So, you've examined your photo and understand its personality. All that's left to do now is roll up your sleeves and start decorating.

Where do you start? First of all, if you haven't done so already, separate the frame's front from the detachable backing that keeps the glass and photo in place. While you're at it, remove the glass as well (but be careful -- it's sharp).

The next step might be painting the frame. To make a suitably playful frame for a lively picture, choose a bright color (or two) suggested by the photo itself. Maybe afterwards you'll want to cover it with a layer of crunchy pet treats (after first giving each treat two thorough coats of polyurethane); the treats can then be painted bright colors. Or instead of treats, you could glue on bits of confetti. Whatever you choose, it's bound to be fun.

What if the picture's a formal portrait? You can make the frame just as dignified by painting it an appropriately refined color (choose the darkest color in the photo, or stick with rich black or deep brown). Dog tags glued in overlapping rows could look nice. Or glue a strip of dog-collar material all around the edge for a tailored look.

Outdoorsy photos are a real treat, because you can use natural materials to create interesting effects. The frame can be covered with little sticks for a rustic, woodland feel. Or apply small shells to evoke a sandy oceanfront setting. If the picture's a vacation photo, you could cover the frame with bits of torn-up maps. Then again, maybe you'll just want to paint the frame sky-blue smudged with fluffy white clouds.

Urban settings can lead to frames that are especially cool. Bits of hardware look terrific glued onto black-painted frames. Or use bottlecaps, watchworks -- anything that feels kind of industrial. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination and the personality of your photo.

Laminate your greatness.

Is it done? Well, almost. After you've painted, glued, or otherwise modified your frame, there's one last step: coating the whole front of it with polyurethane -- that's just a complicated word for plastic. Brush it on, let it dry according to the directions, and give it another coat or two to completely seal your handiwork (and to keep the crunchy treats, if you used them as decoration, from driving your pets completely wild). The polyurethane may go on milky-white, but it will dry clear, glossy, and professional-looking.

When your frame is completely dry, insert the glass, photo, and the backing. Then step back and enjoy your accomplishment. You've rescued a great photo of your pet from untold neglect; and through your efforts, made it even more special.

You should be very pleased with yourself. At least, until you notice all the photos you didn't frame. Close that photo drawer quick!

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