YEAR OF THE FIRE DOG 4704(3)

In the Chinese calendar the year 4704 is the year of the Fire Dog and begins January 29, 2006.

The Chinese character associated with this astrological branch, the 11th of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, is Xu. It pictures a halberd, a martial weapon that looks like an ax on a long pole. This protective image gives us an apt symbol for the nature of the chi associated with the Dog, and some insight into the upcoming year.

The Chinese developed several dog breeds but the one most closely associated with the astrological character is the Chow. No docile family pet, this dog was known for its devotion, loyalty, and ferocious courage in defending its master. In battle it would attack the legs of enemy horses, often snapping them in its jaws, and would stay by the side of its fallen master even after death.

This combination of yin devotion and yang protectiveness, gave the dog a special place in Chinese society as guardian of the home. It is said that dogs protect the home, while pigs take care of the people in it.

In astrological symbolism, the Dog is known for its qualities of loyalty, honesty, faithfulness, and devotion to the protection of friends and loved ones. It has a harmonious relationship to Tiger, Horse, and Rabbit, an oppositional relationship to Dragon, and an argumentative relationship with Rooster.

So what can we expect in the coming year?

In general, all of us can benefit from the clarity gained in the past Rooster year if we now devote ourselves to stewardship of what we truly value. There is no deviousness in the Dog. So, though the year will support hard work and honest effort, the outcome will be better if our agenda aligns with our highest values. Dogs work for home and family, not for personal gain.

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People born in the Year of the Dog possess the best traits of human nature.

• They have a deep sense of loyalty and are honest.
• They inspire other people¡¦s confidence because they know how to keep secrets.
• But Dog People are somewhat selfish, terribly stubborn, and eccentric.
• They care little for wealth, yet somehow always seem to have money.
• They can be cold emotionally and sometimes distant at parties.
• They can find fault with many things and are noted for their sharp tongues.
• Dog people make good leaders.
• They are compatible with those born in the Years of the Horse, Tiger, and Rabbit.