Categories: PETS

Nepal’s Day Of The Dog As Part Of Hindu Celebrations


With marigold garlands around their necks, dogs took centre-stage in Nepal on Thursday on a day dedicated to humankind's loyal friend as part of a Hindu festival.

Kukur Tihar, the second day of the five-day Tihar festival, is reserved for worshipping dogs as agents of Yamaraj, the god of death, and for appreciating their loyalty and companionship to humans.

Agriculture expert Dhani Ram Kharel, 74, who celebrated the festival at home, told AFP that his dog is an integral part of his family.

“It is important to have a dog for our protection,” said Kharel, holding his 10-year-old labrador in his arms.

“When we have a dog, it protects our family and keeps us safe.”

Across Nepal, dog lovers showered their pets and street dogs with treats, belly rubs, and toys to show their appreciation
AFP News

While dogs are cherished as loyal friends, street dogs in Nepal often face cruelty.

“This is wrong because dogs are the most important companion to humans because they serve full time duty,” he said.

Across Nepal, dog lovers showered their pets and street dogs with treats, belly rubs, and toys to show their appreciation.

The canine unit of Nepal's Armed Police Force also lined up for celebrations during a special ritual held at the headquarters.

The trained dogs are often used during investigations, natural disasters and in the detection of explosives and drugs.

While dogs are cherished as loyal friends, street dogs in Nepal often face cruelty
AFP News

“It's a special day for dogs,” said Ram Narayan KC, chief of the Animal Health and Dog Handler section of the Armed Police Force.

He said that the dogs are an important part of the security force's team during times of crisis, including for search and rescue missions.

“We offer our dogs milk, eggs, meat and other foods on this day, remembering their contribution,” said KC.

Animal welfare advocates hope the Kukur Tihar spirit lasts beyond the festival, calling for better treatment of street dogs all year round and an end to harmful practices.



Source link

Doggone Well Staff

Recent Posts

Deep Dives And Dogs: Trading old food for new kibbles | Currents Feature

click to enlarge (Jackson Nyx/Submitted) Jackson Nyx, owner…

3 hours ago

Dog owners help their furry friends beat the heat

BALTIMORE — When it's this hot outside, a cup of cold water can go a…

4 hours ago

Four adorable cats ‘desperately waiting’ for their new ‘purrfect’ home in Shropshire

Nigel, Remy, Waffle and Bagel are each patiently awaiting for a new home to call…

6 hours ago

Cutest pet of the week: Olaf

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) - This is Olaf, a 6-year-old Welsh Corgi.His fun fact is…

7 hours ago

PAWS Pet of the Week – Atlas; Volunteer Needs and Upcoming Events at PAWS Charles City – KCHA NEWS – Charles City’s News, Weather & Sports

COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS BROUGHT TO YOU BY FLOYD COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER: In this week’s Community Conversation,…

10 hours ago

They’re hot too: Keeping pets safe amid excessive heat

JACKSON, Tenn. — High temperatures have been common over the last few days and we…

11 hours ago