What is your viewpoint about whether animals have feelings...or not?
@Perspectives (7131)
Canada
January 18, 2008 9:40pm CST
As some of you know who participated in my discussion about having to put our beloved dog Tasha to rest on Tuesday of this week...it has been a sad time in our household. The amazingly touching stories I read from those who responded prompted me to start this discussion. Before doing that I Once again would like to express my deep felt appreciation for the profoundly touching stories I read about members and their pets....and for the loving, generous comments, e-mails and empathic, understanding you offered. The tears I shed were and are very cathartic and part of it came from the full recognition that I feel blessed to be a part of this amazing community called Mylot Land. Our household is adjusting to the absence of Tasha's essence in our home...but she is free and no longer in pain...and we are starting to move into a better space as she would want us to do.
Now this topic came up as David and I observed how our other dog Cherokee and our five cats prepared themselves for Tasha's departure. The vet said to bring her in for 2:00 PM Monday. A couple of days prior to that all the animals were very subdued...the cats were not frolicking in their usual way...and Cherokee..a high energy dog by nature...had his perky ears closer to his head. We all gathered in the great room as Tasha lay on her blanket on Tuesday morning.
I sat on the floor and the animals gathered around in a circle watching and waiting. It was as if they were, in their own way paying a silent homage to the friend they knew was leaving. As I read the responses of others...some had witnessed similar things with their pets when one either was leaving or had left. I would suggest reading Pyewacket's second response to the Tasha discussion and how when one of her cats who was very bonded with one that passed...died a few days later for inexplicable reasons. I have included a photo I posted on the other discussion of Tigger saying goodbye to Tasha as he lay on my lap in quiet repose with his paw gently resting on hers. He had...and has feelings about losing her...just like David and I do regardless of what some may believe out animals cognitive capacities and ability to process what is happening around them.
After David took Tasha and I stayed with our other pets and waited at 2:OO PM sharp...Tigger the cat who was so enamored with Tasha from the first moment we brought him home let out a loud, haunting howl...and ran to the back landing. All this week he has been moping around, lying on her blanket, kneading and sniffing it...and perking up his ears with every unusual sound...as if hoping it is Tasha returning.
So do I believe animals have feelings...absolutely!!!! Fom what I have shared with others here...there are many who are on the same page with me on this one. I have seen documentaries where elephants...and even lobsters will try to help a fallen comrade...and the elephants will stay, circle and trumpet their grief as well.
So I never have...nor will I ever accept what some say about 'dumb' animals. I choose to believe they are bound by the same, loving energetic ties as we are...because as I have said so often before...within my spiritual beliefs. We are all individual...unique energetic chords of love and light within this One Song we call life. Knowing that provides great comfort and makes the special times we enjoy with anyone or anything we love...and 'lose' much easier to bear....at least that is my perspective. Maybe if those who do not accept the idea that animals have feelings could accept that they do the many atrocities humankind puts animals through could be stopped....ah yes like John Lennon said...Imagine what kind of a world we would have if animals were valued for the great additions to our lives that they actually are. Part of the reason I waned to dialog about this...the more we draw attention to their plight the more hope I see for their future life on this planet.
So how about you? Do you think animals have feelings and awarenesses beyond what many believe? If not...how did you arrive at that conclusion? Just another respectful dialog discussion here....and one that I look forward to as always.
Sending warm and appreciative regards back to each of you...
Raia
10 people like this
19 responses
@Aussies2007 (5336)
• Australia
19 Jan 08
I do not know if cats and dogs have feelings like us humans do.
But they have things than we don't.
They have perception and a sixth sense.
I think a dog might miss the company of another dog... more than a cat would miss the company of another cat. I can tell that my cat is very adaptable... and does not give a figue about being 7 weeks in Sydney... away from its home and its wilcat girlfriend.
I believe that cats and dogs have feelings towards us... humans... because they depend on us... like a child do. But a wild cat would have no feelings.
Most animals have feelings for their youngs... but only up to the stage of the young becoming adult... and it is over.
The fact of the matter is that there is no room for feelings in the law of the jungle. It is all about survival... and it is everyone for itself.
Us... humans... are suckers for feelings... that is why we have a population of 6.5 billion people. We are prepared to do what ever it takes... at any cost... to keep everyone alive.
Animals are part of the food chain. Some have to die everyday to feed the other ones. If you put feelings into there... every animal would got nuts.
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
19 Jan 08
I understand your perspective on the predator/prey order of things in the wild and agree that they have to 'be in the moment' and focus on basic instincts in the grand scheme of things.
Bobcat sounds like an adaptable fellow..like his owner. Whether he misses his girlfriend or not...he is still hanging out with you so who knows what he senses about trading one bond for another.
Your point about keeping everyone alive...and populating the earth with more off springs rather than adopting and caring for the many homeless children already here...yep...I am with you on that one too. At least you, David and I are doing our small part by not feeling the need to procreate our genes...(smiles).
Raia
1 person likes this
@polachicago (18716)
• United States
19 Jan 08
Your post made me cry. Do I believe that animals have feelings?
Absolutely. As animal activist, I know for sure that animals have feelings and know about what is going to happen...
They can miss people and other animals.
When I was doing my hardwood floor sealant, my cat for her safety was in garage for 5 days.
She was not eating and wanted to go back home.
She was so happy when back home, she was sleeping hugging my older dog....it was so cute.
I am very sorry that you must say goodbye to your dog.
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
19 Jan 08
Ahhh...sorry about that...I cried while I posted it too...as I have been doing a lot since saying goodbye to Tasha on Tuesday. Did you check out the photo of Tigger and his little paw resting on hers...a touching memory I will probably never forget.
I am an animals rights person too. The post by Goodie is another touching one...as she shared her experiences with their chickens.
How precious to hear about your cat missing her other family member. Our cats and dogs love each other too...so much for those who say they don't get along!
Thanks for your input...
Raia
1 person likes this
@Lakota12 (42600)
• United States
19 Jan 08
You know my feelings on this.
as we had to keep the dogs apart for almost a year not sure what they thought could only let Coe out with Fang and for several days Coe would stand at the gate that we have up between kitchen and rest of the house as if he was waiting for Fang to be pulled or carried thru to go outside.
AS for Cheyenne she told me Fang would be back and played like he was returning whole and talked like he was in the room with us for about a month. Fang was the only one she could play with.
When we brought the ashes home Chey just couldnt understand that that is Fang in that velvet pouch. and she still points at it and says Fang is there?
The Day he went he howlled both inside he house and out side and a few months before he got outin the front and tried to take off down the street but I got him back in and I had a feeling he was wanting then to go away and die like some dogs do.
while waiting to go to the vet got him outside and sat with him and watched as he went from place to place tring to find a comfortable spot on the ground . And he didnt say anything when he got lifed in to the Durango for his last ride he layed there. but when we got him in the vets he wet on the floor where he laid God how hard that was to sign the papers to let him go. and I couldnt stand to sit with him when they put him to sleep.
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@Lakota12 (42600)
• United States
20 Jan 08
no not to much I have been making sure I watch sad shows so when I cry LInda thinks its that show he he he .
The last couple of months I have been crying agian any how for these are months I miss my sweet D.
well miss him all the time but seems something about now its worse and I know mostly to do with Christmas .
Setting in here yesterday all alone there was a sound made that made me think of Fang brushing up against something and maybe knocking it over I looked and never seen any thing out of place but I then pictured him putting his haed in my lap for a petting so I went through the motions.
Glad your friend got there safe and sound and tell her HI from me altho I dont know her would be great to have another friend of yours.
and its always nice to have visiters you dont have to intertain all the time lol
hugs and blessings
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
I am sensitive to how hard any special occasion is when your beloved is not there to share it with...and yes, Christmas and the beginning of a new year seems to bring out more contemplative times.
Yes, it is odd how certain sounds or a felt sense of something leaves a sense of wondering about whether our loves ones are back in their energy forms. Perhaps it is Fang...doing something that he knows you'd be familiar with to assure you he is doing well...and just stopping by for a visit now and then...just like your special D did...and I am sure still does. Maybe he doesn't let you know how often he actually is there because it is too painful right now. I know how sensitive you are to energies...and so does he...I have often perceived him as being closer...but just beyond the edge of your aura...so he can support you...but not add to the sense of loss you experience because he is not in physical form. Just a thought..hope you don't mind me offering my perceptions to you...if they aren't comfortable...just let me know and I will keep my observations to myself out of respect for our friendship...and your safe emotional boundaries.
Thanks for the big smiles...and tickling my funny bone big time. I really enjoyed them...and they are keepers. I will go back and view them again when I need to lighten things up.
Luv ya!
Raia
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Ah...I so know what you mean about not being able to be there when they are put ot rest. Both David and I feel that we do not want them to remember us as the ones who facilitated the end of their lives...even though we are doing it because we love them enough to let them go.
I hope all this talking about Tasha...and the feelings out pets have is not opening your wounds too much. It hasn't been that long since you lost your beloved companion and I am sensitive to that Lakota. Thank you for participating and adding so much of your own experiences as you always do.
Pyewacket posted another poem and I have copied it over for you to read. I know it mirrors a lot of what we are both feeling since our faithful companions had to go.
We'll be keeping in touch. My friend arrived safely and is tired so she went to bed early...gives me a little time to catch up here before signing off. She is so at home here there is no need to entertain her...and that is a wonderful kind of guest to have.
Anyway...here is the poem:
Four Feet in Heaven
Your favorite chair is empty now,
no eager barks to greet me.
No softly padded paws to run,
ecstatically to meet me.
No coaxing rubs, no plaintive cry
will say it's time for feeding.
I've put away your bowl
and all the things you won't be needing.
But I will miss you, my friend,
for I could never measure
the happiness you brought me,
the comfort and the pleasure.
And since God put you here to share
in earthly joy and sorrow,
I'm sure there'll be a place for you
in Heaven's bright tomorrow!
--Alice E. Chase
The website is here
http://www.mogdoggy.com/poetry18.html
@aquajules4 (583)
•
19 Jan 08
Hi
I know animals have feelings, i've been away for a few days for different reasons.
I missed my cat so much, i thought he would just carry on as though i was not here, but apprently my parents told me that he would sit out side my bedroom door waiting for me to open it. He sat there for at least an hour every morning then decided that i was no there so he went and done his own thing.
Today when i came home his little eyes lit up, he has not left my side since i came home.
I am really sorry about your sad news, but like you said at least Tasha is not suffering any more. Take Care
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Ahh...thanks for your condolences over Tasha...how touching it is to be a part of a community that offers such care, compassion and empathy towards each other.
What a sweet story about your cat...we often wonder about our five when we do a short stint away. We have someone check in on them throughout the day...but they wai for us to wake up too...and I wondered if like yours they wait patiently until they realize we are not there. Touching...and a little sad to think of...but that is what makes the bonds we share with our pets so very special.
Lovely addition..thank you.
Raia
@aquajules4 (583)
•
20 Jan 08
I went away because i was having problems with my parents and was going to stay away.
But i missed my cat so much i've managed to patch things up with my parents.
He knows when there is something wrong if i'm sad, he stays by my side and looks up at me with his big eyes. How could anyone walk away from that kind of love. I do spoil him loads but i think he deserves it.
Have a good day, hope you not feeling too sad. I don't know if it's true but i think there is a pet heaven when they go. I have pictures in my head of my other cats and hamsters all getting on together, having so much fun, it's always sunny and lots of green fields and no pain for them to suffer any more.
Tasha is there waiting getting to know pet heaven for when some day she will be joined by the ones she loves. But she is happy i'm pretty sure. Missing You all loads, but she is watching you everyday. When my Nan was alive she loved to see the robin come into the garden. We have one that spends alot of time in the garden and comes very close to me. I just pretend in my head it's her in the body of a robin and she is still looking out for me now. Perhaps you might find something new comes to your garden etc. you could use that as a way of coping with losing Tasha, for all you know it could be her.
Anyway you take care and i hope your not hurting too much.
Jules
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
21 Jan 08
How good to know that you came back home because of the bond you and your cat share...so happy for both of you. Sounds like your need each other...and that he is a kind of guardian, support and protector as you work through the conflicts surrounding your family. I am sending you harmonious wishes and that you will find a way to talk things through, create some boundaries and emotional safety so things will work for the highest good of all there.
How sweet that you can 'read' your beloved pet so well. Thank you for your kind words about Tasha...and yes...that is the one big comfort is that she is not suffering anymore...and is romping around in that big green meadow with all the other pets that have crossed the Rainbow Bridge to the next realm.
Wonderful sharing with you...and my sincere wishes for smoother sailing for you and yours are being sent your way.
Raia
@youdontsay (3497)
• United States
19 Jan 08
I don't think animals have the complex feelings that humans think of as emotions. I do think they have some basic feelings that are part of survival - fear, pleasure, affection - as well as a higher sensitivity to emotional energy. They not only sense when the physical environment is about to change - earthquakes, tsunami, storms - but also when the emotional environment changes. Their senses are more highly developed than ours because it is important to their survival.
I believe that we have the capacity to have highly developed senses, many people do. But I think that we have trained it out of ourselves in order to appear "civilized." Babies sense things before we do. But we parent it out of them. Sad.
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
19 Jan 08
Hello again my valued friend...good to hear from you again. I like what you said and the observation about how animals are so attuned to higher frequency energies. Your observations about how 'civilization' has altered our connection to the natural world and the unseen nuances within spiritual realms is so true...and yes very sad as well. If you looked at the photo of Tigger saying goodbye to Tasha..there is no doubt in my mind what he was and still is feeling at the loss of his friend.
That is why I am so grateful for Mylot and the discussions we share here. They are reminders to me that even though these topics rarely make front page news there are many out there living more conscious, aware lives and that is so evident with the comments and exchanges I read and respond to every day I am here. Yes, knowing you and other light workers are out there has definitely made my world feel warmer and brighter. I see many of you bright fireflies in the shadows...and it is a comforting realization.
Warm and caring regards to you and yours
Raia
1 person likes this
@lonely_f16 (2146)
• Philippines
19 Jan 08
I think they have feelings too for they have brains. I even feel that my dog is like me in some ways. I could see her hurt or angry. It says a lot to have dogs like that.
2 people like this
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
19 Jan 08
Hi and thanks for being the first to respond to this discussion and confirming what many pet loves know...without question.
Yes, it does say a lot to have dogs like that. I think as humans we just need to attune ourselves to their non-verbal cues...because they are there if we pay attention.
Raia
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@bishu_sinha (1457)
• India
21 Jan 08
God created all living thing in this eEarth.
So, Every live things are reprensatative of God.
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
25 Jan 08
I love what you wrote...a beautiful thought and a touching response. Thank you.
Raia
@dodoguy (1292)
• Australia
19 Jan 08
Hi Perspectives,
Of course animals have feelings. Animals, that is, non-humans, have intellects and interior lives in the same way as any other person. Moreover, they are generally a lot smarter than most people give them credit for. In fact, what we might regard as a uniquely human faculty for spoken language is really not as special or unique as most people probably think. Most domestic pets, including cats, dogs, birds, sheep, pigs and horses (for example), can acquire quite a good vocabulary over time, so that they quite definitely comprehend what is being said to them by humans (although the cats mostly could care less). Further to this, several bird families have no difficulty in articulating heir own thoughts in a learned human language - particularly parrots, cockatoos and cockatiels, but also crows, magpies and several others. Thus it should not be a surprise that pet budgies can engage in conversation on subjects that interest them with people that they trust. And like any human child, don't be so sure that the parrot swearing at you from his cage doesn't know what he's saying.
The thing to understand about animals other than humans is that their intellect is different - not in degree or capacity, but in type. They have different aptitudes, different interests, different cultures, and a different way of seeing things than humans. Not one way for humans and another for animals, but a unique perspective for each family of creatures.
So it is heartening to see that humans and companion creatures can so readily establish bonds, and the different creatures with one another also.
We are each here because we exist, not the other way around. The origin of each living thing is unfettered by the constraints of time and space, and neither will those constraints extinguish the spark. In the Christian tradition, in concert with its Jewish heritage, humanity is responsible for dragging all the poor creatures into this sorry material realm from the comfort of Eden, and as Padre Pio was apt to say, the world truly has sorrow for a companion.
Our memories, and hope of seeing them again, serve to temper the sorrow of friends lost. It's said that time heals all wounds, and that may be true whilst we are immersed in temporality - but time is an illusion, a veneer which once removed, will also wash away all the pains of this world.
@dodoguy (1292)
• Australia
19 Jan 08
Also forgot to add - being different as they are, each animal family also has faculties which may be superior or even unique to their own kind. Animals can often see things, and appreciate things, that people generally miss or are totally oblivious to. And like (many) humans, animals can read the minds of those with whom they have strong bonds.
And each animal is just as individual and varied as each human person.
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Hello and welcome. Thank you so much for dropping by to participate in this discussion and adding such an articulate, thoughtful response to a topic subject that is very dear to my heart...being the confirmed animal lover that I am.
I completely agree with your perspective and your spiritual insight to animals and the wonderful gift they are. I appreciate your knowledge about the unique attributes and abilities of different animals of the same species...we have notices that as well. We have a number of aquariums..and even the fish have different traits, some bully, some are timid...some cooperate and others have to be removed and put in another tank. We also had a Cockatoo...and Aime was a highly intelligent...'reasoning' bird and knew who she could bully and when to back off.
Your input on this topic is of great value here...and I appreciate it immensely. Hope to chat again.
Raia
@Mickie30 (2626)
•
19 Jan 08
I believe there is a place in heaven for all animals. In the Bible in Genesis it says that all mankind and animals will have to give an account to God. A lot of Christians don't believe that animals have souls or go to Heaven but, I truly believe that animals have souls and go to heaven. When I read the part in Genesis where it says about animals having to give an account people are very surprised and have to rethink their views. I believe your dog will be running round in Heaven right now.
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Oh Mickie...thank you so much for your touching viewpoint. It is refreshing to hear it because I have come across some Christians that do not believe as you do...but your belief mirrors mine.
Your closing comment about Tasha running around in heaven right now made me smile. She had been soldiering on with her brave heart and strong will even though she was in pain and started falling over without being able to get up. The image you offered is a beautiful one...and I appreciate it.
Raia
@kalav56 (11464)
• India
25 Jan 08
My conviction is that animals DO have feelings.These feelings may not be the same as theose of humans but this does not mean they are dumb.People who thing they do not have feelings,[though I may sound harsh] are 'dumb' and take that superior stance just because we have been gifted with the sixth sense[we can take no credit for this , though].I have also seen these documentaries and the animal instinct of 'survival', and the mothers' instinct to see that their progeny thrive at all costs.
While on the topic, I would like to share a small story in a Tamil film, where an elephant cub is trapped and rudely separated from the mother. The mother elephant is shown to be distraught and finally stomps over and kills the aged woman whose son stole the cub.[this is of course shown as a cinematic coincidence and as poetic justice. The story goes on with the man's efforts to reunite the little one with its grieving mother and the tricks the little one plays on him till she finally accepts his good intentions and accepts him as a friend.Initially she does not know he has had a change of mind and escapes from him providing great humour with her endearing pranks. Very sweet film indeed!
Another article that I read spoke about how certain plants emaanate some defensive secretions when they sense that a predator is nearby and also communicate this to the nearby plants in their own way.All the plants secrete this defensive chemical one after another. I do not rememberthe botanical name but it is true.
If plants can have feelings, why not animals?
Elephants especially are known for their strong sense of family as you had mentioned.
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@kalav56 (11464)
• India
25 Jan 08
what fantastic facts!I have also heard about the plants' response to classical music though not the second part[of rock music]. They are also said to thrive and flower if we whisper to them and I thought then, that it would have been some positive scientific reaction to vibrations.
I should tell my son about the book you have mentioned.He loves all these .
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
25 Jan 08
As our discussions flow into so many diverse areas I think your family, David and I would have some wonderful conversations. Maybe as long distance rates continue to decline in cost the day will come when we could at least talk on the phone one in awhile.
If you son cannot find the book let me know and I will see if I can provide tha author's name and original publisher. It may be out of print because it was published quite awhile ago. However, maybe a library could track it down...as I mentioned it is a good read!
Raia
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
25 Jan 08
I appreciate the way you illustrated why you have a strong conviction that animals do have feelings. Your comments about how some humans do have a superiority complex in relation to animals and their feeling/reasoning states are true...and disheartening at times. If they could appreciate what animals go through maybe there would be greater empathy for them and they would be treated more humanely. I wish!
The Tamil film you describe does sound quiet enchanting...and your reference to plants is another good example of the innate life force within all living things. In traditional Native American spirituality they respect and honor everything within Creation and in my studies of their beliefs I adopted many of their teachings.
There is an older book called the Secret Life of Plants that is an interesting read if you ever come across it. Another study was done where researchers hooked up a lie detector (polygraph unit) to a series of plants. One member on the project killed a plant and the one next to it that was hooked up to the machine showed an erratic response. He left the room...and simply "thought" about killing another one...and the plant had the same response again. Do plants have some telepathic resonance that we are unaware of too? There is so much to consider in what is often taken for granted.
I know they have done studies to see what type of music brings forth greater health for plants and evidently they thrive with classical, melodic music and diminish with acid rock. So here we are enjoying another fascinating discussion with you as always. Just think where our minds would wander and wonder if we could sit for hours and chat over tea or morning coffee. Ahhhh Kalav...if only!
My caring thoughts are with you...
Raia
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@meemingNEW (2226)
• Philippines
19 Jan 08
Of course they do.. That's why maybe animals (dogs in particular) whenever you scold them or yell at em or something, they'll be afraid of you with their sad faces and that. So cute! :) Lol. I really believe that animals have feelings.
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@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Yes, all our animals do not like to be reprimanded either. Even our cats know when they have done something they shouldn't have...and when scolded will often go away and come back after they sense all is forgiven.
So yes, many of are in agreement on this one! Thanks for your comments and observations about pets...
Raia
@applewang (2)
• China
20 Jan 08
Of course they have!
A dog is so loyal to his owner
Even a tiger can take good care of his baby
so ,in my opinion,they have feelings!
1 person likes this
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
21 Jan 08
Hello my new friend. Thank you for the friend request...and I accept it. Let me wish you a warm hello and welcome to Mylot as well. I hope you will have many happy hours making new friends and sharing ideas with us in this great community!
Yes, you are among many others who share the same view here...animals have feelings and show them in a multitude of ways.
Take care and we will be in touch...
Raia
@shekelshekinah (40)
• Philippines
20 Jan 08
I think animals have feeling but i think their feelings differ from our feelings. in the first place they see the world from a different perspective. anatomically, specially mammals have brains which has parts just like us humans but its in different proportions.
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Your views are well presented and valid. I agree with it...and also a lot depends on how they are socialized and domesticated versus how they respond in the wild. Just like humans...they are shaped by a variety of things...and can be very different even within the same species.
Thanks for dropping by...cute Avatar...and welcome to Mylot. Hope you will be happy here...always good to have new members to our community.
Raia
@whiteheather39 (24403)
• United States
19 Jan 08
There is no doubt in my mind that animals do have feelings. I had witnessed too many time mine showing love, loss, curiosity, jealousy, etc., etc. I truly can not imagine my life without animal companionship. Since my early childhood I have never been without a pet even when living in North Africa or traveling for years I had a pet at my side.
1 person likes this
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Knowing how much you love your pets...and animals I am sure you have become quite adept at 'hearing and seeing' what they cannot say in words. I know we do...and their actions speak with such clarity at times it is often rather astounding...as when Tigger let out a distressing yowl the moment they put Tasha to rest..even though he was miles away from the vet.
Raia
@twoey68 (13627)
• United States
4 May 08
I absolutely believe it. When my Petey passed away, Morgana wasn't even a year old yet for days after he passed away she would mope around...looking for him, wondering where he was. She'd sniff at his leash that had hung and still does on our front door handle. I just can't bear to put it away. She doesn't seem to think about it anymore but I do notice when I'm talking to him at night and holding his picture she'll come lay on my back in a way to comfort me. I think that is more though b/c she feels that I am sad. I know she misses her friend and I can't blame her, I still miss him too.
**AT PEACE WITHIN**
~~STAND STRONG IN YOUR BELIEFS~~
@terilee79720 (3621)
• United States
19 Jan 08
Your story is a touching one Perspectives, especially for those who believe the way you do. I believe all animals have feelings and the ability to express them. Animals communicate to each other. We know that. I know animals communicate with us too, if we are open to understanding.
I have similar stories about the animals put into our trust. The dog we have now is an extension our family. I know he speaks to me in so many ways. He tells me what he needs at any given point of the day and expresses his emotions all the time.
1 person likes this
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Thank you for your comments about the discussion...yes these kinds of topics are heart warmers alright. It is a comfort to me to read how many other people out there have a similar belief about animals, their feelings and ability to reason things out in ways that are anything but an expression of 'dumb.'
I can appreciate how your dog part of your family...yes, our furry, feathered and finned friends are that to many of us...and we are fortunate to have the gift of their presence it our lives for as long as we have them. As sad as it is to have to say goodbye...I'd still rather have to grieve for awhile than give up the wonderful times we share. I think it is worth the transitional pain to be able to have the good times with our pets...then remember them forever.
Raia
@Tsferrets (421)
• United States
19 Jan 08
Hi hun..My heart goes out to you and your other pets lose of a true friend. Yes animals have feelings. Those who think not must also have no feeling. They cry or whinper or bark to try to let us know their feelings. They mourn their loses whether that be of fellow play mates or a loved master. They miss their human friends when they go off to school or work for the day and wag their who body when you return as the thier whole world is finally right again. I have 10 pets myself not including the deer, squirrels, birds and stray cats that we feed outside. Who could possibly look into and animals eyes and not see when they are afraid, hurting or joyful and not know they have feeling. My heart aches evry time I see a stray animal wondering the streets loose. All I can think is "Where do they belong - Where is their momma or daddy". My heart cry's for them to be alone, hungry and afraid. Boy I could go on for days of what I'd like to do to people that abuse or just mistreat animals in general. So I won't go there. Thank You so much for your story and taking the time to put your story together so well. God Bless You and all the animals of our world that we have the oppertunity to be able to enjoy. Tammy (Tsferrets)
@munhozmib (3836)
• Sao Paulo, Brazil
19 Jan 08
Hello, Mrs.!
In my humble opinion, I do believe animals have feelings. I do believe animals have more than feelings, aswell, they can think. Anybody who has a dog can know that your dog loves you. Your dog protects you. Raise him well, and you will have a happy home. My dog, for example, is always around us. He wants us to be happy, he stand next to us at many times.
And yes, I do believe animals can think, just not as we humans can. If you teach them to sit, then they'll associate that sitting is equal receiving a snack. You can say that this is instinct, or that it is a common thing. However, for me, if the dog does understand that he has to sit in order to receive a snack, he thinks. Also, my dog, for example. When I'm here on the computer, and it's a sunny day outside, he often comes here and starts scratching me so I can look at him. When I do, he starts walking out of my room and looking back, to see if I am following him. If I am not, he comes back and scratches me again. If I am, he becomes happy (he doesn't laugh, nor smile, but his feeling of happiness is so big that you know he is really happy). He keeps on walking and looking back to see if I am following him. I follow him until the yard, and then he stops in the sun. That's all he wants, company in the sun. It's funny, and show that animals have feelings, needs and that they can think. They don't talk, but they surely know how to communicate us.
By the way, I feel really sorry for your loss, Mrs.
Respectfully.
1 person likes this
@Perspectives (7131)
• Canada
20 Jan 08
Hello my friend...and it is, as always a pleasure to hear from you. Reading your post and how you and your dog relate is a delightful image to envision. How smart your friend is! I love the way he scratches..takes a few steps...checks....and keeps it up until you 'read' what he wants and act upon it.
This is yet another examples of what most pet owners quickly discover...that our animals speak volumes...even without the words. All it takes is a keen eye...some intuitive knowing and a belief that they can and do relate to us in reasoning ways and with a whole lot of heart and love.
Thank your for your kind condolences about putting Tasha to rest...thank you. I feel the genuineness of your offering...and with the sensitivity to hearing your dog as he speaks to you I know you can empathize and I appreciate that.
Warm and caring regards to you my friend,
Raia
