Fire at Pattaya Animal Hospital Triggers Dramatic Rescue of Residents and Animals
A fire broke out at Doctor Ja Animal Hospital in Soi Phonpraphanimit, Pattaya, at around 7:30 AM on January 9th, causing the death of two cats and prompting a dramatic rescue operation to save six residents and numerous pets.
The Sawang Boriboon Rescue Center received reports of the fire, which left several people injured and trapped inside the building. Rescue teams coordinated with the Nongprue Municipal Disaster Prevention Unit, dispatching fire trucks and an aerial ladder to the scene.
The fire occurred in a three-story commercial building consisting of two connected units. Thick smoke poured from the structure, and six residents, including adults and children, were seen calling for help from the third-floor balcony. Rescue teams guided the trapped individuals to the second-floor balcony, where they were safely evacuated using the aerial ladder. All six suffered from minor smoke inhalation but were otherwise unharmed.
According to firefighters, the blaze originated on the first floor, near a fish tank and a rack of pet-related equipment, both of which were partially destroyed. Quick action by the fire team prevented the flames from spreading further, and the fire was soon brought under control.
The animal hospital housed numerous pets at the time of the fire. Rescuers discovered eight dogs and seven cats in cages on the first and second floors. While most animals survived, two cats succumbed to smoke inhalation. Many of the pets were visibly frightened and distressed during the ordeal. Hospital staff and rescuers worked together to transfer the surviving animals to nearby veterinary clinics for temporary care.
Mrs. Anusara Saisaat, the 40-year-old owner of the hospital, recounted the harrowing experience. She explained that her family, staff, and she had been asleep when the fire started. Loud noises from outside woke them, and upon opening the windows, they were greeted by the smell of smoke. Heavy smoke filled the front hallway when they attempted to go downstairs, forcing them to retreat to the third-floor balcony to await rescue.
Authorities suspect that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit, but police and fire investigators are conducting further inquiries to confirm the exact cause.
This incident highlights the importance of fire safety precautions, particularly in facilities housing animals. Fortunately, thanks to the swift actions of rescue teams, no human lives were lost, and the majority of the animals were saved.
