Does your dog seem tense and stiff? Maybe even a little crabby? If so, consider giving him a massage. A properly performed massage can help release pent up stress and negative energy, resulting in a calm and more peaceful pet.

The sensation of simple touch of the fur (skin) to the manipulation of muscles has shown to enhance the human animal bond, and sometimes even establish it. For the inactive and older pet, as well for the young or working pet, the owner can provide a gentle comforting touch. This helps provide security and calmness and will aid in relieving stress. Be aware that at home massage is different than the massage done by a certified massage therapist. These trained people can provide a more thorough massage, incorporating a variety of techniques. The benefits from massage are many:

• Increased flexibility

Massage should always be a calming and gentle activity. Before you begin, make sure your dog is in a comfortable and quiet place. A table, the floor or even on the couch, are good places. The area should be padded and clean, and have plenty of fresh water available. This will allow the pet to receive the most benefit from the massage. The most important part of a massage is relaxation. Do not force your pet to submit to a massage if he really isn't interested. Never massage a lump and do not use massage in an animal with a fever or an infection. As with anything else, there may be times when massage does not help
A couple of basic techniques that you can use at home include effleurage and passive touch. These are applied only three times during each session.

Effleurage
Effleurage is a gentle, long stroke, which helps to warm the tissue. The amount of pressure applied to the animal is about 5 grams to a pound. This is a very, very light touch. One hand is on the pet at all time, while the other hand slowly slides down over the face, head, body, tail and outside of the legs. Make sure to go in the direction of the hair growth. Next, gently stroke up the inside of the legs, against the hair growth.
With hand over hand efflurage, one hand starts a stroke as the other hand ends a stroke. This leaves one hand connected to the animal at all times. Centripetal efflurage is a circle motion toward the heart. Be careful not to pull the hair. Do not touch areas of infection, open wounds or lumps.

Passive Touch
When passive touch is applied, it is done with no pressure at all. Your hand is held on a muscle group only. A hand is held on the head, shoulder, along the side or the thigh and hip. This is done for a few moments. It will produce calmness, and help to relieve some pain. Your pet will be comforted by this weightless touch. Passive touch can be done anytime, while watching television or while out on a walk. Again, areas of infection, bony areas, open wounds and lumps are not touched.

I hope this helps you and your pet to have a nice calming session together.
• A general sense of wellness
• Reduction of pain (in older dogs)
• Increased circulation
• Calmness (I feel this is the most important)

Are you ready? The word is, this New Year is one for change. True, this year will be a wild adventure but you and your humans can reap great rewards if you tune into Mother Nature's ups and downs and help your humans go with the flow. So, let the New Year roll in my fellow animal companions. Be good. (But a little mischief is sweet for the soul.) Stay cool.
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.

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.

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.
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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 fur or having a hissy fit.
2007 Pet Tip: Resolve to confront others but be mellow.

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.

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.

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.

I hope you had fun reading this. I did.

Cooking for your pets can be very rewarding. You know they are getting wholesome foods and it gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Winter months can bring dry skin. This recipe adds the needed nutrients your pup may need.
Dog Oil Supplement
Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil


• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1/4 cup cod liver oil
• 1/4 cup flax seed oil
*

• 2 cups rice
• 2 packages regular flavor oatmeal (mixed with milk)
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/3 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 1/2 tbs brown gravy mix
• 4 tbs applesauce
• 1/2 tbs vegetable oil