There is a family living in the neighborhood next to us, a Brit and Thai wife with a little girl who is about 2 years 10 months old. We know the woman and child as they often frequent the little shop at the end of our road, the neighborhood meeting place so to speak. I don't know the man well.
This morning the little girl was out playing on her soi, the same as she does everyday. Quiet soi, no traffic etc. As she was walking, a dog that has know her for most of her life attacked her and very nearly killed her. Her Mother was nearby and is probably the only reason why she was saved. Her Mother has confirmed that no taunting was involved at all, the little girl was just walking.
She now has more than 50 + sutures in her face and neck. All along the left side of her neck, across her cheek, along the top of both eyes and along her entire scalp line. Both eyes are so swollen she can hardly see. Unless mother nature is kind due to her young age and heals her, she is in store for many operations and perhaps scars for life. She also has to get rabies shots now but these days, it's a set of 5 and in the arm only. No more stomach injections.
What makes things worse is that the Father is in Laos and does not know. He has his Thai cell phone and those work in Laos, but I think for only about 20 miles inland from the border. This little girl is the light of his life and I am afraid there is going to be both dog and human bloodshed when he returns.
The woman who apparently owns the dog and the dog have disappeared. Probably a smart move on their part.
So, the point of the story is that even if you think you know the temperment of a Thai street dog well, and you see them everyday for months, we don't know shit. Keep your children and yourselves away from them.
I don't want to impose on the family but if I am able to get a photo of the girl later on, I'll send to Buksida to post as a warning as to what can happen.
This is not going to be a Merry Christmas for this little girl and her family. Maybe say a little prayer for her. Pete
