They often say that a dog is a person’s most loyal companion, and Michael J Baines is certainly experiencing that truth firsthand. Over the past 12 years, this remarkable 55-year-old individual has saved the lives of over 3,000 dogs. He has established a non-profit shelter in Thailand dedicated to caring for disabled and paralyzed pups, creating a haven of compassion and love.

Endearingly referred to as the “wheelchair mafia” by Michael, these dogs have unintentionally become stars on social media, captivating the hearts of thousands. Their presence serves as a testament to the rewarding and joyful experience that comes with adopting these special furry friends.

Michael’s journey as a dog rescuer commenced in 2011. Originally a chef from Sweden, he decided to venture to Thailand, where he found employment at a restaurant. One fateful day, while toiling away in the kitchen, a forlorn stray dog appeared at the rear of the building. Emaciated, covered in wounds, and having recently given birth, she evoked immense empathy within Michael. He recounts, “My heart shattered as I witnessed her pitiful condition. When I looked into her eyes, it felt as if she was pleading, ‘Help me, I’m famished.’”

Michael named this courageous canine Mango and devotedly fed her every day until trust between them bloomed. Eventually, he took her to the veterinarian for much-needed medical attention. He remarks, “It all began with Mango, and then I found myself caring for one more dog, and then another, and another. I simply couldn’t bear witness to these dogs suffering.”

Each day, on his way to work, Michael tirelessly fed and cared for up to 100 street dogs while diligently seeking out loving owners for them, just as he had done for Mango. Whenever a dog required medical treatment, Michael selflessly covered the expenses from his own pocket. With time, he began raising funds, and in 2013, he established his non-profit organization, fittingly named “The Man That Rescues Dogs.”

In 2016, a profoundly emotional video on Facebook showcasing Michael’s devoted care for these dogs went viral, amassing millions of views in just seven days. He recalls, “I received hundreds of messages from compassionate individuals worldwide, all eager to contribute and donate. It was overwhelming but undoubtedly wonderful news for both me and the dogs.”

With increased donations, Michael, who is divorced and has no children, made the life-altering decision to close his restaurant and dedicate himself full-time to caring for these street dogs. He expanded his team, rented a larger facility, and welcomed more stray and injured pups who were in dire need of help. The foundation also established a clinic and expanded their spaying and neutering program.

Presently, the shelter, sprawling across 7,000 square meters in the Chonburi Province, provides a safe haven for 730 dogs. Moreover, the organization feeds and monitors an additional 400 street dogs daily. The dedicated team, consisting of 44 members, including three veterinarians, works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of these beloved creatures.

Within the shelter, a special care unit houses over 100 sick and disabled dogs. Michael proudly states, “We have a fantastic little gang of 44 dogs in wheelchairs. They are an incredible sight to behold. Our family also includes blind dogs, three-legged dogs, dogs battling distemper, and a few overweight dogs who require a special diet.”

Michael resides on-site, and every morning at 6 a.m., the dogs from the special care unit embark on a refreshing walk, followed by the others at.

at 7 a.m. Throughout the day, the dedicated team attends to cleaning duties, replenishing water, and providing medical care to sick dogs, while the street team focuses on caring for the strays. Around 4 p.m., after a second walk, the staff and volunteers conclude their duties, allowing the playful pooches to enjoy their evening before retiring at approximately 8:30 p.m.

Michael reflects, “It’s undeniably hard work. Tragically, many of the dogs under our care have endured severe mistreatment. Shockingly, some have been left to die after enduring beatings with sticks, stones, and machetes. Others have suffered scalding water or even poisoning.”

Despite the heart-wrenching circumstances, Michael and his devoted team are resolute in nursing these dogs back to health. Thankfully, the majority of them go on to live beautiful and content lives. However, to sustain their life-saving work, the shelter requires £1,280 in daily funds, relying entirely on generous donations. Michael emphasizes, “People from all corners of the globe extend their helping hands, but to continue our mission, we need a steady stream of financial support.”

Michael firmly believes that while there may be fewer dogs on the streets in his local area nowadays, the problem persists. He asserts, “The people in Thailand often claim it’s solely a dog problem, but I maintain it’s a people problem. We need widespread education about responsible dog care. Local authorities should provide free spaying, neutering, and vaccinations. If we can address the root of the people problem, these deserving dogs can finally live happily ever after.”