[She can look them in the eye(sockets) without having to crane her neck in either direction, now, that's fun.]

Well, they clearly have excellent priorities.

[She reaches out carefully, so as not to startle the creature with sudden movements, and gently starts patting its' ears if it doesn't seem too nervous about her.]

Ah, yes, a proper name can be quite important. Did you have something in mind, or are you still trying to think of an idea?