People may be more likely to empathize with an injured dog than an adult human, according to research exploring how people respond to victims of violence. A study published in the journal Society & Animals found that participants reported similar levels of distress for puppies, adult dogs and human infants, while showing less empathy toward an injured adult human. The researchers suggested that people may view dogs as family members and feel greater empathy toward victims they perceive as vulnerable or unable to protect themselves. #viral #dog #pets #science #study