Open House
It’s Pet-tacular!
Marking National Pet Day on April 11, let's look at some unique pet traditions around the world.
In Nepal, dog lovers celebrate their four-legged companions in a vibrant festival called Kukur Tihar. Observed on the second day of the five-day Diwali festivities, people shower pets and strays with flowers and garlands as a show of respect. Once the rituals end, the pups can gorge on their favourite food.
It is said that in ancient Egypt, cats were considered magical creatures, capable of bringing good luck, and were often decked in precious jewels. When they died, the owners shaved off their eyebrows, and continued to be in mourning till the eyebrows grew back! And cats were mummified too.
Pet festivals take place across the world. In countries like Bolivia and Italy, many pet owners gather to celebrate the annual feast day of Saint Roch, who is also known as the patron saint of dogs. Pets are dressed up in quirky costumes as their owners participate in fun events to mark the occasion.
In Australia, the indigenous people have had a long cultural relationship with animals, especially with dingoes (an ancient lineage of dog found in the continent). In indigenous cultures, dogs are known to often have a formal inclusion into the family, thus granting them a status. Sometimes, the dogs also attend rituals.
Sweden, which is said to be very pet-friendly, has definitive rules for our furry friends. The law says that your pet dog should be allowed to go outdoors at least every six hours. And while indoors, they must have a view from a window that provides sunlight.
