Chum Phae:"Cha Thai," a well-known stray dog in Chum Phae District, Khon Kaen Province, is on the mend after being struck by a car. The incident occurred when Cha Thai was chasing a rival dog.
According to Thai News Agency, Cha Thai has become a local favorite, often seen jumping onto motorcycles to hitch a ride to the market and then returning to a nearby convenience store. A viral video highlighted the dog's endearing antics, further increasing its popularity.
Reporters recently visited Chum Phae to find Cha Thai and discovered that the dog often rests at the Pornsamut Pla Too Suay cold storage facility. There, they met Mrs. Pikul Wongthai, who manages the facility and has formed a strong bond with Cha Thai by regularly feeding and caring for him.
Ms. Pikul explained that Cha Thai is recovering from the accident, which happened a few days ago. Although its condition is improving, the dog remains less energetic and is keeping its distance from people. However, it continues to ride on villagers' motorcycles, a familiar habit.
Cha Thai has been part of the community for about three to four years, ever since being abandoned near a convenience store. Over time, Cha Thai began frequenting Ms. Pikul's shop for food and became accustomed to riding on her employees' delivery trucks. The dog is known to jump onto motorcycles, sometimes startling people unfamiliar with its behavior.
Ms. Pikul noted that Cha Thai does not bite people and simply enjoys riding in vehicles. The community has grown accustomed to Cha Thai's presence, with residents often accommodating the dog during its travels.