Dr. Phil Zeltzman’s Blog

Have you seen the blockbuster movie The Odyssey by Christopher Nolan?

Or do you remember the story of Odysseus’ dog Argos, in the book by Homer?

The recognition of Odysseus by his dog, Argos, is one of the most poignant and heartbreaking moments in The Odyssey.

Here’s a breakdown of the scene and its significance:

The Scene Between Odysseus and Argos

After 20 years of absence, 10 years fighting in the Trojan War, and another 10 years wandering, Odysseus finally returns to Ithaca.

He arrives disguised as an old beggar to assess the situation in his palace.

He needs to deal with multiple arrogant suitors, who have been preying on his household and trying to force his wife, Penelope, to marry one of them.

As Odysseus, still in his beggar’s disguise, approaches his own palace, he spots an old dog lying neglected on a heap of dung outside the gates.

This dog is Argos.

The Back Story of Argos

Argos was a hunting dog, bred and trained by Odysseus himself before he left for Troy.

In his prime, Argos was a magnificent and powerful dog, renowned for his tracking abilities. 

But now, 20 years later, he is old, infirm, covered in fleas, and abandoned.

In fact, he is a sad visual representation of the neglect and decay that has affected Odysseus’ home in his absence.

The Emotional Meeting With Argos

Despite his decrepit condition, as soon as Argos senses Odysseus’ presence, he immediately recognizes his master.

He lifts his head, pricks up his ears, and wags his tail.

But he is too weak and old to get up and physically greet Odysseus.

Odysseus sees Argos and is deeply moved.

He has to turn his head away and wipe a tear from his eye, careful not to reveal his true identity. 

He secretly acknowledges his faithful dog, a silent and tragic reunion.

Tragically, having seen his master one last time and fulfilled his lifelong wait, Argos dies immediately after this brief, unspoken recognition.

Argos’ Unwavering Loyalty

Argos symbolizes ultimate, unconditional loyalty.

He is the only character in the entire story who recognizes Odysseus instantly, without any divine intervention or outward sign from Odysseus himself.

This highlights a deep, primal bond that transcends physical disguise and the passage of time.

You may have seen very emotional videos of dogs becoming insanely happy after recognizing their owner coming back home after being deployed.

Emotional Restraint and Sacrifice

Odysseus’s inability to openly greet and comfort his dog is incredibly poignant.

He has to prioritize his ultimate mission: reclaiming his home and protecting his family, even at the cost of a heartfelt reunion with his most faithful companion.

His hidden tear underscores the immense emotional burden he carries.

A Fulfilled Purpose and Peaceful Death

Argos’ immediate death after recognizing Odysseus suggests that his sole purpose for living for the past 20 years was to witness his master’s return.

Once that purpose is fulfilled, he can finally rest.

It’s a bittersweet ending, emphasizing the profound impact Odysseus had on his dog and the depth of Argos’ devotion.

It is believed that The Odyssey was written in the 8th century BC.

Centuries later, the scene with Argos is a powerful and enduring reminder of the bond between humans and animals, and a deeply moving moment in one of the greatest stories ever told.

This is not a story about a patient, or a miraculous surgery, but it’s a great reminder of why we do what we do: for the love of animals, and to protect the bond they share with their owners.

If you would like to learn how we can help your pet with safe surgery and anesthesia, please contact us through www.LRVSS.com 

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Phil Zeltzman, DVM, DACVS, CVJ, Fear Free Certified

Pete Baia, DVM, MS, DACVS

www.LRVSS.com