SINGAPORE (ANN/THE NATION/STRAITS TIMES) – A devoted dog that fell into severe depression after its owner’s passing has found a new home, adopted by a Thai princess.
Moo Daeng, a brown-and-white dog whose name means “red pork” in Thai, captured hearts after images of it lying in front of a convenience store went viral in January, according to The Nation.
The Mari-Mo Photography Facebook page, which had been documenting Moo Daeng’s life since its owner’s death in November 2024, revealed that the dog had been staying outside a 7-Eleven store in Yamo Market, Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Moo Daeng’s story gained widespread attention after being shared by the popular Facebook page KoratForumSkyscrapercity.
Moo Daeng belonged to a homeless man who relied on begging for food and money in the market. At night, the pair would rest outside the 7-Eleven.
Tragically, the man fell ill and passed away in November 2024. Unaware of his death, Moo Daeng continued to return to their usual spot, waiting for its beloved owner.
Touched by the dog’s unwavering loyalty, store owners and staff cared for Moo Daeng, providing food, blankets, and even a stuffed toy for comfort during the cold nights.
The dog’s devotion drew comparisons to Japan’s legendary Hachiko, the Akita that famously waited for its deceased owner at a train station for nearly a decade. Social media users dubbed Moo Daeng the “Hachi of Korat.”
As Moo Daeng’s story spread, a Japanese news outlet even visited to film a feature on the dog. The viral Facebook post amassed nearly 30,000 reactions in under a day, with many urging for a loving home to take Moo Daeng in.
On January 22, Mari-Mo Photography announced that Princess Siribha Chudabhorn had officially adopted Moo Daeng, with permission from authorities and the 7-Eleven owner.
Princess Siribha shared on Facebook that she was moved by Moo Daeng’s story and decided to take him in due to his deteriorating health. She acknowledged the dog’s severe depression and reassured the public that her intention was not to take him away but to ensure his well-being.
Moo Daeng was taken to Kasetsart University Veterinary Hospital for medical check-ups, quarantine, and acclimatisation. Once ready, he will be moved to the princess’s residence in Chiang Mai, where he will spend the rest of his life.
Princess Siribha, 42, is the eldest daughter of Princess Chulabhorn Walailak, the youngest daughter of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and sister to Thailand’s current monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
An advocate for conservation and animal welfare, Princess Siribha cares for around 30 rescued dogs and cats at her residence.
“I love all the dogs and cats in my home equally, like my own children,” she wrote in a Facebook post on January 24.
“When Moo Daeng joins his new friends, I will love him as if he were my own child. I will continue to take pictures and update everyone.”
Moo Daeng’s story, a testament to love and loyalty, has touched many hearts. Now, in a new home filled with care and companionship, he can finally heal.
