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2. Why do some people think that keeping pets is good for children?
It can be beneficial for children to have a pet because the animal can become a good
companion. In China, with the one-child policy, many children often feel lonely. The pet can make
them smile, and give them the impression that they are not on their own. In addition, some parents
believe that having a pet can give children a sense of responsibility. The kids must walk the dog,
clean it, and feed it. It could be a good chance for children to learn how to take care of weaker and
younger creatures. I think that children with pets might learn how to be more considerate and
thoughtful.
3. Should there be laws to protect domesticated animals?
Yes, I think there should be. Animals should not be mistreated. People should consider
animals as their friends. They are almost defenseless against us, so we should show our humanity
by protecting both wild and domesticated animals. In September 2009, legislation was drafted in
my country to prevent deliberate (= intentional) cruelty to animals at home, on farms and in
laboratories.
4. What characteristics are associated with particular animals in your culture?
Well, that's interesting because I was talking to my foreign teacher at school the other day
about this topic, and we realized that animals represent different characteristics in Chinese and
Western cultures. For example, I found out that Westerners believe that monkeys are stupid, while
in China we consider monkeys to be smart animals. I guess that they are clever animals, but more
stupid than humans in many situations. In English, pigs are dirty, and in Chinese pigs are lazy and
stupid. Otherwise, in China, we believe that dragons represent nobility and wisdom, pandas are
kind, dogs are loyal, snakes are untrustworthy, and cows and buffalos are hard-working (horses are
in Western minds).
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