Japanese wolf

The Japanese wolf (Canis lupus hodophilax) is an extinct subspecies of wolf that was native to Japan. It was smaller than other wolf subspecies and had a reddish-brown coat. The Japanese wolf was revered by the Japanese people as a sacred guardian and was believed to protect crops. However, the species was hunted to extinction in the early 20th century due to a combination of factors, including rabies outbreaks, modernization, and the killing of livestock. The last known Japanese wolf was killed in 1905.

Gotaro

Gotaro is a Chihuahua, a small breed of dog, owned by Dysuke, the taxi driver in the episode. Gotaro plays a significant role in Dysuke's life story, representing the deep bond between humans and their pets. The name Gotaro is a masculine Japanese name, which Dysuke chose for his Chihuahua despite its small size, highlighting the dog's strong personality. The name Gotaro is also significant because it contrasts with the dog's original name, Love, which Dysuke changed to avoid reliving the trauma of his father-in-law's abuse.

Animal

Animal is a new series from NYT Audio that explores the relationship between humans and animals. The series features journalist Sam Anderson's journeys to encounter animals around the world, aiming to appreciate them without claiming or taming them. The series explores the diverse ways in which animals impact human lives and the complex emotions that arise from these interactions.

Power spot

A power spot is a Japanese term that refers to a place that is believed to have a high concentration of spiritual energy. These places are often associated with natural features, such as mountains, forests, and waterfalls, and are believed to have healing or transformative powers. The wolf statue in the episode is described as a power spot, reflecting the reverence and respect that the Japanese people once held for wolves.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog that originated in Mexico. Chihuahuas are known for their distinctive appearance, with their small size, large heads, and pointed ears. They are also known for their strong personalities and can be quite affectionate with their owners. In the episode, Dysuke's Chihuahua, Gotaro, represents the deep bond between humans and their pets and highlights the importance of respecting animals, even those that are small and seemingly insignificant.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically through bites or scratches. Rabies is fatal if left untreated. In the episode, rabies outbreaks in the 1700s are cited as a factor that contributed to the decline of the Japanese wolf population, as wolves became more dangerous to humans.

Modernization

Modernization refers to the process of social, economic, and technological development that transforms a society from a traditional to a more modern state. In the episode, modernization in Japan during the 1800s is cited as a factor that led to the decline of the Japanese wolf population. As Japan adopted Western-style agriculture and cattle herds, wolves were seen as pests and were systematically hunted to extinction.

Extinction

Extinction is the complete disappearance of a species from Earth. The Japanese wolf is an example of a species that has gone extinct due to human activities. The episode explores the consequences of human actions on animal populations and the importance of conservation efforts to prevent further extinctions.

Memorial

A memorial is a monument or structure erected to commemorate a person, event, or place. The wolf statue in the episode is a memorial to the last known Japanese wolf, serving as a reminder of the species' extinction and the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Osaka

Osaka is a major city in Japan, located on the island of Honshu. It is known for its vibrant culture, bustling economy, and delicious food. In the episode, Dysuke mentions that he used to live in Osaka before moving to Kyoto and Nara.