Through her analysis of the studies of the Labrador and its tendency for large appetites, “evolutionary biologist and BBC Science Writer” (Hamilton) Dr. Charlotte Brassey argues in “Tackling the Canine …show more content…
Although the article is presented as strictly scientific, Brassey uses phrases such as “greedy mutation” and “food obsession” to make the audience feel as if Labradors can’t help that they’re obese. Analyzing the topic, the word “obesity” tends to have a negative connotation, so its use serves as an unwanted consequence in relation to any topic. On the other hand, Labradors are referred as “our most popular canine companion” in the article. Dog lovers will experience negative feelings of sadness to see obesity occurring in a beloved animal and will want to learn about the efforts to prevent obesity addressed in this article. The use of this device creates an audience that is willing to read this article in order to take action in a struggle between a negative consequence and a lovable animal. Therefore, the style of wording used by Brassey allows a greater emotional impact on her …show more content…
Currently, my family owns two Weimaraners which are naturally slim dogs as part of their breed. However, the selective breeding to ensure high trainability could cause the “food obsession” mutation in Labradors to occur in other dog breeds as well. My heart would be broken, if more of my dogs were to suffer from obesity and its effects. Therefore, I feel concerned that studies on other dog breeds are not mentioned within the article. The absence of this information also creates confusion as I am unsure if genetics are responsible for obesity in all dogs or just the Labrador breed. Brassey creates a strong case for Labradors, but her lack of coverage on other breeds weakens her main claim to her audience.
Although Brassey maintains her informative purpose, she establishes a relatable impression for her audience through her appeal to ethos and her strong use of diction. Her written piece attests on dog owner’s behalf and their involvement in the obesity epidemic. Contrary to the popular belief about obesity, Brassey converts the cause of obesity from the accountability of dog owners to the nature of the dog itself. Leading the audience to a conclusion that actions of bad owners does not translate to fat