Nakhon si thammarat: A southbound train journey turned chaotic when an orange cat escaped its carrier, attacking passengers and injuring its owner. The incident unfolded on train number 169 traveling from Bangkok to Yala, as a cat belonging to a passenger named Ms. Orawan became agitated and bit her hand while she attempted to disembark at Cha-uat Station. The bite inflicted a severe wound on her right hand, causing it to bleed profusely. The cat then fled and hid in another carriage, leading to a delay of over 30 minutes as train staff and rescue workers scrambled to capture the feline.
According to Thai News Agency, Associate Professor Dr. Panthep Rattanagorn, a former Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Mahidol University and Vice President of the Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPCA), emphasized the importance of responsible preparation when traveling with pets. He advised that owners should train their pets to become accustomed to travel and familiar with control devices before taking them into public areas. This preparation is crucial to ensure the safety of the animal, the owner, and other travelers.
In light of the incident, experts recommend using alternative options such as pet carrier backpacks or leashes, which should be strong and securely locked to prevent escape when the animal becomes startled. Creating a "safe space" for pets can minimize stimuli and prevent accidents. Dr. Panthep also cautioned against administering sedatives or tranquilizers to animals without a prescription, as this can pose serious health risks. Consulting a veterinarian is advised for managing high-stress situations when traveling long distances with pets.
Understanding a pet's temperament is vital, as some animals may become aggressive when exposed to unfamiliar environments. Dr. Panthep warned that owners who do not understand their pet's behavior may inadvertently cause accidents and inconvenience to others.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has specific regulations for bringing pets on trains, permitting them only on fan-equipped 3rd class trains and prohibiting them in air-conditioned and sleeper cars. Pets must be kept in secure, enclosed cages or containers, and owners are required to pay pet baggage fees based on weight and distance before traveling.
Source: Thai News Agency