Contracts are agreements between rational beings i.e. humans. Disillusionment is unpleasant but.... horses don't write and don't sign contracts and Mister Ed couldn't really talk.
While dogs, horses, and other mammals have species-specific social skills which we tune into, being also socially conscious, they're not humans in a state of arrested development. They can make great pets and even be a great emotional comfort, but if you regard an animal as your best friend, woe unto you.
Excellent points. Thank you.
I disagree... when you train an animal, there is a contract between you, something expected in return for behaviors, that's why training works. There is trust. If you punish unfairly or act with inconsistency, training fails. I take that trust with all the honesty it is offered, and I honor it.
I think we are better for treating trained companion animals with more respect than wild prey or cattle. If you don't agree, that doesn't make me doubt my view at all. I still like my way better than yours.