One of Koh Samui’s dedicated veterinarians, Dr. Angsana Thongyud is a quiet force behind the island’s animal rescue efforts. Through hands-on care, emergency response, and ongoing collaboration with local shelters, she’s improving lives—one rescued animal at a time.
What inspired you to become a veterinarian, and what drew you to work with animal rescues and shelters?
For me, it’s an easy decision—the love for animals and the desire to help improve their lives are what led me to become a veterinarian and work with animal rescues and shelters.
Can you share a moment or experience that reinforced your commitment to helping rescued animals?
It might be the moment when I see an animal come in with severe injuries or neglect, but then recover and become healthy and happy again, perhaps even finding their forever home.
How do you see your role in animal rescue operations, especially in emergency situations or cases of neglect and abuse?
Emergency situations often demand quick thinking, resourcefulness, and a calm, focused approach to help animals in distress. Whether it’s stabilising an injured animal, providing immediate care, or addressing the trauma of neglect and abuse, you are often the first line of defense, ensuring they have a chance at recovery. My role would be central in helping them feel safe again-a responsibility that is just as important as any medical procedure.
What are the most common medical issues among rescued street dogs and cats?
Some of the most common medical issues among these animals include reproductive health problems (such as pregnancy and pyometra), chronic diseases (like chronic kidney disease), and various infections (including skin infections, infected wounds, and parasites). As you probably know, addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach involving medical treatment, proper nutrition, and rehabilitation. It is incredibly rewarding to see a street animal recover and thrive with the right care and attention.
Are you involved in spay and neuter programs such as Rob’s Dogs, and how do you think these efforts impact the stray animal population and community health?
Yes, I am also involved in these initiatives. Regular spay and neuter programs are essential for controlling pet overpopulation and reducing the number of animals entering shelters and rescues. Fewer roaming animals lead to fewer violent interactions between dogs and people, less spread of zoonotic diseases (those that can be transmitted from animals to humans), and improved hygiene and environmental quality. Cleaner, safer streets ultimately enhance the well-being of the entire community.
How do you collaborate with local rescue organisations, shelters, and volunteers to care for needy animals?
Collaborating with local rescue organisations, shelters, and volunteers is essential to ensuring that animals in need receive the care they deserve. My role in working with these groups involves providing both volunteer and medical support, helping to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these animals.
What makes for a successful partnership between veterinarians and animal rescue groups?
A successful partnership between veterinarians and animal rescue groups can make a tremendous difference in the lives of animals in need. By combining the expertise of veterinary professionals with the passion and resources of rescue organisations, we can ensure that animals receive the highest standard of care. It’s about more than just providing medical treatment-it’s about building a strong, sustainable network that supports not only the animals, but also the rescue workers and the broader community.
How do you educate and communicate with the community about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership?
Creating and sharing educational materials on social media, as well as forming partnerships with pet-related businesses, can significantly amplify your message. Participating in community events, fairs, and festivals offers valuable opportunities to set up booths, distribute educational resources, and engage directly with the public. By empowering the community with the knowledge they need to become responsible pet owners and compassionate animal advocates, we can foster positive change. Through consistent communication, collaboration, and education, it is possible to build a well-informed community that truly values animal welfare.
Are particular cases or stories that are especially rewarding or impactful?
By my estimation, I have helped save or improve the lives of more than 30,000 animals through my veterinary work with rescues. Each of these stories represents a rewarding moment for me.
What are your biggest challenges when treating rescued animals, and how do you overcome them?
Despite these challenges, the rewarding moments-whether it’s witnessing an animal’s recovery, celebrating a successful adoption, or seeing a community become more engaged in animal welfare-make all the effort worthwhile. By approaching each case with compassion, patience, and a carefully considered treatment plan, many obstacles can be overcome, leading to truly transformative outcomes for rescued animals.
How do you manage the emotional and ethical challenges of working in rescue and shelter medicine?
Working in rescue and shelter medicine is deeply meaningful, but it requires a careful balance of emotional resilience, ethical clarity, and self-compassion. By prioritising self-care and maintaining ethical integrity in your work, you can continue to help animals in need while also safeguarding your own emotional well-being.
How has working with animal rescues influenced your approach to veterinary medicine?
The experience has made me more empathetic, adaptable, and committed to finding long-term solutions-helping animals not just in the clinic, but also through community outreach, education, and policy reform. This transformative influence has deepened my connection to the profession and to the animals I serve.
What skills or qualities are most important for veterinarians working in this field?
Veterinarians working in rescue and shelter medicine must be multifaceted professionals, equipped with a blend of technical expertise, emotional intelligence, and strong ethical principles. Compassion, resilience, and critical thinking are essential qualities that enable veterinarians to navigate the complexities of caring for vulnerable animals. Additionally, organisational skills, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team are crucial for delivering effective and efficient care. By balancing these skills, veterinarians can achieve the best possible outcomes for rescued animals while actively advocating for their well-being within the community.
What are your hopes for the future of veterinary involvement in animal rescue and welfare?
The future of veterinary involvement in animal rescue and welfare is filled with hope and opportunities for meaningful change. By expanding access to care, prioritising preventive measures, fostering stronger collaboration, and providing greater support for veterinary professionals, veterinarians can make an even greater impact on the rescue community. As these efforts continue to grow, so too will the positive outcomes for animals in need.
How can the public or other veterinarians best support the work being done for rescued animals?
Both the public and veterinarians play vital roles in supporting rescued animals. Members of the public can make a significant difference by adopting, volunteering, donating, and advocating for animal welfare policies. Veterinarians contribute by providing medical expertise, mentoring others, and participating in community education initiatives. By working together, we can create a more supportive and compassionate environment for rescued animals, ensuring they receive the care they need and have the opportunity to live happy, healthy lives in loving homes.
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