
NAKHON RATCHASIMA — A heartwarming story of loyalty has emerged from Nakhon Ratchasima province, where a Thai dog nicknamed “Moo Daeng” (meaning ‘Chinese BBQ pork’ in Thai) continues to wait for her deceased homeless owner outside a convenience store in the Ya Mo market area. The dog’s unwavering dedication has earned her the title “The Hachiko of Korat,” drawing parallels to the famous Japanese dog known for his legendary loyalty.
The story went viral after being shared by the Facebook page “Korat: The City You Can Create,” touching the hearts of thousands of viewers.

Moo Daeng previously lived with a homeless man who dressed like a hermit and often sold items or received donations in the area. The pair were inseparable, with Moo Daeng regularly waiting for her owner outside the 7-Eleven store, which served as their regular resting spot.
In November 2024, the homeless man fell seriously ill and passed away. Despite her owner’s death, Moo Daeng refuses to leave her post, reminiscent of Hachiko, the Japanese dog who waited at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner every day for ten years.

Currently, the convenience store manager and staff are caring for Moo Daeng, providing food and warm clothing during the cold season. To protect her health, they’ve installed signs requesting visitors not to feed her milk or liver, as these foods could make her ill. The dog’s unwavering loyalty has captured the attention and affection of local residents and passersby.
When a Khaosod reporter visited the site on January 15, they found Moo Daeng peacefully sleeping in front of the store, wearing a red shirt. Local vendors and customers regularly stop to greet and interact with her, with food delivery riders often bringing treats.

According to local vendors, the dog was originally named “Noo Daeng” (Red Mouse), but due to her chubby appearance, people started calling her Moo Daeng (Red Pig).
Somnuk Wisetnok, a banana fritter vendor who has worked in the area for six years, shared that he had witnessed Moo Daeng following the homeless man for four years before his passing. “Moo Daeng is a friendly dog, never aggressive, and gets along well with everyone. The market vendors all love her and regularly bring her food and water. The convenience store staff take excellent care of her and have even taken her to the veterinarian,” Somnuk explained.
To this day, Moo Daeng maintains her vigil at the same spot, a testament to the enduring bond between a dog and her owner.
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