A USA-ITALY Cultural Differences in perspective

While all us (Italian and foreign) dog lovers in Bell'Italia would agree with this poll - and I cite the gazillion dog lovers I meet & greet every day at the parks - Many Italians do not live in urban centers. Dogs are parked in gardens or are strictly utilitarian - for hunting, for truffles, for saving lives, for experimentation or guarding the home or farm animals.  They are loved and respected.  But generally are not allowed near kids or kitchens.  I have a few excerpts in my book, Burnt by the Tuscan Sun dedicated to the health risks of pets interacting with humans.  



One sight you rarely see on Italian portals are these...but they do exist. Just like the Loch Ness monster.

In the USA - 93% consider pets as family
In Italy...it would be interesting to see the statistic