Carrie, you have an interesting point about language. When I read your replies about dog behavior, I think of your writing the way I would the writing of a medical professional about humans. Some of what they say doesn't sound "nice", in fact it can sound downright mean or unfeeling. But it is a style, not a reflection of the compassion or feelings of the writer.

I once saw my medical chart from a physical exam. The summary was "obese middle-aged female with multiple symptoms related to excess weight". Wow, that sure was a slap in the face... But I had to admit it was true. It was the distilled version of my physical state, not a judgement of ME!

I would have preferred something like "Curvaceous woman that loves good food" which says just about the same thing!

So, Carrie, I hope you will continue giving us the benefit of your knowledge, and I, for one, will try not to expect sugar coating. Our pets may be our babies, but we should try to understand their needs and their makeup in a realistic light. Not always pretty, but very often helpful!

[ August 24, 2001: Message edited by: TheAntiPam ]