PATHUM THANI — A brown stray dog who became an unofficial employee at a local gas station has captured Thailand’s heart after photos of his employee ID card went viral on social media.
Namtan—a name that means both “brown sugar” and references his coat color—has been working at the PTT station on Thanyaburi-Wang Noi Road in Klong Luang district for four years. His official employee card lists his full name as “Namtan Klong 7,” with the nickname “Tan” and his position as “Patrol Unit.”
The six-year-old dog takes his job seriously, running up to inspect almost every car that pulls into the station and keeping watch over the forecourt throughout the day.
More Than Just a Pet
What started as an act of kindness has evolved into something special. Station owner Thirapong Lappholtaweying found Namtan wandering the streets years ago and decided to take him in.
“I felt sorry for him,” Thirapong said. “But he turned out to be naturally friendly and liked approaching people, so we made him our patrol unit to help look after customers.”
The employee badge serves a practical purpose beyond the novelty—it lets people know Namtan has a home and where to find him if he wanders off.
Forecourt captain Phanom Chai Kamtha has watched Namtan develop into an effective, if unconventional, security presence. When troublemakers or rowdy teenagers show up at the station, Namtan doesn’t hesitate to bark and chase them away.
Weekly “Salary” Covers the Basics
The widely shared story mentions Namtan receiving a 300-baht weekly salary, though both station employees clarify this is simply his food allowance rather than actual wages.
“We don’t really give him a salary,” Phanom Chai explained. “It’s just money to buy his food each week because the owner cares about him.”
The gesture reflects the station’s broader approach to community support. Thirapong said they also provide employment opportunities for disabled individuals and others who face challenges finding work.
Viral Fame Spreads
The story exploded across Thai social media platforms over the weekend, with users sharing photos and videos of Namtan at work. Many praised the gas station’s compassionate treatment of both animals and disadvantaged community members.
The viral success highlights how small acts of kindness can resonate widely, turning a simple story of caring for a stray dog into a symbol of corporate social responsibility and community spirit.
For now, Namtan continues his daily routine at the Klong 7 station, blissfully unaware that his employee status has made him one of Thailand’s famous working dogs.