Celebrities clap back at PM Anutin over pet evacuation comments

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul faced criticism from celebrities and animal lovers after suggesting that flood victims prioritize their own safety over their pets when evacuating to shelters. Anutin claimed that some people were unwilling to leave flooded areas without their animals, causing issues in evacuation centers meant for other residents.

He argued that pets could make noise and create hygiene problems, including unpleasant smells, and that government agencies would attempt to care for pets, but the government's primary concern was the safety of people affected by flooding. Celebrities such as Chermarn Boonyasak, Ploy Horwang, Chalita Suansane, Fonthip Watcharatrakul, and Tata Young expressed their disapproval on social media, emphasizing that pets are living beings that deserve to be treated with compassion.

Deputy government spokesperson Lalida Perisviwatthana later clarified that Anutin's comments were misinterpreted and that the government understands that pets are part of many families. She stated that the government is prepared to consider separate areas for pets in evacuation centers, but warned that delaying evacuation could put both owners and pets at greater risk, especially in households with children, the elderly, or other vulnerable individuals.