Anyone who still thinks animals are automatons should work with a few species and learn how aware they are of who's who and how to specifically manipulate you to do their bidding - and it is not just food motivation, if they trust you enough, they'll run to you when being bullied or injured. They'll tell you when they're not well. When they're having a good time, they'll show you. And they're watching how you behave with others and adapt.