NBC Nightly News included a story on its December 12th broadcast about the phenomenon of the Shiba Inu Puppy Cam. Over 18 million people, spending the equivalent of 790 years worth of time, have tuned in to watch a bin filled with the puppies. The pooches are mostly sleeping. Sometimes, though, they play together.
Newscaster Brian Williams closed the segment by saying that he has no idea what this says about our society.
Of course, we got a good laugh out of that statement because after writing over ten books about animals, including two dog books, we have our own theories regarding what the bliss and joy of watching puppies says about society.
In our opinion it says that when you're troubled, bored, stressed, or in need of companionship, there is absolutely nothing as satisfying as taking on the puppy consciousness, even if it's only vicariously.
Studies show the health benefits of having pets in your life -- lower blood pressure, less anxiety, decrease in depression and loneliness -- to name a few. Probably watching the puppies frolic or snooze does all those things for people.
This is an overwrought world where we often forget to take care of our emotional and spiritual needs while we run from one item on our to-do list to another. A carefree, playful puppy is just what the doctor/health practitioner ordered.
What do you think? How would you answer Brian's question about what the popular puppy cam says about our society?
NBC Nightly News report on Shiba Inu Puppy Cam: http://is.gd/bvl8
Shiba Inu Puppy Cam: http://is.gd/4FnB
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Hi Allen and Linda,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this. I got a chuckle out of your chuckle, it is funny. Just the question itself is funny. "What does this say about our society?"
We love puppies, kittens, babies, polar bear cubs even. They make us feel good and comforted. It's peaceful, relaxing, and reassuring to watch them sleep. They offer the promise of something more. The hope the beginning of a life brings.
Linda I look forward to touching base on this when we speak this Monday.
Christine