Models Eva Hardwick and Allana Brito are styled by Emmanuelle Ramos in ‘Maria dos Prazeres’, a fashion story with deep ties to nature.

Photographer Alexandra Sophie [IG] is behind the lens for Vogue Portugal’s May 2023 Pleasure Issue.

Human Brains and Nonthreatening Animals

According to recent studies, the human brain has a positive response to nonthreatening animals. When individuals come across animals that are perceived to be cute or friendly, such as puppies or kittens, their brain releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and trust.

Much exciting new research focuses on the brains of the animals — and dogs in particular. A new study, published in the journal Evolution, investigated brain size in both modern and ancient dog breeds.

The research team found that dog brains are getting larger the further genetically that they have evolved away from a wolf. Researchers expected the exact opposite result, arguing that the larger, ancient brain was required for self-defense and hunting among ancient dogs and wolves alike.