FUFU

(RAAP—018)

Fufu was a poodle and the beloved pet of Vajiralongkorn, who was then the Crown Prince of Thailand. Acquired as a puppy from Chatuchak market in Bangkok by the prince’s daughter Sirivannavari Nariratana, Fufu became a prominent figure in Thai royal life.

Fufu frequently accompanied the Crown Prince on royal engagements and was prominently featured at public events. Notably, Fufu performed charming stunts at the Thailand Grand Pet Show in 2006. He was ceremoniously promoted to the rank of Air Chief Marshal in the Royal Thai Air Force, making a memorable appearance at a gala dinner dressed in formal attire.

Fufu passed away in early 2015 and a four-day Buddhist funeral was held, followed by cremation. The funeral was widely covered on social media in Thailand and sparked commentary. Due to Thailand’s strict lèse-majesté laws, which prohibit open discussion about the monarchy and succession, many Thais used the event as a subtle form of expression regarding their concerns about royal succession.