Lola: Or, The Thought and Speech of Animals

A work of animal psychology and education written in the early 20th century. This book explores the cognitive abilities of animals, particularly focusing on a trained Airedale terrier named Lola, who is capable of complex arithmetic and spelling. The narrative delves into the relationships between humans and their pets, examining how dogs like Lola can learn and communicate in ways that imply a degree of thought and understanding.'' ''The opening of the book introduces the reader to the background of the investigations into animal intelligence, specifically referencing previous experiments with other animals like the horses of Wilhelm von Osten. It sets the stage for the author's own experiences with Lola, who is presented as a descendant of a famous ''thinking'' dog named Rolf. Initial discussions include the significance of these studies for understanding the sensibility of higher animals and hint at Kindermann's hopes for the insights that Lola may provide through her unique abilities. Overall, the beginning establishes a blend of scientific inquiry and fondness for animal companions, inviting further exploration of Lola's capabilities and the broader implications for our understanding of animals.''