Additionally , the bonds between human and dog were found closely similar to those of mother and child . Similar to above , oxytocin plays a role in the bonding and nurturing of mother and child and is also closely related to this gazing of the eyes . MacLean and Hare mention in their article that both dogs and children interpret eye contact as communication and dogs exhibit similar cognitive abilities of that of children . It was also mentioned that if experiments were done with oxytocin in children and parents , the findings would be almost parallel to that of a dog and master . Due to these findings , it is easy to understand why relationships with dogs and humans are closely intertwined with the love for family . Additionally , many people consider their dog a family member which also proves that the love is reciprocated .
Overall , love is extremely powerful and can go beyond one species . The love for a dog is unexplainabole and related to the love for friends and family , Philia . Love may have evolved through the evolutionary and domestication process , however , it is important when considering if all animals can love . If a dog can love , I ’ m sure that many others love too . Not all animals may have the same bond of that of dog and humans , however , love for one ’ s species is probably prevalent .
Importance to Me
The inspiration for my paper was my dogs and the connection I have with each one of them . I have 3 dogs and a cat at home as of now , however , over the summer I lost my one best-friend , Morgan . She was a lab-pointer mix and I had her for almost 6 years . She had been my shoulder to lean on and also an emotional support dog for me . Morgan had also been diagnosed with separation anxiety about 2 years into having her , which created this bond between us that is unexplainable . Her loss was devastating to me , and this paper about love had me curious to whether or not others feel this unexplainable love that dogs bring . This love for animals is also one reason I want to become a veterinarian and with this being said , I know my dog will be with me every step of the way .
This is an image of my dog , and the way she looks at me further proves that she loved every moment she had with me .
36