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Welcome back inside this edition of Sustainable Tails where we’ll be taking a look at some intriguing topics. Have you ever wondered about the significance of cats in literature throughout the years? Ever wanted to explore your dog’s cognitive remarkability? Who is Reckless the Pitbull? If any of these thoughts have ever crossed your mind, then I suggest you read on to have a few of these questions answered, among others as well….
Cats In Literature
Cats have held a significant place in art and literature for centuries, symbolizing various qualities and concepts across different cultures. In ancient Egypt, cats were revered and associated with the goddess Bastet, representing protection, fertility, and motherhood. Their graceful demeanor and independent nature made them a symbol of grace and elegance.
In medieval Europe, cats were often depicted as mysterious and magical creatures, associated with witches and the supernatural. This portrayal reflected the fear and superstition surrounding cats during that time, as they were often seen as companions of witches or even witches themselves in disguise. In Japanese culture, the Maneki-neko or "beckoning cat" is a common symbol of good luck and prosperity, often depicted with a raised paw inviting wealth and fortune.
In literature, cats have been portrayed in various roles, from cunning and enigmatic characters to loyal companions and protectors. In T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats," cats are anthropomorphized and given distinct personalities, reflecting human traits and behaviors. Overall, cats in art and literature symbolize a range of qualities, including independence, mystery, intuition, and resilience. Their presence adds depth and symbolism to artistic and literary works, enriching the narratives and themes they represent.
Canine Curiosities
Dogs' ingenious cleverness has evolved over millennia through their close relationship with humans. Selective breeding for specific traits, such as intelligence and trainability, has played a significant role in shaping their cognitive abilities. Additionally, dogs' social nature and ability to communicate with humans have further facilitated their development of problem-solving skills and adaptive behaviors, making them one of the most intelligent and beloved companions in the animal kingdom.
Exploring Canine Cognition
Canine cognition is a captivating field that delves into the inner workings of dogs' minds, shedding light on how they think, learn, and problem-solve. Dogs, as highly social animals, possess remarkable cognitive abilities that have evolved through their long history of domestication and interaction with humans. One fascinating aspect of canine cognition is their ability to understand human communication cues. Dogs can interpret human gestures, such as pointing, and use this information to locate hidden objects. This ability suggests a level of understanding of human intentions and the ability to infer meaning from human actions.
Dogs also exhibit impressive memory skills, particularly when it comes to associative learning. They can learn to associate specific cues or actions with rewards, leading to behaviors such as fetching a ball or performing tricks on command. Problem-solving is another area where dogs excel. Through trial and error, dogs can learn to navigate complex tasks and overcome obstacles to reach a desired outcome. This ability is not only a testament to their intelligence but also to their adaptability and resilience.
The study of canine cognition offers valuable insights into the minds of our canine companions, highlighting their cognitive abilities and the depth of their social and emotional intelligence. Understanding how dogs think, learn, and problem-solve enhances our appreciation for these remarkable animals and strengthens the bond between humans and dogs.
Pet Poem Place
Friends
By Caitlin, Age 10, Illinois USA
As I watch my dog,
she chases a rabbit.
I call her, and she comes.
She gets a drink,
cause she’s thirsty.
She runs inside and
falls asleep on the couch.
I sigh as we fall asleep together.
Therapy Animals
Therapy animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and even smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs, offer a unique form of support and companionship for people with physical and psychological ailments. One of the key reasons some animals make great therapy animals is their ability to provide unconditional love and nonjudgmental companionship. This can be incredibly comforting for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or loneliness.
Additionally, therapy animals can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure through their calming presence and the act of petting or interacting with them. The physical act of caring for an animal, such as walking a dog or grooming a cat, can also provide a sense of purpose and routine, which can be especially beneficial for those struggling with mental health issues. Furthermore, therapy animals can improve socialization skills and encourage communication in individuals with conditions such as autism or social anxiety. The presence of an animal can help break down barriers and facilitate interactions with others.
For individuals with physical ailments, therapy animals can provide motivation for physical activity and rehabilitation. For example, walking a dog can encourage exercise and improve mobility. To summarize, therapy animals offer a wide range of benefits for individuals with physical and psychological ailments, providing companionship, comfort, and a sense of well-being.
Pet Of The Week - Reckless
We bring you another long lost pet from years ago to highlight as our Pet Of The Week. Reckless is a Pitbull who lives in New Jersey, and back in 2012 in the chaotic aftermath of Superstorm Sandy that wreaked havoc on the eastern seaboard, Reckless went missing. The family home was destroyed and they were missing their beloved pet. After months of searching, piecing back together their lives after the devastation left in the wake of Sandy, the family began to lose hope of ever finding Reckless again.
More than a year after Reckless went missing, his family was ready to bring a new family member into their lives. They decided to go to a local shelter, and unbelievably, in the very first kennel inside the shelter, there was Reckless. They stated that Reckless jumped about 3 and half feet in the air when he recognized his owners faces, and needless to say, the family was ecstatic to finally be reunited with Reckless. Here’s to happy reunions of long lost pets with their owners. Well done to you, Reckless, and we here at Sustainable Tails are happy to have you as our Pet Of The Week!
Just For Fun
Well, that’s a wrap for this week. Please be sure to share this growing community of pet lovers from around the world with your friends and family. We send you an unobtrusive email once a week right to your mailbox. That’s all there is to it! We welcome any and all input from all of our subscribers. Send us topics you’d love to know more about, or just drop a line to say hello. There are exciting things coming as Sustainable Tails grows in popularity!
Sustainable Tails is dedicated to helping you create a harmonious and eco-friendly life for you and your pets. By embracing zero-waste and pet-friendly grooming products and sustainably exploring the outdoors together, you're not only enhancing the well-being of your furry companions but also contributing to a healthier planet.
Thank you for joining us on this weeks adventure. Continue to spread the word on what we are doing here, and always know your comments and participation in our community are welcomed with open paws. We’ll see you right here next week, so continue making sustainable choices and cherishing each and every day with your beloved pets!
Joshua McCarty
Founder, Sustainable Tails
P.S. Have a topic you’d like us to cover in our next newsletter? Share your ideas and questions with us. We’d love to hear from you!
P.P.S. Take a peek over at our partner website for an ever growing list of sustainable and eco-friendly pet supplies and accessories, as well as many other pet friendly products!
