Andrew, I wouldn't want to "confront" any wild animals either, but I do like to observe the way they live in the wild. What they do to survive is so specific, and the interactions between those of the same specie, are almost mystifying. How different the species are, and how much they can be alike, is a wonder of nature.
I find peace, and calm, in the forest, desert, and mountains, that washes away the dirt of urban living. I go to zoos to see the wild animals that are impossible to see in America any other way.
Mr.B sounds like a perfect dog for suburban living. How the Basenjis adapted by losing their ability to bark in order to survive is another example of the adaptation of the species to make the necessary changes to help them exist in their environment.
I have had several dogs, and bonded with all of them well, but my favorite was a Norwegian Elkhound, that rarely barked, and they will defend the person they choose as a partner, with a vengeance. Don't have room for a large dog now, and will not force one to adapt to house living without out door space to do what they are accustomed to do. I never really liked house cats, but about a year ago, a feral female cat had a litter of three in our back yard. One disappeared without a trace. Then one of the two left, decided to adopt me, and is now a house cat that is enjoying her life of Riley. The third opted to stay outside, but comes around to visit regularly. |
