What is Argos’ Memories?
As its subtitle suggests, our blog Argos’ Memories “thinks about animal minds.” Our blog explores both the inner life and outer behavior of animals.
The millennia-old squabble among scientists, theologians and philosophers about the sentience, consciousness, intelligence and emotional capacity of nonhuman animals continues into our so-called advanced, progressive century.
As animals increasingly demonstrate human-like competencies in tool development and use, complex communication networks, strong familial associations and emotional bonds, professional skeptics arbitrarily raise the bar on what it takes to be a “thinking animal.”
The Argos’ Memories blog questions our assumptions about animals. In addition, we excerpt latest research into animal awareness, present news about animal discoveries, as well as publish poems, photographs and tidbits about our interactions with our animal kin.
Why the name “Argos’ Memories”?
Our blog is dedicated to Argos (sometimes spelled “Argus”) the devoted hound in Homer’s Greek epic The Odyssey. Odysseus, the king of Ithaca and an astute dog handler, trained puppy Argos as the most skilled hunting hound in the kingdom.
Soon after, Odysseus left family, kingdom and Argos to fight the 10-year Trojan War, then became lost at sea for another decade in his attempts to return home. He was presumed dead and miscreants invaded his estate, seeking the hand of his “widow” Penelope and all the riches of the court.
An aged, infirmed Argos remained loyal to his master and lay in a dung pile by the palace entrance awaiting Odysseus’ return. After 20 years, Odysseus finally came, disguised as a begger, and only Argos recognized him despite his facade. Tail wagging, he attempted to crawl to greet him. In tears, Odysseus turned away lest his subterfuge be revealed. And Argos died, finally reunited with Odysseus after 20 years.
We named our blog Argos’ Memories as we wonder Argos’ thoughts during his long and eventual unfulfilled anticipation.
How often will the Argos’ Memories blog be published?
As often as possible, but at least monthly. Longer essays, reviews and serials may take longer to post. We will update with new and breaking animal cognition research as frequently as possible.
Who is responsible for Argos’ Memories?
Audrey Schwartz Rivers, MS serves as the Blog Editor for Argos Memories.
Audrey founded PetShare, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides animal-assisted programs and humane education for at-risk youth. Audrey has been an invited speaker about animal-human interations and animal communication research at serveral national conferences. Her writings have appeared in The New York Times, Seventeen, Change Magazine, Chronicle of the Dog and featured in two books, The Dog Trainer’s Resource and Top Tips from Top Trainers: 1001 Practical Tips and Techniques for Successful Dog Care and Training.
Audrey’s research into animal cognition and communication includes an apprenticeship with the Chimpanzee and Human Communications Institute (home of chimpanzee family that communicates via American Sign Language), studies with National Geographic research and primatologist Jill Pruetz, service as a volunteer rehabber for the Marine Mammal Stranding Network, and enrichment training with elephants and other captive animals.
Audrey holds a master’s degree in human sciences from the University of Houston (Clear Lake) and bachelor’s in journalism from Iowa State University. Prior to founding PetShare, Audrey handled strategic planning and public affairs for the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston.
She lives with canine companion Bartlet, a Belgian Malinois; Olbie, a young Collie-mix; Bodhi, a yellow-collared Macaw and American Idol wannabe as well as her human spouse John, a NASA engineer.
How can readers leave comments or contact Argos’ Memories?
To leave a comment about a post you read in Argos’ Memories, simply click on the Leave a Comment link at the end of each post — after all the category and tag information.
To contact Argos’ Memories bloggers privately go to the Contact tab at the top of the blog and fill out the comment form. Please include your name and email address so we can respond to you. Your information will be kept confidential and never published or sold.
Does Argos’ Memories offer RSS feeds or subscriptions?
Yes. To subscribe to our RSS feed, simply go to the upper right hand portion of the blog and click on the RSS button for “Posts,” “ Comments” or both. You can also sign up for e-mail alerts when we post new material.
We hope you enjoy Argos’ Memories. Please return often and feel free to be part of the discussion. We welcome you ideas, comments, feedbacks and viewpoints.
Audrey Schwartz Rivers. MS
Blog Editor
Argos’ Memories
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