Year of the Dog 5.2.1994

1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

Whilst talking of the Year of the Rabbit this year, it is worthwile looking at FDC issued by the USA commemorating the Year of the Dog in 1994. Legend has it that, when the great Buddha found enlightenment under the old ‘Bodhi Tree’, he invited all the animals to his kingdom to celebrate. Only 12 animals arrived, and Buddha promptly rewarded them by naming each New Year in honour of them. The order in which the animal arrived at Buddha’s side is significant, for he gave each a special characteristic. The Dog was the eleventh animal to reach Buddha and he was given the motto ‘I am loyal’ and stands for loyalty and justice. People born in the Year of the Dog possess the best traits of human nature. They have a deep sense of loyalty, are honest, and inspire other peoples 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. The next Year of the Dog is in 2018. The USA celebrated the Year of the Dog in 1994, by issuing the displayed stamp and the Cover.