It is the fourth day of renewed fighting between Thai and Cambodian forces along their border and there is no word on when hundreds of thousands of displaced people can return home.

In a gymnasium in the Thai city of Surin, around 550 people are waiting it out, many fled on Sunday when the latest clashes began.

Local officials provide plenty of food and any diversion they can for the children. The cooler, winter temperatures help keep things bearable. But there’s inevitable boredom and anxiety about the condition of what they’ve left behind: homes, valuables ad their animals.

A 37-year-old farmer, Thidarat Homhual, sat with her family. But her mind was often on those left to fend for themselves: her cows, ducks, four dogs and nine cats.

“We are behind the frontline. We can live like this. It’s OK. But I want it to be over. I miss my pets. I really miss my pets, all the animals at home. I can’t really put it into words.”

Neither side looks ready to talk, as Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul vows to continue to fight and Cambodia’s powerful Senate president Hun Sen promises a fierce response.

For 73-year-old Amnat Meephew, in the shelter with his cousin Suksai Kumkutkeow, the conflict is heartwrenching.

“Sometimes when I think about it I tear up. Why Thais and Cambodians, who are like brothers, are fighting? I don’t know if there’s some kind of conflict of interest. Is there? Speaking about it, I’m about to cry,” he said.

AP video shot by Jerry Harmer