Bangkok Street Dogs

A place to learn about the lives of street dogs in Bangkok, Thailand, with emphasis on the individual characters of the Bangkok street dog community and their stories of hardship and humor.

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Thursday, April 06, 2006

Butch the Political Activist



One of the most widely overlooked side stories of the recent Thai election was the crusade of Butch, a 4 year old grayish street dog who staged a peaceful 6-day protest in the bus lane opposite Bangkok's Klong Toey market. Butch's sit-in was aimed at securing better representation for street dog interests, and although it ultimately didn't succeed from a political standpoint, his campaign did gain exposure for some important issues.

The main issues of Butch's campaign were the creation of tax breaks for Bangkok citizens who leave food scraps for street dogs outside their doorsteps, and municipal bonuses for street vendors to provide fresh drinking water for passing strays. In a moving display of commitment to his cause, Butch laid in the street and endured the heat, exhaust fumes, and blaring horns from angry drivers. Although no new laws were added to the books to protect street dogs, Butch told me he's confident that in the next election, things might turn out differently.

Butch won't tell me what he's got in store for his next protest, but whatever it is, the dedication of this up and coming figure in the Bangkok political scene is sure to amaze.

8 Comments:

Blogger prae said...

I love your blogs so much. I really appreciate the beauty of your writing, the empathy for stray dogs, the political reflection, the humor. I've been reading your blogs since last year. You're a truly inspiring writer and your humor is a great healer during these dark times in our country.

10:05 AM  
Blogger MoMo said...

From the looks of the photo I strongly suspect Butch's next campaign will be pretty much along the same lines - maybe next time in the bike lane?
Still, I hope your new leadership listens to the voices on the street, whether they're talking or barking.

11:01 PM  
Blogger gnarlykitty said...

That's the cutest thing ever!

Be sure to buy one of those Dog Charity wristbands if you see one around. It's pink and comes in black packaging. Even if you are not a wristband wearing kinda person, help support it. It's not for one charity but many, including Thai Society For the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Royal animal rescue foundation.

3:42 AM  
Blogger Pinko said...

How do these poor things get enough water to drink? Do kind people leave out bowls of fresh water everywhere? Are there public fountains they can drink from. I worry about them.

7:08 PM  
Blogger KaReBeaR said...

what a lovely blog.. u have a good soul my canine friend.


=)

6:04 AM  
Blogger La Louve said...

Butch is a brave one! hey Casa good to read from you again.

9:40 AM  
Blogger Next Lobo said...

AAhahahahaha brilliant. I love Thai dogs and i love this blog

5:05 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Nice dog!

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