Nature: Why We Love Cats and Dogs
Posted on Feb 13, 2009
By Julia Szabo
Premieres nationally Sunday, February 15 at 8 p.m. (ET) on PBS.
Full disclosure: I'm one of the dog people interviewed for this documentary - that's me sitting on the gray sofa, wearing a bright blue sweatshirt and struggling to curb the enthusiasm of my very excited dog Lazarus. But even if "Lazzmtazz" and I had not been included, I'd still think this film is the dog's bollocks. So prepare some popcorn for yourself, pour out a serving of Pup Corn for Spot, and settle in for an enlightening hour of dogs on film.
A broad range of dog people make appearances to provide valuable insight into the dog-human bond. They range from well-known authors - including Jon Katz and Nicholas Dodman - to respected dog trainer Sarah Wilson, to anonymous yet highly-opinionated men and women of all ages who clearly requite their best friends' unconditional love. This is the day after Valentine's Day, after all, a holiday fraught for many people, especially if we're single. Not surprisingly, the topic of romance comes up. A lot.
Female viewers will swoon to see a tall, dark, handsome, musclebound - and did I mention straight! - guy with two pit bulls as he looks soulfully into the camera and announces, "Ladies, I'll do whatever you want, but dogs gotta sleep in the bed." Male viewers might roll their eyes to hear an attractive brunette gal describe her tender feelings for Zachary, her West Highland White terrier and how she broke up with her last boyfriend saying, "I wish I could love you as much as I love Zachary." Or, if they are hardcore dog lovers, they might hang out on the Upper West Side of New York City hoping to meet her and score a date.
That's how respectfully Emmy-winning director-producer Ellen Goosenberg Kent treats her subject. It's uncommon for a film about dog love to achieve intimacy without disrespect, but this one succeeds - and even goes so far as to put it out there that unattached dog lovers needn't compromise to accommodate a relationship with a fellow human.
Just be sure you have tissues on hand for the central segment, about a three-legged German Shepherd named Jerry whose owners go to great lengths to make sure the last months of his life are action-packed and full of unforgettable experiences. This couple sells their home and business to travel the country with Jerry by their side, making memories. For never making light of that kind of devotion, this documentary and the team behind it deserve high praise.
| Presence of dogs: |  |
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