Most of you probably don't know the name Pauleen Bennett. But at ARISTOPET we wanted to introduce her to you anyway, because she is one of the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable people when it comes to the animal world. She is a true aristopeter.
Bennett is 52 years old and Australian. She lives on a farm, a few hours from Melbourne, surrounded by sheep, horses, dogs and kangaroos. Bennett declares herself happy because, as she herself has shown, living in the company of other animals makes us physically and emotionally healthier. Bennett knows what she's talking about: she is a doctor in Neuropsychology and leads an anthrozoology research group at La Trobe University called "The Australian Anthrozoology Research Foundation". Initially she studied psychology to dedicate herself to people, but the death of her dog had such a devastating effect on her that she decided to reorient her career and her life. And dedicate herself, as we said, to anthrozoology.
Bennett has been able to deepen her understanding of the factors that influence the bond we establish with pets, especially with dogs. And she has shown that dogs have many abilities when it comes to understanding us: they understand things that even monkeys don't understand: such as pointing. They capture our attention and are able to evaluate, compare, associate and combine.
One of her most important findings has been to show that the bond between dogs and their owners is so strong that their hearts synchronize when they are together. Until now, it was believed that dogs were capable of interpreting the emotions and anticipating the intentions of other individuals of their own species, but now thanks to her, it is known that they are capable of interpreting those of other species and interpreting the moods of people they do not know based on their facial expressions and the tone of their voice, a cognitive ability that had only been detected in humans.
Bennett's studies highlight that for an increasing number of people, their dog occupies the number one spot on their scale of affections, above their spouse or children. And according to her, this is because in our society communication has become superficial, fast. And that dogs, who know how to listen and know how to love, fulfill that affection that we all need as social beings.
Another of her great achievements has been to change the legislation in Australia and to prohibit the docking of dogs' tails. Because, in her own words, "it is unnecessary and causes a lot of pain." Bennett insists that it is important that we understand that we cannot do whatever we want to animals. Not even when it comes to "our pets." Animals "are not objects."
In general, her studies and research help the Australian government to develop educational programs that improve the treatment and practices with animals, something particularly important and valuable in a country like hers. Let's remember that Australia has more than 378 mammal species, 828 bird species, 4000 fish species, 300 lizard species, 140 snake species, two crocodile species, and approximately 50 types of marine mammals. And that more than 80% of its plants, mammals, reptiles, and frogs cannot be seen anywhere else.
Thanks to women like Bennett, we are advancing in our knowledge and respect for the animal world. Share the article if you want more people to know this!