Animals in translation : using the mysteries of autism to decode animal behavior

Argues that language is not a requirement for consciousness, and that animals do have consciousness. Applies the autism theory of "hyper-specificity" to animals, showing that animals and autistic people are so sensitive to detail that they "can't see the forest for the trees". Explores the "interpreter" in the normal human brain that filters out detail, leaving people blind to much of the reality that surrounds them - a reality animals and autistic people see. Compares animals to autistic savants, declaring that animals may in fact be autistic savants, with special forms of genius that normal people do not possess and sometimes cannot even see. Examines how humans and animals use their emotions to think, to decide, and even to predict the future. Maintains that the single worst thing you can do to an animal is to make it feel afraid. Includes a Behavior and Training Troubleshooting Guide.