SCAD Foundation – Soi Cats And Dogs

There are an estimated 800,000 street cats and dogs in Bangkok, a staggering number. Working to combat this situation is SCAD, a non-profit animal welfare organisation improving the lives of street animals in Bangkok, thereby creating a happier and healthier environment.

SCAD was founded in 2002 by British expat Sherry Conisbee. A chance encounter with a mangy mutt called Boy on Bang Saray's beach was the start of what emerged as 'Soi Dog Rescue' and a few years later became SCAD, an acronym for Soi Cats And Dogs, as just as many cats were in need. SCAD is funded entirely by donations and various fundraising activities. Its team includes Thais and foreigners and is made up of a small number of paid staff and a dedicated group of volunteers.

There is no animal welfare legislation in Thailand and this means that there is no animal protection and very limited education about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Thailand also faces the same problems as the rest of the world with a prevalent 'puppy culture'. Cute, fluffy bundles brought home from markets and pet shops that are often dumped once they become adult dogs, contributing to the street animal population. Within Thailand's culture there are also beliefs that tolerate the dumping of animals and prohibit euthanasia even in desperate cases.

SCAD aims to relieve the suffering of street animals by engaging local communities to participate in humane CNR (capture, neuter and release) programmes, educate about the benefits of sterilising and vaccinating pets, and providing animal welfare materials to schools and communities. The objective of this combination is to foster compassion for the plight of street dogs and cats. and make people more aware of the situation around them and encourage them to help. As of the end of September 2010, 8,237 cats and dogs have been sterilised and vaccinated by SCAD.

There is a multitude of diseases that can inflict cats and dogs in Thailand including; rabies, blood parasites, distemper, FIP, FIV, heartworm and mange. When conducting CNR programmes any really sick or injured animal remains at SCAD for treatment to bring them back to health. If their temperament allows for rehabilitation, they enter the adoption program.

Over 800 street cats and dogs have found loving homes through SCAD’s local and international adoption programs.

Sponsoring a dog or cat through our Muttketeers Sponsorship Program is a wonderful way to help – it’s very easy to sign up and packages start from as little as US$20 per month. Contact sponsorship@scadbangkok.org for full details or go straight to the Sponsorship page on our website.

For more information or to donate visit http://www.scadbangkok.org/ SCAD is always looking out for new foster homes, sponsors and adoptive families.

SCAD on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/SCADBangkok