Thai monk’s ‘pawesome’ almsgiving captures dog lovers’ hearts

A heartwarming scene captured the hearts of netizens as a revered monk takes his dogs on a daily boat trip for alms. The viral clip shows Chamnarn, the abbot of Wat Chinwararam Worawihan in Pathum Thani, bringing his dogs along on his morning alms rounds, capturing the affection of netizens.

Chamnarn, also known as Phra Ratchasirivacharangsi, shared insights at Wat Chinwararam Worawihan with an online news outlet. He explained that most of the dogs were abandoned at the temple and have since multiplied, now exceeding 10 in number. The temple has taken responsibility for their care, said Chamnarn.

“Every day at 6am, I begin my alms rounds by boat, and the dogs eagerly join me. Those who reach the boat first get to board; in total, about 16 dogs fill the boat. Those left behind wait on the bank. Sometimes, they fall into the water, but they love playing in it. On the boat, they cling to the sides, happily taking in the views.”

The boat stops at 13 households, where elderly residents, mostly between 70 and 80 years old, offer alms. The dogs have grown familiar with these residents, and some even feed the dogs before the monks.

Chamnarn added that the dogs’ endearment to the villagers reflects the Buddhist way of life and their inherent compassion for animals. He recounted how some villagers wake as early as 2am or 3am to cook food for the monks and the dogs, regardless of the weather.

Upon returning to the temple at 6.30am, the dogs play for a while before resting. One of the dogs, named Long, is particularly friendly and follows Chamnarn closely. The abbot remembers all the dogs’ names. The temple also offers free cremation services for animals using the same system as for humans, with the ashes later floated on the water.

“All living beings should coexist happily, with kindness sustaining the world. Even animals do not wish to suffer. We must help each other, create merit, and foster kindness. This softens the heart, reduces greed, anger, and delusion, and encourages a positive outlook and good deeds.”

Ties from another life

Chamnarn mused that he might have karmic ties with these dogs from a previous life, necessitating their care in this one. The viral clip prompted people to donate food for the dogs, including a grooming service from a local shop, Banana Kluk Fun, reported KhaoSod.

The temple’s dogs also receive medical care from the Green Animal Hospital, which provides vaccinations and treatments for ticks and fleas. Though the dogs may appear scruffy, it’s due to their playful nature, enjoying water and mud, said Chamnarn.

“Know, understand, and empathise with the emotional states of animals. Animals cannot speak but can express their feelings of heat, cold, or hunger. Humans share traits with animals but are guided by education and morals. Without these, we are no different from animals.”