A recent video of a dog limping next to his owner, Russell Jones, has gone viral for all the right reasons. The long-legged lurcher Bill was seen hobbling alongside Jones, whose leg was in a plaster cast.
While we could be mistaken in thinking that both had been injured, the faithful hound was actually imitating his owner. After Jones revealed that he’d spent £300 on having Bill checked out at the vet, the results showed there was indeed nothing wrong with the dog — he was merely showing empathy with his owner.
Scientists at the University of Vienna have found evidence to suggest that dogs copy their owners in what is called “automatic imitation.” According to the report in the Daily Mail, scientists believe this is from being domesticated over the years, and the process of developmental training.
However, anybody who is fortunate enough to own a dog will know that the real cause of this imitation can be put down to good old-fashioned love — a loyal dog showing his genuine concern for and bond with his owner in the best way he can. And despite Jones’ financial loss, he no doubt feels truly blessed in the way his dog demonstrated his love.
Happily, Bill has since been seen running around on all fours enjoying life and feeling loved.
By the way, if you have a dog, or are about to welcome one into your home, you might want to take a look at these spiritually meaningful names for a little inspiration …
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8 Inspiring spiritual names for your family dog
