Latest trend in dog care, 'doga' or yoga for dogs!

A fitness chain in New York holds monthly yoga classes for dogs called 'Ruff Yoga' at the Madison Square Gardens. Yoga poses are renamed to make them more appropriate for the canine clients - so child's pose becomes puppy's pose.

According to film actress Alicia Silverstone, humans are greedy and selfish and spend a lot of time taking and not giving, whereas animals are not like that. Research indicates that pet ownership positively impacts the owner's life by reducing stress and depression.

Infact, pets have inspired artists and intellectuals and even served as their muse, says the book. John Steinbeck wrote an entire book about his travels with his dog Charley, while French writer Colette wrote a novel based on her cat Saha. Animals also have etched their names in celluloid history by playing lead roles in many box office success.

From Alexander the Great to General Patton, leaders have relied on their pets to be companions as well as protectors. In his will, former French President Francois Mitterand asked that Baltique, his much loved labrador, should walk in his funeral procession.

When Baltique was photographed at the funeral and the details of his behaviour gave rise to analyses of the way animals mourned - Baltique became listless, refused to eat and visibly expressed his grief, says the book.