DOG OR CAT?

It is a fairly well accepted fact that we anthropomorphize our pets far too often.  So, as a silly reversal of roles, how would you characterize yourself?  Cat or dog?  Both animals have admirable qualities, so to claim to be one or the other will not denigrate you.

Either specie of course has its moments of both acrimony and devotion just as we humans do.  The dog of course, at his best is described ad infinitum as loyal, trustworthy, helpful, obedient, etc., while the cat fairly or unfairly, takes the rap for being independent, arrogant, sneaky, and choosy, these extremes of behavior  are not necessarily bad qualities.

The dog can be taught to bring you your slippers, paper, or a toy.  With some effort on your part he can be taught to ring a bell to exit the house, or retreive the mail, or any number of simple chores and tricks.  The cat, on the other hand chooses not to do any of the above.

Does this show a more advanced brain power, or a perversity of character?  The cat is obviously exercising his power of choice.

If you have chosen to emulate the dog, does this mean that you have no mind of your own, only languishing until your orders come through?  If you have chosen to be the cat, this does not unquestionably categarize you as  an independent thinker.  There are no ordinary cats or dogs.  Ask anyone who lives with either.

If I were a cat, I would choose to be Saki’s cat Tobermory, blatently blowing the whistle on  all the rule-breakers;  and delightedly gloating at the reactions of all the people I have offended.   Or I would be like Judge Judy, who invariably pinions the wrongdoers with a few sharp insights.  My attitude would be “if you get yourself into trouble, you have to get yourself out”.

On the other hand, if I were a dog, I would be a guide dog for the blind, who, like Palinurus, would guide and protect those in my charge.

So, take your choice—–dog or cat??