Chapter 7: Fufi

A belief that black cats are associated with witchcraft, considered harmful and dangerous in some cultures.

A type of cultural prejudice that shapes how people view and interact with certain animals.

The reaction of a security guard who killed a cat in a soccer stadium, highlighting a cultural belief.

A cultural perception about the association of cats with witchcraft, leading to negative reactions.

The reaction of white people to the security guard's actions, contrasting with the black community's perception.

The mother's defiance of cultural norms by owning black cats, challenging societal expectations.

The perceived risk of owning black cats in a black neighborhood, based on the association with witchcraft.

The author's experience of living in a mixed-race neighborhood, where acceptance of cats was more common.

The author's perception of cats as aloof and not displaying affection, leading to a lack of emotional attachment.

The author's observation that white people often view dogs as family members, while black people tend to use them for protection.

Naming dogs based on their physical traits, often leading to common names like 'Tiger', 'Danger', and 'Spotty'.

A mix-breed dog, resulting from the mating of a Maltese poodle and a bull terrier.

The author's description of the two dogs as siblings who displayed both affection and aggression towards each other, highlighting their complex relationship.

The author's perception of one dog as intelligent and the other as lacking intelligence, reflecting their individual personalities.

The author's observation of a specific trait, referencing the appearance of a dog with a pink nose.

A dog's ability to understand and respond to its owner's commands, even if it cannot hear.

The act of jumping over a high obstacle like a fence or wall.

A person's emotional connection to their pet, often described as love and companionship.

A dog that is very good at performing tricks and activities, often showcasing impressive skills.

To train a dog to behave in a certain way, especially by teaching it to use the toilet in a designated area.

A dog's tendency to act mischievously or playfully, often breaking rules or engaging in adventurous behavior.

The act of leaving a place, usually for work or school.

A dog's behavior of wandering around a neighborhood, often exploring new places and interacting with the environment.

The realization that one does not own the things they love, even if they are pets. This principle is illustrated by the author's personal experience with his dog, Fufi, who had a separate life outside of their home.

The experience of emotional heartbreak, often related to feelings of betrayal and abandonment. This can occur in personal relationships, including those with pets.

The tendency for people to project human emotions and intentions onto animals, specifically pets. This can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of betrayal.

The ability to understand and accept that pets, especially dogs, have their own lives and needs beyond their relationship with their owners. This involves recognizing that they may engage in activities or have attachments outside of the home.

The process of learning and growing through personal experiences, especially those that involve emotional hardship. This can lead to self-awareness and a broader understanding of life and relationships.

A dog's inability to hear. This can make it difficult for the owner to communicate with the dog and for the dog to understand commands.

Stealing someone else's pet, taking it without permission, and keeping it.

A situation where two people disagree about ownership of a dog, leading to a potential argument or conflict.

A method used to identify a dog, with records from a veterinarian, confirming its owner.

The act of paying someone to return a stolen dog or resolve a dispute.

A strong feeling of sadness and distress caused by the loss of a loved one, particularly a pet.

The act of searching for a lost or stolen pet, often involving asking neighbors for help.