Had the opportunity last weekend to spend some time with my cousin, who I've only seen on odd holidays most of our lives. Now that our families have shrunk we've reached out to try to keep closer contact.
Spent a couple hours walking the beach with her at her place on Hood Canal. Lovely spot.
At one point another owner and his dog were coming up the beach, and the dog ran to greet us. I got down on my knees and gave him a good head rub, but my cousin shied away. "I don't really like dogs," she confessed. I never knew this about her.
Mrs NoCo and I love dogs -- it was our love of dogs that brought us together. Introducing our dogs to each other, to see if they got along, became the turning point in our relationship. (They loved each other instantly.)
My sister is afraid of dogs, all dogs big or small, because 60 years ago she was chased by one (who probably only wanted to play). It's amusing watching a grown adult absolutely terrified of a clueless dog. She's never gotten over it, never even tried.
I think respect for other species is absolutely critical to a healthy relationship to the planet. I don't trust people who don't like pets. People who only want human company are too provincial, too cloistered, and can convince themselves that people are more important than they are. I have heard some Islamic societies forbid pets. That's horrible.
My dog and cat are a huge part of my life. I can't imagine living without a pet of some kind -- I've had one or the other or more often both all my life.
Not so fond of reptiles or birds. They don't seem very affectionate.
My other cousin is absolutely gaga over her horse. I respect that.
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