WHAT’S YOUR PETS SIGN?

Ever wonder what astrological sign your dog is? Does your young cairn terrier act wild like a typical Gemini? Is your golden retriever a “me-first” Aries? Well, that pet of yours may have a personality that is affected by more than their age or breed. Like people, astrology (the position of planets) can play a role in pets' behavior and may indeed affect pet affairs.

If you can determine what sign your pet is, it can help you to learn how to cope with your four-legged companion's personality traits and will lead to a happier and healthier life for both of you. To find out which sun sign (and other astrological clues) fits your pet, read on...

Find Out Your Pet Pal's Birthday

For starters, if you have a pedigree dog you can thank your lucky stars. Because the odds are good that if Fido has papers, the birth date of your pet is already documented for you. If you purchase a purebred German shepherd from a breeder, for example, just look at the Registration Certificate. You'll find the date above Date Of Birth, e.g. Feb. 25, 2005. Then you will know that your dog is a Pisces.

But since the most popular of all dogs has no pedigree you may have to play detective in order to find out when your pet was born. One black and white stray mixed-breed dog, for instance, was born under a house. A rescue organization saved him. One year later, the dog was adopted by an astrology buff who soon inquired about his birth date. The rescuers counted back 12 months. The dog was born in early summer and was believed to be a Cancer (June 22-July 23).

If you end up adopting an animal shelter dog, chances are less likely of finding out your pet's exact astrological sign. But if the animal is part of a litter (just weaned at six weeks) you can also count back in time. (If it is November 20th go back to October 6th and kiss your Libra pet hello.)

The glitch is, plenty of people are clueless about the birth dates of their pets (perhaps because they were strays or adopted as adults at a shelter). The good news is, you can still decode your pet's sign by knowing the characteristics of astrological signs and deciding which traits best fit your canine companion.

The Sun Signs and Pets

So what exactly is a Sun sign? Simply put, the sun travels around the earth once each year. Within the space of that year the Sun moves through 12 signs of the zodiac (a band of the celestial sphere that symbolizes the planets, moon, and sun). And, it's these 12 signs of the zodiac which show traits that are key to your pet's personality.

In astrological terms, the sun is considered a planet. It is also key to your pet's horoscope (an astrological forecast of a pet's future based on the planets and stars), and in many ways determines how others see your pet. The position of the Sun in your pet's birth chart affects his individuality and general character. Is Rover friendly? Does he cope with stress? Is he high strung or laid-back? The answers may be found in your pet's Sun sign.

The 12 Sun signs (which may vary within a few days each month according to different astrologers) are divided into four groups which contain three signs. Each group, also known as triplicity, signifies an element: Fire, Earth, Air and Water.

Fire Signs: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius: active and passionate
Earth Signs: Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn: practical and secure
Air Signs: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius: intelligent and talkative
Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces: emotional and sensitive

Your Four-legged Friend's Traits

Aries: bold, athletic, adaptable, impatient and impulsive
Taurus: affectionate, patient, stubborn, strong-willed and quiet
Gemini: agile, alert, restless, vocal and fickle
Cancer: loyal, gentle, grumpy, clingy and devoted
Leo: fearless, energetic, dominant, demanding and gregarious
Virgo: shy, aloof, intelligent, charming and finicky
Libra: easygoing, peaceful, lovable, people-oriented and smart
Scorpio: responsive, independent, possessive, strong-willed and loving
Sagittarius: free-spirited, playful, amusing, curious and friendly
Capricorn: reserved, cold, territorial, good-natured and patient
Aquarius: independent, rebellious, people-oriented, aloof and outgoing
Pisces: touchy, devoted, sweet-natured, adaptable and unpredictable

Astrology Animal Talk

·  What Is Your Pet's Moon Sign?

Each month the New Moon and Full Moon can reflect both you and your pet's inner desires, emotions and true feelings. And your pet's Moon sign does this, too. To find out what your pet's Moon sign is, you must know what his Sun sign is. Then, you can turn to an astrology book and go to Moon Tables. Just look up the year, month and day your pet was born. For example, if your Brittany was born September 22, 1989 you've got his Moon sign in the bag. Or you may even find out that he was born on the “cusp” of two Sun signs.

·  Born On The Cusp

A cusp is the point at which a new astrological sign starts. When someone says my pet was “born on the cusp” he is referring to a birth time near the beginning and end of an astrological sign. For instance, if your dog was born on September 22, he is a Virgo (August 24-Sept. 23) born on the cusp of Libra, the sign that begins on September 24th. The consensus is that your pet was born on the cusp if his birthday is within the first five or last five days of a sign. And that's not all.

·  Your Pet's Rising Sign

Like people, your pet has a Rising or Ascendant sign which also plays a role in his horoscope. The Rising sign determines how the outside world sees your pet physically. To find out your pet's Ascendant, you need to know your pet's Sun sign and time of birth, and then, go to an Ascendant Table found in astrology books. (Some conscientious breeders and backyard breeders may document a pet's time of birth.)

·  The Planets

While the Sun and Moon play a part in your pet's personality, so do the planets: Mercury (the mind), Venus (love), Jupiter (great-heartedness), Saturn (discipline), Uranus (individuality), Neptune (sensitivity) and Pluto (change). What's more, if you happen to know your pet's exact birth date you can have a complete astrological chart done (just like people do for themselves) to find out how each planet plays a specific role in your pet's life. An astrologer can do this for you.

 

ARIES (MAR. 21 – APR. 20)
This year is a time for Rams to experience more, and move less. Tune into your animal instinct for signs about you and your family's life. Often you are ready to pounce on something new. In 2007, think before you leap.

Animal and Human Relationships: Now is the time to open up and provide comforting companionship to people and pets. Do take advantage of the rewards (i.e., treats or hugs) of good communication.

Health and Well-being: Speaking of tuning into your intuition, don't tune out your body during the spring time. A visit to your vet, Ari, to tweak that junk food diet may be what you need to stay bold and strong like Arien pets can be.

2007 Pet Tip: Be prepared for novelty and sniff the new sensory delights of the four seasons.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Aries Doris Day-Founder and President of The Doris Day Foundation.

TAURUS (APR. 21 – MAY 21)
Thanks to generous Jupiter, this is luxury-loving Bulls' time to enjoy a new-and-improved home, pet-friendly vacation getaways, and state-of-the-art pet toys and beds. On the downside, you may have to share your space with another human or pet—but it won't be a forever thing.

Animal and Human Relationships: Pet events, kids, and fun pet-related activities are in the stars for you from winter to spring. Get ready to get out of the house and enjoy the great outdoors.

Health and Well-being: Don't let your ears perk up or yowl if you find yourself sitting in the waiting room at the vet's office before the summer. It may be time to get a head to paw check-up so you can be in tip top shape for the summertime.

2007 Pet Tip: Vow to appreciate your human caretakers in your life, and be the faithful pet that you are meant to be.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Taurus Jay Leno-Animals often make a guest appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

GEMINI (MAY 22 – JUNE 21)
This year 2007 is the time when you turn a new paw, fin or feather and truly hear your humans—and get it. The year's four eclipse influence your change for the better, whether it is acceptance of a new pet roomie or enjoying a more active life outside your past normal daily grind.

Animal and Human Relationships: New pet pals, animal-related organizations, and pet people may find you and you will feel freedom and unleashed.

Health and Well-being: The beginning of this year through the spring and pre-fall may be time to make changes in your exercise routine. P.S. Lose the high calorie snacks for your body's sake.
2007 Pet Tip: Your intelligence will help you to adapt and face any new situation.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Gemini Joan Rivers-is a known devout dog lover.

CANCER (JUNE 22 – JULY 23)
It's the year for Crab critters to communicate on a deeper level with pets and people. No more secrets. Like Geminis, this year's sun and moon eclipses affect you—but rather than socializing with a wide variety of acquaintances you may develop a stronger bond one-on-one with a fellow pet or human.

Animal and Human Relationships: You may face pesky non-thinking squabbles with bully pet roomies and/or your caretakers or strange animals running loose in your neighborhood.

Health and Well-being: If you learn to run not walk away from confrontation, you will not feel stress. Summer months are ideal for coping with a new lifestyle chock-full of regular exercise and rest periods. Translation: You will purr or wag your tail often.

2007 Pet Tip: Come out of your shell and resolve to relinquish insecurities with animals or humans.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Cancer George Bush-The President has had a long history of pets and his current canine companion is Barney, a black Scottish terrier.

LEO (JULY 24 – AUG. 23)
Lion pets enjoy companionship in 2007. This is a great ego boost for Leo animals because they love to be around people and pets, all sizes, all ages. It will be a grand year for single pets who have been craving warm and fuzzy feelings.

Animal and Human Relationships: On the flip side, your new friends may have a secret agenda or weaknesses that you will see clearly. But note, you can and will practice coping skills (think safe spot) to beat pet high anxiety.

Health and Well-being: Energize yourself with a healthful diet, more premium food (turn your nose up at the generic brand), and interactive toys.

2007 Pet Tip: Be happy, don't worry.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Leo Martha Stewart-is a devout cat woman and has featured animal experts on her TV show.

VIRGO (AUG. 24 – SEPT. 23)
In 2007, count on a move with your family. Blame it on a variety of energizing planets but change may do you good. It's time to let go of your shy behavior and toss caution to 2006. It's a time to start fresh oh practical one and be Top Cat or Top Dog.

Animal and Human Relationships: If the move isn't enough to move you, you can bet that your family members will be turning to you for comfort, guidance, and companionship.

Health and Well-being: Pay attention to your keen sixth sense to stay balanced and emotionally well. If you need your safe haven—go to it without hesitation.

2007 Pet Tip: Vow to love yourself first and you will have more to give to humans and fellow animals.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Virgo Michael Jackson-is well-known for his exotic animals at his Neverland Ranch and often touted for his love of animals.

LIBRA (SEPT. 24 – OCT. 23)
The New Year finds you focusing on finding a delicate balance for you body, mind and spirit. Good stress can make both finicky Virgos and perfectionists Libras feel unbalanced but you will set your paws on staying grounded this time around.

Animal and Human Relationships: Listen to your inner voice—it will help peace-loving Librans to communicate their needs and get pampered with a capital “P.”

Health and Well-being: Exercise, exercise, exercise. No matter what season it is Lib, make sure you also get plenty of R&R to help you stay balanced.

2007 Pet Tip: Be the animal you strive to be and help others achieve their happiness.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Libra Suzanne Somers-has a line of makeup products not tested on animals as well as offers animal print bangle bracelets.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24 – NOV. 22)
Welcome to 2007, Scorpy. Yes, new love and doing things differently will add gusto to your existence. Forget about Scorpion fears, petty jealousy, and sibling rivalry. This is the time to enjoy and show off the new you.

Animal and Human Relationships: Still, challenging times may time from time when dealing with chaos on the home front—but you make it work.

Health and Well-being: Spring is your time for nurturing. A groomer, vitamins, and pet massage may be the things on your caretaker's calendar that keep you perky.

2007 Pet Tip: Be open to new experiences and discover the upbeat beast in you.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Scorpio Loretta Swit, an animal person, is associated with Actors and Others for Animals.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 – DEC. 21)
This will be a year of good cheer for you and yours. Jupiter, a giving planet, is to thank for your zest for going for it, whatever it may be. Note: Don't hold back, Sag. Snag your pleasure and run (or slither, fly or swim) –do not walk away.

Animal and Human Relationships: On the other paw, new friendships may move into and out of your world like a whirlwind but you will find it all a safari-like adventure.

Health and Well-being: Spring may be a time your nervous system needs a boost. A pet specialist (vocalize yourself so your humans take you to one) may be in order and counting to 10 in animal-ese is a must-do instead of ruffling your feathers or having a hissy fit.

2007 Pet Tip: Resolve to confront others but with the craft of a mellow pussycat.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Sagittarius Dick Clark-Dogs play a big role in this well-known celeb's life offstage.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 – JAN. 20)
While other pets are dealing with changes on the planet and in the home, you will be looked after instead of looking after others for a change. Read: It's your year to be pampered and appreciated. Go on, roll over and shut your eyes.

Animal and Human Relationships: As a social, action-oriented critter, don't be surprised if you relish lone days and nights and don't bark or yowl or sit depressed in a corner. But do socialize on occasion for your sanity's sake.

Health and Well-being: To soothe yourself during the cold months, hang out by the heater or sunny windows. In the warmer months take cover under a shaded tree or cool spot in the house.

2007 Pet Tip: Take time out to tune into you and enjoy self-reliance.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Capricorn Betty White-This actress is a pet enthusiast and animal welfare activist.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 – FEB. 19)
Water Bearer it's time to get the best of both worlds this year, due to the planets affecting your sun sign. If you give-and-take cuddles and strokes, you can help yourself to help others achieve happiness and peace no matter what changes happen in your world.

Animal and Human Relationships: Team up with your humans, whether it is exercise or down time. Yep, animals and humans can become best friends with no strings attached.

Health and Well-being: In the spring you may benefit from a pet professional to help balance any negative emotions. Think of it as a time to detox your inner being so you can enjoy the summer as well as the other seasons.

2007 Pet Tip: Resolve to be man or woman's loyal confidant no matter what happens.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Aquarius Paul Newman-Newman's Own Organics is his premium pet food line; he donates to animal organizations.

PISCES (FEB. 20 – MAR. 20)
This year is the time for Pisces pets to get TLC. If you felt ignored or neglected last year, now is the time to get your attention. Psst: The planets and four eclipses are on your side to make it right in the upcoming months.

Animal and Human Relationships: People will come to you and offer praise for your good traits. Keep in mind, you are a touchy-feely animal so pay back the compliment with a nudge (or two). It will make bonus good pet points.

Health and Well-being: Before the summer rolls around, do whatever you have to do to get your caretakers to take inventory of your diet, exercise, and lifestyle. After all, it's your 2007 to enjoy. Cheers!

2007 Pet Tip: Do hold your head up high and enjoy the good vibes from people and pets.

Animal-Loving Celebrity: Pisces Nancy Wilson-Her dogs are pampered pooches, whether it be staying at 5-star hotels to traveling in private jets.