Why is it that a dog's menstruation made her lighthearted and gay, while her own menstruation made her squeamish? The answer seems simple to me: dogs were never expelled from Paradise. Karenin knew nothing about the duality of body and soul and had no concept of disgust. That is why Tereza felt so free and easy with him. {And that is why it is so dangerous to turn an animal into a machina animata, a cow into an automaton for the production of milk. By so doing, man cuts the thread binding him to Paradise and has nothing left to hold or comfort him on his flight through the emptiness of time.}
The text explores the contrast between a dog's perception of menstruation and that of a human, highlighting the innocence and freedom of animals compared to human experiences. The author suggests that dogs exist in a state of blissful ignorance, untroubled by concepts of disgust or duality. This innocence allows for a genuine connection, as exemplified in the relationship between Tereza and her dog, Karenin.
Furthermore, the passage critiques the mechanization of animals, arguing that reducing them to mere production units severs the deep, intrinsic bond between humans and the pure nature of animals. This disconnection leads to a loss of comfort and meaning, leaving humans adrift in a senseless existence. By reflecting on this relationship, the narrative emphasizes the importance of preserving the essence of both animals and humanity to avoid losing touch with a more profound spiritual realm.
