Considerations on the Death of a Dog

“The great problems are always framed in relation to human life, always separated — at least from us — from animal life. Yet, animals are often treated with the same remedies given to humans. And they have the same feelings. Taïaut was jealous of the affection we showered upon him. Whenever a visitor entered, he would sit beside us to attract attention, be petted, or simply hear himself discussed. He grew resentful when scolded and would refuse to lick your hand; he would sulk and never take the first steps to “patch things up.” And who would dare maintain that a dog’s gaze didn’t express sentiments that we experience as well. As well? No. Less well, for in all our sentiments there is a complexity that prevents us from knowing, as they do, the absolute of pleasure and pain.”