The Cats of Kefalonia
An interesting cultural difference between America and Greece is that here in Greece many animals like cats and dogs that would normally only be seen inside as house pets in America, can be found freely roaming around the streets. I believe that in America, if the stray pet population got much larger, people would have a problem with this issue ethically, and would opt to make laws that would try to contain the animals, whether that be through animal shelters or adoption or bringing them to pounds.
I believe the primary reason for this cultural difference lies in the fact that Greek people view stray cats and dogs as a natural cohabitant in most Greek communities. In America, people tend to either view strays more as pests or perhaps don't feel that stray animals are capable of taking care of themselves these days in the wild. Many of the Greek cats tend to claim a house as their territory and the house owners sometimes provide the cats with food and water. Additionally, the warm, temperate climate is a great environment for stray animals, as it doesn't reach dangerously cold temperatures that could harm the animals.
This relationship between the Greeks and their stray animals seems to be working out quite well for both parties. I often see people here petting and playing with strays, the every stray I've encountered has been far from aggressive- most are actually quite sweet and I'm having a hard time not packing a few kitties in my carry-on to take back home!
I believe the primary reason for this cultural difference lies in the fact that Greek people view stray cats and dogs as a natural cohabitant in most Greek communities. In America, people tend to either view strays more as pests or perhaps don't feel that stray animals are capable of taking care of themselves these days in the wild. Many of the Greek cats tend to claim a house as their territory and the house owners sometimes provide the cats with food and water. Additionally, the warm, temperate climate is a great environment for stray animals, as it doesn't reach dangerously cold temperatures that could harm the animals.
This relationship between the Greeks and their stray animals seems to be working out quite well for both parties. I often see people here petting and playing with strays, the every stray I've encountered has been far from aggressive- most are actually quite sweet and I'm having a hard time not packing a few kitties in my carry-on to take back home!
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