Chinese New Year 2018 - year of the dog!

The Chinese calendar is based on the lunar year, so the date of New Year changes every year. It follows a 12-year pattern with each year named after an animal. The animals are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (or Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Boar (or Pig). People are supposed to show characteristics of the animal from the year they were born. Characteristics for the Dog include – Clever, friendly and honest; good at keeping secrets!

Did you know that some teachers take their dogs into school to encourage children to read? When children find it hard to read to a grown up and lack confidence, they find it easier to read to a friendly dog.

Read the following blog to find out more about dogs in school: A dog in school? Barking mad or paws for thought!

TTS Employees are celebrating their cute pooches by sharing photos. Meet the dogs and owners in our gallery below.

Hi, I’m Rufus, a Sealyham Terrier. I’m told that I’m rather irresistible and a bit of a magnet! I have to say I appreciate all the attention, but my real passion is crisps.

Hi I’m Richard, I’ve been at TTS 6 years, and enjoy my role as Maths Category Manager. Every day there’s a new challenge that keeps me engaged.

My name is Lola, I am a showgirl (well actually I’m a Frenchie). I love a good belly rub and chasing my big brother Bailey around. My partner in crime is Bailey, a really cool beagle. His favourite things are investigating smells outdoors, and spending time with me, but don’t tell him I said that!

Nice to meet you – I’m Bradlie, and I’ve only been at TTS a few weeks, but already it feels like home. I’m a Merchandising Manager, and make sure that all of our lovely products are easy to find and look amazing.

I am a god – that’s why they called me Zeus, well actually I’m a Fox Red Labrador. Heaven for me is eating, not just dog food, but food – any food. As I’m a god I like to play at being a mountain goat, and spend my time balancing on furniture.

Hiya, I’m Rebecca and I’m a Digital Designer. I love a bit of colour and ensure that TTS visuals are sparkly and attractive.

Greetings, I’m Tia, a loveable Black Labrador. My passion is tennis balls and swimming, I could have been an athlete. My partner in crime is a ginger cat, but that doesn’t stop me pursuing my other hobby, chasing cats.

Hello I’m Cheryl. After years teaching I’ve recently joined the TTS team as Category Manager for Literacy. At last I’ve got time to develop and explore loads of amazing resources – heaven!

Hello, my name is Gucci, an excitable Yorkshire Terrier. I love playing and my favourite toy is my ball. Bath time is great fun, and I have all my own accessories.

Good to meet you, I’m Deimante and I work in the Trade and Export team. I arrange transport and prepare all the documentation to make sure that our goods get through customs.

Buna (that’s Hello in Romanian), I’m Molly. I might be a mix of Jack Russel and Collie, I’m not sure really, I just know I’ve got a long nose and huge ears. I’m a little nervous as England’s my new home. I love chasing squirrels and playing with my squeaky ball, then having a nap on my warm bed.

How do you do? My name is Nala and I’m a Belgian Malinois. I acquired my human twelve months ago when I took pity on him and decided he needed some companionship. In this time I have come to dominate his life and make sure each day is ruled by my whims…further training is required.

Hi, I’m Jake and TTS has been part of my life for the last 9 years. I work in the amazing creative services team, controlling our print and design requirements.

Hey you – down here! I’m Taco a Chihuahua. Don’t think my size makes me afraid of ANYTHING, nothing scares me. The best part of my day is cuddling up with my human and getting as much sleep as possible.