March 25, 2008

OKINAWA, Japan – A clever, long-haired Chihuahua that lives with Buddhist monks has found the way to inner-peace -- or pieces of dog treats, that is.

For the last two years, a dog named Conan has lived with Buddhists in an Okinawa temple. In that time, he has begun to mimic the holy men's prayer positions, much to the delight* of visitors.

When a priest begins chanting, Conan sits very still next to the man and stares at a statue of a deity. When the monk brings his hands together – a very basic part of postulation – Conan follows suit by placing his paws together, right in front of his little face.

"He started to pose in prayer like us whenever he wanted treats," said priest Joei Yoshikuni.

While no one's quite sure if he receives enlightenment through his 'prayers,' the Chihuahua does get a fair amount of treats from entertained visitors to the Japanese temple.

"Clasping hands is a basic action of Buddhist prayer to show appreciation. He may be showing his thanks for treats and walks," said Yoshikuni.

In fact, according to the Daily Mail, the number of visitors has increased an estimated 30 percent since his arrival. Young people seem to appreciate the small dog.

"I'm glad that people feel more comfortable visiting the temple because of Conan," Yoshikuni added.

And although none of the monks has reported seeing the little dog on the higher plane, they do appreciate that his presence has helped bring Buddhism into the lives and consciousness of animal lovers.

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Special contributions to this story by the Daily Mail.

*previously chagrin