8-Year-Old Boy Communicates Only By Barking After Being Raised By 6 Dogs, Mom And Brother Tested Positive For Drugs

An eight-year-old boy from Thailand, abandoned by his family members in the compnany of six family dogs for years has grabbed ears across the world. After being surrounded only by dogs the boy now could only communicate by barking. In response to reports from a local school principal, a child activist and the authorities turned up at their house. The mother and brother of the boy have tested positive for drugs.

Paveena, president of the Paveena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women led the rescue operation along with local police after receiving a complaint from principle of the local school. Reportedly, the boy has not been to the school in past 2 years despite his mother receiving government education funds. According to a report in Khaosod English, his mother received 400 baht from the government for his education but never enrolled him in school.

“He didn’t speak, he just barked. It was pitiful to see,” said Pawina Hongsakul. Further she added, "His mother hasn’t allowed him to go to school since he received a subsidy for free education. After getting the money, she simply kept him at home."

The boy’s mother and brother have been charged with drug use and taken in for treatment. He is now in the care of a local children’s shelter, while Paveena’s foundation is working with officials to ensure he receives a proper education and long-term support.

Neighbours reportedly stopped their own children from playing with the boy as they were disturbed by the family’s behaviour. Left without human contact, the boy bonded with the dogs and began mimicking their behaviour, including barking to communicate.