Monday, June 2, 2025
Column 687
Sangkhlaburi, Thailand – Dogs, Doing Good (and Darts?) at the Edge of the World
You don’t expect to find a dartboard at the edge of the Thai jungle. You definitely don’t expect to find it surrounded by rescue dogs, with the deafening hum of cicadas ringing through the trees. But then again, nothing about the Sangkhlaburi Animal Sanctuary is expected.
This sanctuary is a place of heart, compassion, and small everyday miracles. And maybe, just maybe, a lighthearted game of darts could offer a bit of relief and a lot of laughter after a long day spent with the dogs.
Founded by the unstoppable Denise Emsley – a woman with a huge heart and even bigger reserves of compassion – the sanctuary has grown into a bustling, life-saving refuge for dogs in remote western Thailand, near the Burmese border. What began as a one-woman mission to ease suffering has become a vital lifeline for animals who would otherwise have no chance.
Beside her is Urs Schmid, a calm, steady presence who helped build the sanctuary from the ground up and now helps Denise keep it all running smoothly.
If you’re lucky enough to visit, you’ll meet characters like Blatu…
Her elderly owners, facing health challenges, had to relocate to Bangkok for better access to hospitals. Heartbroken, they reached out to Denise – who didn’t hesitate to welcome Blatu with open arms. Blatu is still waiting for her forever home. Could it be yours?
Then there’s Mary…
She was rescued on Christmas Day – hence the name, a nod to “Merry Christmas.” She was found near the bustling Three Pagodas market, dangerously close to being trampled by shoppers more interested in souvenirs than the small life beneath their feet. Mary, also waiting for a family, “greets visitors with joy – often selecting a special stone or twig as a gift to present to anyone who passes by her pen.”
And Ivy…
She was found alone in the jungle – is a toy-loving “super cuddler” who’s also dreaming of adoption.
You’ll also meet the backbone of the sanctuary: the volunteers. They come from around the world – veterinarians, vet nurses, photographers, and everyday dog lovers – united by a shared desire to make a difference. They treat mange, patch wounds, walk dogs, clean messes, and still find the energy to laugh at the end of the day.
So, yes, absolutely, there’s absolutely room for any animal loving darts player.
With afternoons sweltering and dogs often snoozing, a dartboard nailed to a post in the yard wouldn’t feel out of place. It’s easy to imagine a spirited game breaking out after a long day of de-ticking, feeding, and paw-soothing. A little makeshift competition might even draw a local crowd – human and canine – and with a little creativity, could double as a fundraiser. Entry fee: one bag of kibble.
Because make no mistake: the sanctuary needs help. After their largest funder, Network for Animals, abruptly withdrew support, the financial reality has become an everyday stress point. Medical supplies and food are always needed. Volunteers are essential, and any help – whether it’s skilled, financial, or spirited – is welcomed with open arms (and wagging tails).
So, if you’re a darts player with a soft spot for strays, a tolerance for tropical heat and an itch for adventure, this is your calling.
Come spend a few days in Sangkhlaburi – a stunning remote little town. Bring your darts and your love for animals. Teach Blatu how to chalk. Help raise funds and spirits. And most importantly, be part of something real.
More information can be found here: sangkhlaburianimalsanctuary.com.
Or register here to receive periodic e-mail updates about the sanctuary’s lifesaving activities: https://www.sangkhlaburianimalsanctuary.com/sign-up-to-your-newsletter.
Having been to animal sanctuaries on every continent but Antarctica, I can assure you this is one of the best. There may not be a pub in sight, but at the Sangkhlaburi Animal Sanctuary you’ll be welcomed with open arms and paws – and you won’t want to leave.
From the Field,
Dartoid
