AP Photos: Garlands and treats for beloved dogs in Nepal’s annual Kukur Puja festival

KATHMANDU, Nepal -- Dogs crossed Nepal were honored during nan yearly show of “Kukur Puja” connected Thursday, pinch offerings of flower garlands, treats and vermillion marks connected their heads.

In Nepal, nan 2nd time of Tihar — besides known arsenic Diwali — is Kukur Puja, dedicated to canines. Pet owners and others execute rituals to grant some pets and stray dogs.

At nan Armed Police Force canine halfway successful Kathmandu, handlers celebrated their work dogs.

At slightest 8 dogs were lined up for nan ritual, and they later demonstrated skills for illustration jumping done occurrence rings and pursuing commands specified arsenic opinionated connected their hind legs and fetching.

“Today, we grant these dogs for their invaluable contributions, arsenic they determinedly assistance successful keeping america safe, from detecting explosives to rescuing those successful request during disaster events,” said Ram Narayan KC, lawman branch main of nan canine division.

In Hindu-majority Nepal, dogs are believed to beryllium messengers of Yamraj, nan deity of death, and worshiping them is said to please him.

The five-day Tihar show originates pinch worshipping crows, followed by dogs and past cows, which are considered ineffable successful Nepal.

The remaining 2 days see 1 honoring nan goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. On nan past time sisters stitchery to believe for their brothers’ good being.