The Chinese zodiac is a 12-year cycle in which each year is attributed a particular animal, such as the rat, the tiger or the dragon. You can easily find which animal is associated with your year of birth on a Chinese zodiac calendar, either online or in a book. Each animal carries with it a list of character traits, such as resourcefulness and bravery, that are said to be attributes of those born in each particular yearly cycle.
Most people have a favorite animal, either for its outward appearance or inward demeanor. You can choose the animal that best suits your personality or your desired personality. Men may want an animal that denotes a level of power or prowess, such as a bear or wolf, while women may want something that implies beauty or dedication, such as a peacock or a penguin.
Seven of the 12 astrological symbols in the western zodiac are non-human animals. If you were born under the sign of Aries (ram), Taurus (bull), Cancer (crab), Leo (lion), Scorpio (scorpion), Capricorn (goat) or Pisces (fish), you may wish to tattoo the corresponding animal. Like other zodiac symbols, each is attributed an amount of characteristics that are said to be processed by those born under specific signs. The other five symbols can be tattooed in tribal form as well, but they are all human except for the inanimate weighing scales of Libra.
If you wish to give your tattoo a memorial theme in recognition of loved ones, alive or dead, choose the animals that best resembles their personalities. Choose an animal that portrays leadership, such as an alpha-male gorilla, or one that implies protection, such as a large mother condor with her wings spread. To make the memorial tattoo more significant toward a particular person, include the person's name or initials underneath the animal.