A dog who waited outside a convenience store for months after his owner died got a happily ever after fit for royalty.
The dog, named Moo Daeng, who is believed to about 10 years old, waited in his usual spot outside a 7-Eleven in the neighbourhood of Korat — located in the Mueang district in Thailand’s Nakhon Ratchasima province — every day after his homeless owner died in November 2024, The Independent reported.
Moo Daeng’s photos went viral on social media last month after a local photographer began sharing regular updates about the canine on Facebook.
Word of the dog eventually reached Princess Siribha Chudabhorn, a niece of the nation’s king Maha Vajiralongkorn and animal welfare activist.
Princess Siribha was so taken by the pooch and his story that she officially adopted the loyal pup.
In a Jan. 23 post, the princess updated the public on Moo Daeng’ adoption status, as well as indicated her desire to help meet the dog’s current emotional needs.
“To all of Moo Daeng’s fans, I want to bring you up to speed so you don’t have to worry, feel anxious or have unanswered questions after all the recent drama,” the royal activist wrote, according to The Independent, citing Thai news outlet Khaosod English.
Princess Siribha explained that all of her pets have experienced some form of trauma, and that she believes it is vital to support both the mental and physical health of our animals.
“All my dogs have experienced trauma, whether through abuse, abandonment or injury,” she explained.
“But in Moo Daeng’s case, it’s severe depression,” she continued, noting that she believes that he is still coping with the loss of his previous owner.
“While humans are able to hide their pain and appear normal on the outside, dogs are pure. They show exactly how they feel.”
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The princess noted that she will continue to post photos and updates of Moo Daeng, which translates to “red pig.”
She added she would even bring the dog to Korat if she visits the area.
Princess Siribha said she adopted Moo Daeng after getting permission from the store owners where the dog had been living, as well as local authorities.
The dog was taken to be looked at by staff at a vet hospital before being taken to the princess’ royal residence in Chiang Mai, which is located in northern Thailand.