The philosopher Thomas Aquinas taught that animals were not direct objects of moral concern but presciently forbade cruelty to them. Aquinas warned that those cruel to animals would inexorably “graduate” to people, an insight bolstered by decades of research. He was the spiritual founder of the animal rights movement but would have been horrified at how cruel it has become to humans in the name of loving animals. How ironic.

I often think of Aquinas when I see Bud sleeping comfortably by the fire or in a patch of sunlight through the window. Bud also reminds us to learn mercy and hope that also graduates to people.

The vet who brought Bud back to life in Arkansas told me he nearly died from exposure to the cold. Boston Terriers have short snouts that make it hard for them to cool and warm themselves in extreme weather. Whenever the temperature gets chilly or bitter cold, we make sure Bud’s visits to our doors are very brief. If it’s freezing, we put the paper down near the bathroom so he knows to go there if he can’t go outside.

This morning, Bud was much too cold to be outside for more than a minute or two; he always found the spots where the sun was coming through or curled up near the wood stove. We have to be vigilant with Bud if he is hot on the trail of a mouse or mole or chipmunk, he would freeze to death before giving up. We have to make sure he comes inside. t lifts the heart to see him warm.