All dogs go to heaven: The daily river journey of Thailand monk and his canine alms collectors

Luang Por Chamnan, the temple’s abbot, has become a global internet sensation due to his unique alms rounds. Unlike other monks who walk for their offerings, he travels by water, accompanied by his loyal, four-legged companions, all rescue dogs that balance gracefully along the edges of the boat.

Footage from Wednesday captured his tail-wagging crew, eager and barking with excitement as they rushed to the docks. Once aboard, the pack calmed down, some resting their paws on the boat’s sides as they took in the sights of the flowing river.

Villagers can be seen waiting with rice and food for both the monk and the dogs, delighting in their joyful barks.

“The origin of this situation dates back over 10 years, when we first took care of these dogs,” Chamnan explains. “I started with a single stray puppy that followed me onto the boat. Since then, many unwanted pets have found a home here.”

Now, he ensures the dogs receive proper medical care, vet visits, and weekly baths. They all live harmoniously together, with Chamnan caring for about 20 animals in total.

As the boat stops at roughly a dozen riverside homes for donations, the dogs remain well-behaved, staying close to the abbot. For locals, the sight of the monk in his orange robe, the wooden boat, and attentive dogs has become a common daily sight.

While the dogs do occasionally fall into the water during their playful antics, Chamnan reassures onlookers that his furry crew are all expert swimmers.