On Aug 1, 2014, at 12:56 PM, Dave Mcneely <mcneely4@COX.NET> wrote:
> ---- Roy Nicholl <RNicholl@NBNet.nb.ca> wrote:
>> While dogs are perceptive, whether they are sentient is still a subject of philosophical debate.
> 
> Not with most dog owners I know.  mcneely
> 
As a guide dog handler for almost 20 years I'd have to say my dogs have acted with a great ability to think independently, focus on my safety and put my needs ahead of theirs.  Come to think of it that seems like more human behavior then many humans.  Seriously, to keep me safe these dogs need to actually think through a situation and in some situations, even ignore my commands to keep us save!  anyone want to try a busy subway platform with their eyes shut? and rely on a dog to safely navigate!  

        Ok, and I admit I sometimes talk to my van, but then again I talk to my computer as well.  then again, as I'm blind, in my case the computer does talk back, however, I'm sure it is not sentient, yet!
I do hope some day to talk to my vanagon.  If the Google car technology can be added to it I'd love to just say take me to West River Westies and let it take me there!  It would not be sentient, but it would be amazing!

Eric Caron 
85 GL Auto Westfalia 
Still without a permanent name