The men devotes his time to caring for and rescuing numerous stray dogs tirelessly.
Fifteen years ago, a broken heart inspired a series of events that profoundly transformed the lives of countless dogs. This individual, now widely known as the esteemed “canine savior,” is none other than Scottish restaurateur Michael J. Baines.
Having developed an affection for Thailand during a trip with his wife, Michael decided to relocate there from Sweden. The couple left behind their former residence and embarked on a new entrepreneurial journey, establishing a restaurant in Thailand.
During one of his work days, a gaunt and famished stray dog approached a man, desperately seeking food. This encounter had a profound impact on his life, as it felt like the dog was silently pleading for assistance through her eyes. Upon closer observation, he discovered that she was malnourished and had recently given birth to puppies. Overwhelmed by compassion, he couldn’t bear to witness her suffering and started providing her with daily meals. This experience ignited a deep-seated desire within him to aid other dogs in similar distress, as he simply could not tolerate their anguish.
The furry canines receive a nourishing meal consisting of a combination of dry food, boiled rice, and vegetable oil infused with bouillon. Their taste buds are delighted with a delectable mixture of chicken, pork, and fish, all boiled to perfection. To ensure the well-being of these beloved companions, Baines diligently administers a monthly dosage of worm and flea prevention powder. The financial support for these expenses is either provided by Baines himself or through generous donations.
In 2003, Baines and his wife, Gill Dalley, founded The Soi Dog Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to creating a safe sanctuary for stray dogs.
Their primary goal is to improve the quality of life for dogs and cats in Asia, thereby benefiting both the animal and human communities. Their efforts are focused on creating a society where pets are not abandoned or mistreated, aiming to bring an end to animal suffering altogether. Their ultimate vision is to foster a pet-free society where the well-being of animals is prioritized and protected.
Currently, the Soi Dog Foundation takes pride in its state-of-the-art hospitals dedicated to cats and dogs. Remarkably, the dog hospital stands as the largest and most comprehensive facility of its kind in Asia, and possibly even worldwide. This exceptional establishment is solely focused on addressing the medical requirements of street dogs.
Gill’s unwavering dedication to her four-legged companions motivated her to dedicate the last four years of her life to designing and overseeing the construction of the dog hospital. She remained committed to fulfilling the promise she made many years ago – to ensure exceptional care for her cherished street dogs.
Baines continues to be actively involved with the Soi Dog Foundation, staying true to his commitment to Gill, as well as the stray cats and dogs. His outstanding contributions to animal welfare in Southeast Asia were acknowledged and honored when he received an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the Queen Elizabeth II Birthday Honours in 2020. This prestigious recognition highlights his remarkable efforts and dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.
