Nonthaburi: Relatives are certain that a monk, who was found dead with wounds inflicted by a dog, succumbed to a chronic illness before the incident. The family of Phra Bannadit, a monk residing at Wat Phleng in Tambon Sai Ma, Amphoe Mueang Nonthaburi, reported that he had long-term health issues and pleaded for the American Bully dog, named 'George', not to be blamed for his death.
According to Thai News Agency, Bang Sri Muang Police Station received a report of a dog attack in the monk's quarters. Upon inspection, they discovered the body of 46-year-old Phra Bannadit inside a single-storey hut. The body showed a dog bite wound, with a missing wrist and bite marks on the right side of his skull, indicating he had been deceased for around two days.
Mr. Wu, a temple disciple, recounted his visit to the monk's quarters around 11 pm after growing concerned over Luang Phi Bannadit's absence since Saturday. Despite the lights being on and the monk's car parked outside, there was no response to his knocks. Upon entering, he found the dog George inside and later discovered the monk had passed away. He promptly informed the abbot and contacted the police.
Family members, including the monk's younger sister, emphasized that Phra Bannadit had been suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease, for which he regularly took medication. The monk had last contacted his family on January 10th, planning to visit his mother in Udon Thani Province, but never arrived. His niece dismissed claims that George, a dog the monk had raised since it was a puppy, was responsible for his death. She cited the dog's gentle nature and lack of aggressive behavior as evidence.
The American Bully, a crossbreed of several dog breeds, is known for its muscular build and gentle disposition. While energetic and strong, it is characterized as sociable, friendly, and non-aggressive, traits evident in George, who was found lethargic and displayed no hostility during police investigations.