There is no finer sight for animal lovers than an alert - eyed, lustrous - coated dog racing across a field to retrieve a stick, or a glossy cat playing tiger in the long grass.
We rejoice in their health and vigor, and wish for them a long, disease - free and contented life. Our domestic animals give us pleasure and companionship, and in turn they benefit from our care and protection.
But we have to remember that by keeping them as pets we have made them entirely dependent on us: their well-being is in our hands.
In the wild, their ancestors roamed free and sought nourishment suited to their needs. Although they were subject to other kinds of dangers, they were seldom afflicted with disease. they were made robust by fresh air, exercise and natural foods.
