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Topic: Appearances

In this week's dialogue, James, Alexia, and Sundance will discuss how dogs and humans share physical facial features. Sundance will ask a series of relevant questions, and James and Alexia will provide answers.

Opie

Sundance: Why are humans fixated on physical features, especially facial ones? Dogs do not care what they look like in the morning or just before they go out. You will never hear me say, "I need to put on some makeup."  We remain the same throughout: always constant droopy eyes, running nose, drooling flews, and hot steaming breath.


James: So true. Humans are caught up and fixated with beauty. They spend billions of dollars on artificial fragrances and powders to make themselves glow. It is idealistic for humans to have everything around them be pretty and beautiful. Humans are the only species to pass complete judgement on someone or something based solely on beauty. It's not entirely their fault, most of it is cultural. Humans are taught at a young age what is pretty and what is ugly. You and I both know, Mother Nature does not create ugly. She creates life and appreciates true form. 

Apollo

Sundance: My newest friend Apollo has no problem with his beauty. He could care less. All he wants in life is a good shake and a mouthful of sticks, not lipstick.


James: Once again, you are so correct. Apollo and you share a common handsome trait. Your facial features are round and puppy-like. Humans love all things infant-like, perhaps because they know life has not blemished their spirit and soul yet with judgment.


Sundance: So there is an ideal look?


James: Well, each species prefers certain traits that signify health and strength. Most animals will take into account whether a potential mate looks strong and healthy, with a lot of potential. People are also attracted to animals that look strong and healthy. And most animals have a tendency to soften towards the infantile. 

Cock

Sundance: I saw a cock once at Avila Valley Barn. That guy thought he was the prettiest thing in the petting zoo. 


James: While many birds do strut and preen, the most fun animals, dogs, are carefree about their appearances. A healthy animal with a balanced mind and plenty of love and socialization feels so good about himself that his tail will be confident and his head held high, like some of the horses you've met, as well as you, Vixen, Opie and Apollo. 

Vixen

Sundance: But I've heard people complain about other people being confident. Why?


James: Imbalanced people get jealous of other people, and are afraid when one might be stronger or healthier than them. But balanced people are attracted to other confident, balanced people. Everyone should stand head high, chest proud, confident walk, with a smile and no fear. Those people are fun, and make the world a better place.


Sundance: I do that. I must say, I feel healthy and loved, and I carry myself with pride. And because of my confidence, I make everyone around me feel happier! I love life!

Sundance