Why We Love Cats and Dogs
Whether or not you love cats and/or dogs, you may have watched the PBS show titled, "Why We Love Cats and Dogs."
The episode, part of the television network's Nature series, aired on Feb. 15. Unlike Nature's usual documentaries, this episode focused on the relationship between humans and animals, instead of on the animals in their natural habitats.
"I don't have a pet and never have, and I have no desire to," said Fred Kaufman, 17-year veteran executive producer of PBS's Nature. But he said he was fascinated by the close relationships many people have with their pets, according to Zootoo.com.
So what exactly makes us adore these canines and felines? According to the L.A. Times, unconditional love plays a role. The documentary stated that these animals provide endless opportunities for kisses, cuddles, laughter, and slobber, delighting humans anytime during the day.
Other people in the documentary explained that their pets helped them cope during times of sickness, loss, and helped them to mature, reported the New York Times.
There were also scientific standpoints. According to Zootoo.com, evolutionary biologist and professor emeritus at the Univ. of Colorado, Marc Bekoff, brought up the notion of "mirror neurons." This concept suggests that shared emotions and empathy biologically connect humans to their four-legged companions.
"So little is actually known about [our relationship with our pets] and yet millions and millions of us have it," said animal behaviorist Sarah Wilson, who also appeared on the show. "It amazes me that there is hardly any research on it."
A commonly unknown fact is that we can eliminate cats' behavioral problems. Faculty member of Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Nicolas Dodman, explained that this can be done by engaging the cat in training and agility exercises.
Interspersing the scientific commentary were pet owners' personal stories about their cats and dogs. One of the stories was of a dog named Jerry a victim of canine cancer with three amputated legs. His owners sold their home and business to travel across the country with him in their RV. It was how they wanted Jerry to spend his last few months of life.
"That is very moving, and many people can relate to a pet who is coming to the end of their lives," Kaufman said of Jerry's story, according to Zootoo.com.
Other commentary shared by pet owners included a man who said his dog had taught him how to love. "I never thought I would get that from a dog," he said, reported the New York Times.
A blogger on Pbs.org, Tracey Clark, summed it all up in one sentence. "The connections we make and the relationships we forge with these animals regardless of species are meaningful and important and real; part logic, part magic, but totally undeniable."