In today's world there are many conflicting views and debates surrounding the many issues we face. At times, the arguments and conversations are repetitive, aggressive and confusing. With all the recent headlines and stories surfacing, I was overwhelmed and truly did not know what to think. As an English major, I decided to put everything I was hearing into a metaphorical situation to clear it up in my head. I looked at the world though the eyes of my dog. Yes, I know it is odd, but it surprisingly helped a lot, so I thought I would share Archie's views with all of you.

So, Archie, first off I want to address the police brutality against minorities. How would the dog world deal with this?

Well, the dog world is pretty straightforward when it comes to justice. We may bark a lot, but we only bite when necessary. I would never attack another dog if they were doing their own thing and were not bothering me in any way. Also I do not act differently towards another beagle, like me, than I do towards a poodle. I only see black and white, anyway; there are no colors in my vision. Humans are the ones who feel the need to label everything and categorize us by breed. A dog is a dog no matter what you want to call them, and they are all treated as equals. If we are being honest, all their butts smell the same to me.

To discuss the issue of war and terrorism, let's say that the neighbor's dog decides to wander over to our yard and dig up all the grass?

First off, I would pray that Jim [Archie's owner] would not think it was me or else I would be in big trouble. Intimidation and communication with dogs is definitely the way to go, at first. You know, bark a little, keep your guard up and pee a little extra on the yard so they know it is yours.

"Build a wall." If there were stray dogs out and about with no one to claim them, would you be comfortable with Jim building a fence around our house to keep them out?

I thought the fence was to keep me in? I would live a pretty lonely life if no other dogs were out and about for me to meet. Also, maybe they are wandering around like that in the hopes that they will find a home. A fence would not allow for the chance to live the life they strive for.

What if you had just dug up all the bones you could ever imagine and it took you a long time to find them all, but Val [my mom] took them from you to give to another dog who does not have any?

No way! I would be upset. I usually get five naps in every day, and I would not skip that precious ritual just to give it [the bones] all away. It is one thing if we were digging together and they did not get as many as me. I would not care if I gave up a couple and taught them the skills to get more. But in the dog eat dog world, you eventually have to work for what you want if you are able to.

Now, Archie, I know you hate going to the vet, but imagine if you were not able to go to the vet because Jim could not afford it?

As much as I do hate the vet, I probably would not be here if it was not for veterinarians. I do not think that any dog should fail to receive healthcare, especially if they are an 'accidental' chocolate eater like me!

Disclaimer: The interview above never actually occurred, and those are not the exact words of Archie.