Stray Dog Attack Kills Swimmer in Taiwan
Elderly man drowned after being bitten by multiple dogs in Kaohsiung.
A 76-year-old man, identified as Cai, tragically died after being attacked by stray dogs while swimming at Diamond Beach in Yong’an, Kaohsiung. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents who blame long-term dog feeding for the uncontrolled stray population.
Attack Details
Eyewitnesses reported that Cai was swimming when three dogs suddenly entered the water and began attacking him. Despite struggling, he succumbed to the dog bites and drowned. Coast Patrol officers recovered Cai, but he had no vital signs and displayed obvious bite marks, according to first responders.
Community Outrage
The event has angered people in the area. Residents claim an individual known as “Love Mom
” regularly feeds the dogs. Critics say this is the root cause of the growing stray dog population. One resident lamented, โthere are so many dogs that can be bitten to death in the sea!โ
The dog feeding continues to be a problem despite repeated warnings. According to locals, the “Love Mom” even returned to the scene after the attack with chicken parts to feed the dogs. When confronted by locals, she begged, โForgive us again.โ
Official Response
Taiwan’s Animal Protection Department acknowledges the long-term issue of stray dog feeding. This practice has led to a high concentration of animals in the area. The department further stated that dog catching efforts were increased recently, with nearly 30 dogs captured in nine days. Still, personnel struggle to manage the increasing number of stray dogs.
Similar incidents are on the rise. A 2023 report by the World Health Organization estimates that dog bites account for tens of millions of injuries each year worldwide, with children being the most frequent victims (WHO).
Past Incidents
Prior to this fatality, another swimmer was attacked by dogs in late June. Fortunately, that person survived, although they were injured. Local director He Yingcheng reported that feeders often arrive late at night. They have been caught multiple times, yet continue to ignore warnings.
Ongoing Problem
Residents say that even after the Animal Protection Department captured 51 dogs, the situation remains out of control. Locals have complained for years about group feedings that exacerbate breeding among stray dogs.