Each year around this time the Chinese celebrate the New Year based on the lunar calendar. They are named around the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Last year was the Year of the Rooster, and this is the Year of the Dog. Also, different elemental signs are also associated with each year, which makes this Year of the Earth Dog. 1982, which happened to be the year I graduated from Vet School at Texas A&M University, was also a Year of the Dog
The dog is the symbol for loyalty and honesty. Humans born in the Year of the Dog may possess traits like honesty, friendliness, faithfulness, loyalty, and intelligence. But they may also be self-righteous, stubborn, cold, and critical. I think the positive traits sound like a perfect canine companion.
Traditionally, the New Year celebration is the most important festival of the year, a time of renewal, clearing out the bad and starting fresh. It lasts for 15 days, with different activities each day, culminating in Lantern Feast on the 15th day. Each food has symbolism, with lots of red and oranges (for luck) items. Many whole fish and uncut noodle dishes are served. Money is often given as gifts in little red envelopes. I have had the good luck to attend 2 feasts in Richardson where 12 people sit around a round table, and course after course of traditional foods are served family style. Yum. Day 2, Feb 17th this year, was the birthday for all dogs.
So let’s enjoy this Year of the Earth Dog. Celebrate those ideal canine qualities. (We can’t celebrate Year of the Cat because they aren’t on the zodiac- but that is a different story) Next will be Year of the Pig. And this Thursday, February 22 is National Margarita day! Ole!
