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