Of course animals understand love! Haven't we all read stories about dogs who die trying to save their owners?!?! Isn't that love - that's not self preservation for sure!

What do you think the look on Koko's face was as she was getting spun around on the chair was - emotion - she was having the time of her life!

Why do you think dogs are so damn excited to see you whenever you get home?

Some animals mate for life - what's that if not love?

What about gorillas that have been known to protect kids that fall into their enclosures?

Animals appreciate more simple pleasures than us. I don't think that means that they are less capable of love - if anything it means they're MORE capable. They worry less and waste less emotional energy on crap like money!