’s work to give wildlife a voice.
All images/text are donated to each individual/organization featured in the project and are also available for purchase for media outlets around the world.