The problem is that some people believe that animals think and reason like humans. I once had a discussion with my hair dresser where I told her that I was getting my new kittens spayed and neutered. She asked me "Why are you doing that?" I told her because I did not want kittens. She then said "Well they wouldn't would they?" I had to explain to her that dumb animals do not understand familial relationships. It was news to her.
I guess being raised on an Iowa farm, I had this knowledge from an early age. Don't ever remember thinking anything different.
Too many Disney movies.
Sounds like someone who should be on Obama's financial planning committee.