The annual Tihar festival in Nepal has a day devoted solely to the celebration of man's best friend, dogs.
Tihar is Nepal's version of Diwali. The five-day festival occurs in either October or November each year. Tihar began on Monday this year.
During the five-day festival, Nepalis pay respect to crows — to avert grief and death in their homes — and cows, which in additional to being the national animal in Nepal, is seen as a sign of prosperity and wealth. The second day is devoted to dogs.
Dogs are believed to be messengers of the god of death, Lord Yamaraj.
The dogs are give garlands, treats, and marked with a tilak.
