9 Life Lessons from Remarkable Human and Animal Relationships
Animals offer meaningful life lessons and companionship. The question is, what did these famous people, including Siegfried and Roy, learn from their companions? Through important relationships, like Koko the Gorilla and Francine Patterson or Ivan Pavlov and his dog, we know that it’s possible to gain the trust of animals.
By far the most significant insight came from Ivan Pavlov who studied his dog’s responses to a bell. This research founded the basis of “classical conditioning.” Advertisers use this concept to develop effective marketing campaigns, and Pavlov’s studies continue to stay relevant in today’s tech-focused world.
Siegfried and Roy developed the trust of big cats by sleeping with the animals for the first year of life. Patterson had a 30-year relationship with Koko the Gorilla which gave us a wealth of information.
Through studying animals, we find many lessons to apply to everyday life. Animals help humans develop empathy, practice mindfulness, and form special bonds. Not only that, but we are reminded that it’s healthy to have social connections. Some pets may even help you make friends with other pet owners, say at the dog park.
If you own an animal or consider yourself an animal lover, then I’m sure you relate. Animals are intelligent creatures that sense the love and compassion from their companions, which makes their relationship a beautiful thing. By Kaylee