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Story summary
- In Japan, the 7-5-3 festival is expanding to bless pets alongside children.
- Guji Kenji Kaji, chief priest, now blesses pets alongside children as shrines adapt to younger generations.
- The pet industry has surged to about $12 billion since 2019.
- Pet owners invest in elaborate outfits and ceremonies, with shrines reporting more pets than children.
- The trend creates revenue for shrines and lets owners celebrate companions as family.
