The D+ Kirishima spa in Japan’s Kagoshima Prefecture is believed to be the first one in the world to offer a “Pet Dog Exorcism Plan”. The ritual is performed by a Shinto priest at the revered Shingariyu shrine.

“Seven-year-old, 10-year-old, and 13-year-old dogs need to be careful of their health, as it’s easier in those years for them to gets diseases of aging,” the D+ Kirishima website reads. To help improve their condition, the spa offers an exorcism plant performed by an actual Shinto priest, which allegedly drives away the evil spirits wreaking havoc on the animal’s health. The Pet Dog Exorcism Planv costs 31,000 yen ($293) and includes the 30-minute exorcism ritual, a lavish room for two owners and their dog, breakfast and dinner.

The senior Shinto priest willing to help dogs in their “unlucky health years” will conduct a ceremonial blessing to rid the pooch of evil spirits and pray for its future health. A short video on the D+ Kirishima Instagram account shows a priest in traditional Shinto dress waving an onusa wand (a traditional Shinto ceremonial tool) while the owner holds the animal in his arms. The animal seems pretty calm, so I’m guessing dog exorcisms are a little different than the way they are depicted in horror movies like The Exorcist.

Once the dog has been exorcised, the Japanese spa recommends that it spend some “alone time” at their new private swimming pool which caters exclusively to canines. They are then reunited with their owners for a relaxing kaiseki meal and champagne.

Photos: D+ Kirishima Spa/Facebook

via The Toronto Sun