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Take the animal imagery--and the genders of the partners--out of Sutherland's advice/insight and you've got some nifty, mostly common sense tips about more effective interpersonal communication.
I found myself nodding a lot as I read her article--I've used some of those ideas and had others used on me, and regardless of who did it to whom, they've improved our communications in general and our relationship overall.
Some people just don't get it...but I'll bet that wingnut's dog or cat would! ;-)