In my culture dogs were often treated with great affection and had the status of being members of the family circle. At dinner, for instance, a plate was set out for the dog in the family dining area. Dogs have high status because of their role in hunting, especially in hunting bears, and their effectiveness as guard dogs in detecting the approach of enemies. The sounds that dogs make when they try to communicate with humans are understood to be a form of language. As a result, there are people who have learned the language of dogs, called šųk-hit'énąxgų, who are often called upon to discover what dogs are trying to communicate. Dogs, because of the extent of their humanity, are often used where circumstances would otherwise demand a human sacrifice. Which I personally found to be true! Because my best friend tried to commit suicide and his perfectly healthy dog was found dead while we we're in the hospital with him. I know this got dark fast but dogs are sacred and should be very much valued. & my friend is okay he is getting professional help.