Sha-lu is Tibetan for "The Guardian of the realm of Golden Light", the plain where upon leaving Earth, the soul goes to rest while preparing to reincarnate again. Shalu in Tibetan legend is the great white lion which guards and protects the soul on their journey between worlds from Pretas and other forms of evil, hungry ghosts. Sean feels our cat is unique as in Tibetan tradition, they believe that great spiritual masters often take time off between lives and incarnate as beloved pets and companions. We feel this is the case with Shalu and everyone who meets him, feels his special energy and spirit and says that he is the most "uncat-like" animal they have ever met! He and his children, we believe, certainly seem to be endowed with a special intelligence, spirit and sweetness.