Tongdaeng, eight, appeared healthy and obedient. In a 30-minute session, the regal pooch followed all instructions set for her, which included sitting, turning, clawing and then swimming without a life-jacket. Joining her in the pool was her seven-year-old friend Tonglang.

His Majesty's representative Privy Councillor Ampon Senanarong said Tongdaeng was nervous at first because the pool is bigger than the one she uses in the Klai Kangwon Palace in Hua Hin.

The distinguished four-legged friend received a certificate and some canine products.

Divided off in the 1.5-metre pool is a hydrotherapy section with a pulley system and four water jets, which act like a jacuzzi.

The hydrotherapy pool was built with the help of Bt2.13 million from the Tongdaeng Fund raised partly from the sale of T-shirts carrying the picture of the regal dog.

Many dogs, who are incapable of walking, are able to swim with the use of a lifejacket.

The pool has treated on average 10-12 dogs per day during its year in operation. Around 80 per cent of these animals suffered from orthopaedic trouble and were often incapable of walking while the rest mostly had nerve diseases.

The centre has one vet and two assistants who guard against the chance of heart attacks while the dogs are in the water.

Later Pepsi and Chargo, belonging to Their Royal Highnesses Princesses Bajra Kitiyabha and Sirivannavari Nariratana respectively, swam in the hydrotherapy pool.

Most royal pets are examined every Sunday at Klai Kangwon by Kasetsart staff, but Tongdaeng has a personal veterinarian, Noppakrit Chanthik.

Dog swimming competitions are being held this morning, and this week free pet health checks are available, and there is advice for owners whose pets suffer from orthopaedic and nervous diseases. Free rabies vaccinations and pet products can be bought at reduced prices.

Kupluthai Pungkanon

The Nation