1. On killing Candy's dog: Carlson argues that Candy's old dog, which is described as "nearly blind" and "stiff in the joints," should be put down to end its suffering. He believes it's a mercy to kill the dog to spare it from its miserable condition.
>"'Candy,' he said gently. 'I hate to shoot 'im, but he's no good to himself. I shouldn't think you'd want him sufferin'."
2. Practical reasons for killing the dog: Carlson presents practical reasons for euthanizing the dog, such as the financial burden of caring for it and its inability to contribute to the ranch's productivity. He mentions the cost of dog food and the inconvenience of having an unproductive animal around.
>"'I'd shoot 'im myself if I wasn't afraid o' the noise. But you gotta do it, Candy. I seen dogs suffer too much, an' I can't stand it.'"
3. Emphasizing the act as kindness: Carlson tries to convince Candy that putting down the dog is an act of kindness, arguing that it's better for the dog to die peacefully rather than suffer through its current state.
>"'I'll do 'er myself, Candy. You don't need to bother with it at all. I'll do 'er myself.'"
Carlson's perspective reflects the harsh realities faced by ranch workers during the Great Depression era depicted in the story. Practicality and economical considerations often determined the fate of animals on these farms, leading to difficult decisions about their well-being.