Saudi Camel Pageant

So is the Saudi Camel pageant a beauty pageant--or a breed show?

This comes on the heels of my meeting Tulula at Windy Hill Ranch and let me say it has been a long time since a camel has kissed me. I don't tend to work hoofed stock due to allergies to dust and hay molds but I didn't have any trouble at the pristine, clean facility.

The gang is part of El Campeon farms located in the Thousand Oaks area of California.

We spent all day there beginning with a picnic lunch with ranch manager Trish--and wouldn't you know I forgot my camera!

Of all the facilities I have visited, the animal care and condition of the animals here was most excellent. The place has a lot of things going on...more on that later.

I am still on the road after attending the LA Festival of Books. I'll have photos for you when I get home. Instead of attending both days this year I am covering a new exciting program...secret at this moment but you'll be one of the first to know about it!

Tumpek Kandang Gives New Meaning to “Animal House”

Most animal blessing events welcome all species, wild or tame. Throughout Europe and the United States these historic traditions are simply called, “Blessing of the Animals.” In Indonesia, Hindus celebrate Tumpek Kandang (also known as Tumpek Andang) in honor of household animals such as cows, pigs, chickens, ducks, dogs and birds. During this special Saturday (held this year on February 17, 2007) rituals take place on farms and compounds around the region. Many animals are honored with different ceremonies.

Diana L. Guerrero talks about animal blessing traditions and contemporary creature celebrations in her new book BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677).

During her work on BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Guerrero found a variety of interesting trends. Animal blessings and pet oriented services are on the increase.

She said, “Tumpek Kandang is held in appreciation for animal assistance on the farm and around the home, cattle may receive distinctive treatment such as ceremonial bathing, specialty meals, unusual snacks, fancy costuming, cosmetic grooming, or adornment with trinkets. Creatures also receive special prayers complete with a sprinkling of holy water or rice.”

Guerrero interviewed many spiritual leaders about their animal blessings and discovered that animals catalyze people to cross religious lines to find common ground. When asked for insider information, Guerrero said, “The fur really flies over pet nuptials and mitzvahs, and believe it or not, during animal blessings most creatures remain calm and cooperative...but some critters need a list of commandments: Thou shall come when called, Thou shall behave in public..."

Just in case your wondering, Guerrero included those commandments in Blessing of the Animals and you can take a sneak preview online at www.blessingoftheanimals.com. Book buyers receive special codes hidden in the book to receive extra bonuses after purchase.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS will be available at booksellers throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom in April 2007.

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Review copies of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677) are available to journalists. Contact Sterling Publishing Publicity at (212) 532-7160 or Krista Margies (646) 688-2510 (kmargies@sterlingpub.com).

Diana L Guerrero is available for interviews. Learn more at:
http://www.dianalguerrero.com
http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com
http://www.whatanimalscanteachusaboutspirituality.com

Quick Link: Bali Celebration of Tumpek Kandang

Prefer Puppy Love or Pussycat Passion? Author’s Animal Lover's Quiz Reveals the Beastly Truth

Folklore credits the first valentine to an imprisoned Saint Valentine in third century Rome. He sent the first "valentine" to his beloved by signing it "From your Valentine." Today the tradition continues but it is really going to the dogs…and cats.

According to Diana L Guerrero a recent survey revealed that most pet owners would pick a pet over a person. This news might be startling to some but is indicative of changes in American households. For instance, pet spending has more than doubled from $17 billion in 1994 to an estimated $38.4 billion in 2006. According to Guerrero more pet households now exist than those with children.

“This means that if you want to get into the heart of your sweetie this Valentine’s Day don’t forget to include something for the pet. There is a wide assortment of gifts to select from--everything from a crunch cards (pet card with a treat) or reflective pet ID tag to high end crystal embedded collars, and if you want to share a quiet human only romantic interlude…consider sending the pet out for a s-paw day.”

Diana L. Guerrero talks about timeless traditions and contemporary ceremonies for pets in her soon to be released book, BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677).

The unusual book is filled with ideas and tips for pet parties, pet weddings, and other furry festivities. Readers will find ceremonies and tips for mutt-rimony, holidays such as Valentine’s Day, and other trendy activities.

To find out if you prefer puppy love or pussycat passion take Guerrero’s quiz by selecting one preference from each line:

__Outdoor stroll to __curling up by a fire
__A good massage or__basking in the sun
__Drool when happy or __purr with bliss
__Engage in group play sessions or __enjoy one-on-one activities
__Enjoy a spa day or __would rather attend to your own personal hygiene
__Take guidance easily or __prefer to be in charge
__Prefer day time activities or __stay up all night
__Relish attention or __prefer to initiate interaction
__Like to share bed with a loved one or __ prefer your own bed

For the key to Guerrero’s quiz visit http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com

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Review copies of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677) are available to journalists. Contact Sterling Publishing Publicity at (212) 532-7160.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS is available for preorder from Sterling Publishing, Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com and will be available at booksellers throughout the United States in April of 2007. Online previews of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS are available online at http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com.

Diana L Guerrero is available for interviews visit http://www.dianalguerrero.com for additional information.

Father Juan Millan of Madrid Bless the Animals

During the feast day of San Anton Father Juan Millan blessed pets during the annual blessing of the animals. Here are a few links you can also click on the slide show once there to see all 26 photos:

Daniel Ochoa de Olza the photographer (you can purchase the photos here

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 1This bulldog is waving and sticking his tongue out.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 2This woman smooches her pug after the blessing.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 3Guide dog blessing.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 4The large dog is being carried for a pet blessing by the owner.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 5This pup is waits for the blessing dressed to keep warm.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 6Blessing an airdale.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 7Blessing a cat.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 8

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 9

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 10Bunny Blessing.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 11Dressed up for the blessing.

Here are some of the articles related to this blessing of the animals:
Madrid, Spain (FOX News)

Saint's Day Blessing