In a recent survey, 70% of respondents identified their family pet as “a member of the family.” Even as these animals are revered as loved ones, the meat, fish, and dairy industries continue to thrive. Speaking to this disparity, Dog by the Cradle, the Serpent Beneath addresses this fascinating subject. Using interviews with philosophers, scientists, farmers, poets, and commentators, Ritter explores our complicated – and often inconsistent – relationship to the animal world.