Golden retrievers bring emotional relief as search stretches past 100 hours after deadly quake

In the rubble of a collapsed high-rise in Bangkok, two rescue dogs have taken on an unexpected role—offering emotional support to grieving families still waiting for word on missing loved ones.

The 30-storey tower collapsed during the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The tremors also impacted Thailand, causing severe structural damage in Bangkok. Seventy-two people remain missing at the disaster site, with 15 confirmed dead as of April 2.

With search efforts stretching over 100 hours and hope waning, two golden retrievers from K9 Usar Thailand stepped away from the debris to bring a brief but powerful moment of comfort. Wearing orange vests, the dogs mingled with relatives of the missing at a temporary shelter near the disaster zone, providing warmth and a sense of solidarity through their presence.

Family members, many of whom have not left the site since the collapse, embraced the opportunity to pet the dogs and find solace. “I told the dogs, please help find them. My hope is hanging on you,” said Chanpen Keawnoi, who lost contact with her mother and sister.

Search operations have been hindered by a lack of building blueprints and the structure’s thick concrete walls. Though no survivors have been located, officials remain committed to the ongoing mission. K9 handlers say the dogs are trained to detect life under debris but can also offer therapeutic relief to those waiting.

The building in question was under construction when it crumbled in seconds, as captured in witness footage. Authorities have since confirmed the presence of substandard steel and cited prior reports of irregularities flagged by anti-graft agencies. As investigations continue, the government has ordered safety inspections of over 11,000 private high-rises nationwide.

Amid technical challenges and emotional strain, the rescue dogs have emerged as unexpected beacons of resilience. “The dogs’ gentleness gives spirit to the relatives. It’s like making a promise—they’ll stay until everyone is found,” said the deputy director of K9 Usar Thailand.

As Thailand intensifies structural safety reviews and rescue teams press on with their mission, the scene at the collapsed tower is a powerful reminder of both human loss and emotional endurance. For those still waiting, even fleeting moments of canine companionship provide the strength to hold on a little longer.

Sources: Reuters (2025), Mothership (2025)

Keywords: Bangkok Tower Collapse, K9 Rescue Dogs, Earthquake Thailand, Missing Victims Support