Career: Although the current is smoother now, you still need to continue with your work etiquette (i.e. put your early trainings to good use—stop soiling indoors or going on insect hunting spree). It will be a social year for the already popular Horse so spend more time build up new network and work to improve existing relationship with business associates and canine-colleagues. There will be benefactors, both canine and human, coming in to aid you in your career. For those canines taking training programs (e.g. agility, flyball, guide dog) to advance their career, this is the best year to do so. You will pass with flying colors and advance quickly.

Wealth: Your benefactors will help you to attain success on the career front, bringing in abundant wealth especially in financial and property areas. Considering all options you must, but your decision have to be decisive because repeated changes show you lack of professionalism (e.g. resulting confusion among peers) and might cause failures (e.g. affect the cooperation ties in the pack). Although wealth is abundant but it comes just as easily as it vanishes. Hence you must plan carefully otherwise you have a tendency to overspend due to your need for extravagant lifestyle.

Romance: A social year for the already popular Horse and things will look up romantically. However do not overindulge in your love life and sexual conquest (i.e. on a constant love or mating pursuit and neglect your life mission—show and teach unconditional love to all mankind). Attached and married canines beware of third party interference. Avoid straying either. Be contented with what you’ve got because que sera sera.

Health: It is very important to have more rest despite your busy schedule. Without sufficient hours of sleep, you will be unable to have a clear mind. In turn, you might make wrong business decisions. Avoid indulging in carbonated drinks (quit stealing foods from your human companion’s fridge) and secret rendezvous to manage your work stress. It is better to engage in outdoor exercises to strengthen your physique in order to cope with your busy work and social life.

The Horse

Jan 27 1990 ~ Feb 14 1991 (Metal)
Feb 12 2002 ~ Jan 31 2003 (Water)
Jan 31 2014 ~ Feb 18 2015 (Wood)

2009 Bearish Markets?

As there is an absence of the fire element, financial markets are more likely to be bearish than bullish. In additional, it is best to approach any financial matter with caution nevertheless there’s still money to be made but only with patience and conservatism. For example, stocks on basic necessities (i.e. dog food, vet care) would yield better returns than stocks on luxury goods and services (i.e. dog spa resort companies).

Another example, your human companion may cut your treats budget by 50% in order to save more on emergency cases or invest in pet insurance, hopefully. Thank her or him for being thoughtful. You know too much of those treats will do you more harm than good. Instead of whining about not having enough food treats, beg your human companion to give you more massages or take you for longer walk. It’s high time to shed off those thanksgiving and Christmas calories.

More Conflicts and Tension in 2009

And with a global recession, it is without a doubt 2009 will be an intense year filled with trials and tribulations—not a jazzy and exciting Ox year to say the least. Some conflicts are bound to happen at home and at work mainly due to lack of patient and communication. It is advisable to keep a cool head and stay objective always (i.e. bark only when necessary). Great effort, wholehearted commitment, and responsibilities (i.e. show your human companion what you are capable of as a individual than that cutesy face of yours) will be your main focus in order reap what you sow or avoid unfavorable surprises.

For those canines in the show biz (i.e. dog model, show dog) you need to put in conscientious efforts to nail that Jerky treats advertisement contract or the best of breed ribbon. You may be very good at flaunting your assets to get where you want to be, but not this year. Looks (even if you’re utterly cute) won’t get you far, or more treats. Listen canine comrades, you’ve got to stay grounded (remember, Ox plows the field) and wag your tails harder if you want to maintain the comfort and steady lifestyle you’ve been having. As for those dogs in the working and service sectors, your life won’t be much different either. Being a longtime hardworking dog, however, these tribulations won’t affect you much. They’ll probably feel like going through obstacle courses for the very first time.

There’s Still Money To Be Made In 2009

Fret not,  2009 isn’t about all gloom, despair, and barren, just be patient and hang in there. It will bear fruits (not a whole lot on windfall) and things will begin to ease up in early fall. Just remember, everything will sort itself out if we stick to routines, basic fundamentals, and systematic approaches (i.e. regular meals, walks, fitness and training programs). Ox favors discipline. No shortcuts, no fancy gimmicks, just be diligent and you will be rewarded accordingly. For all you know, you may not even feel 2009 any different from those good years you had.

Keynotes to Human Companions:

Career: Even as companion dogs, their role is as significant if not more than those with jobs. Sledge dogs, military dogs, police dogs, show dogs, dog models, rescue dogs, therapy dogs, service dogs, detection dogs, livestock guardians to name a few. In another words, all dogs (including stray dogs) are destined to have career and life purpose.

Wealth: With careers, comes wealth. And since dogs cannot be legally employed and draw an income, nonetheless they will be “paid” through various means such as treats, toys, outdoor activities, spa treatments.

Financial Investment: From the dog’s perspective, their basic necessities (treats, toy, playtime, nap) are their financial investment.

Read on to see what good fortunes the year of the Ox has installed for you and your human companion.

• Rat: 1996, 2008
• Ox: 1985, 1997, 2009
• Tiger: 1986, 1998
• Rabbit: 1987, 1999
• Dragon: 1988, 2000
• Snake: 1989, 2001
• Horse: 1990, 2002
• Goat: 1991, 2003
• Monkey: 1992, 2004
• Rooster:1993, 2005
• Dog: 1994, 2006
• Pig: 1995, 2007

Renée: Since this is Snowball regular “column” and he’s no longer with me; I’ve appointed Zody and Kiki (a Silkie, latest additional to the family) to take over this segment. Thank you for your past support and I hope you  extend the same loving support to Zody and Kiki.

Zody and Kiki: We’ll be posting one Chinese zodiac daily before Lunar New Year begins on 26th January, 2009

Disclaimer: This forecast is provided for your general information only. The degree of impact for each canine or human varies.