Persuasive Cats and Dogs essay dissection

“Why Dogs Are the Cat’s Pajamas” – Dissection of a Persuasive Essay
Implicit thesis statement: Dogs are superior to cats.
Allusion: “it barks”
Argument #1: Dogs are more friendly animals than cats.
Argument #2: Dogs are more giving creatures than cats.
Counter-Argument: Cats are more self-reliant than dogs.
Refutation: Whole point of having a pet is to spend time with it and have a mutually dependent relationship.
Counter-Argument: Cats are self-cleaning
Refutation: (humour – “ovens are self-cleaning”)  Rewarding to care for dogs (ie: baths).
Argument #3: Dogs have a purpose/use  they can be trained.
Counter-Argument: Cats are useful  they catch mice.
Refutation: They don’t catch mice on purpose  it’s their killer instinct (negative trait).
Counter-Argument: Cats are smarter than dogs. (examples: villains etc.)  Pain them as sinister, calculating, evil creatures
Refutation: Dogs are too lovable – it’s not in their genetic make-up to be so conniving.
Argument #4: There is more variety (sizes, shapes, colors) when it comes to dogs.
Argument #5: Dogs are unselfish and brave.
Ends with an anecdote and an emotional appeal to further convince/persuade the reader.