Daniel Allen

Dr Daniel Allen (Dan) is an Animal Geographer with interests in human-animal relations in policy and practice. An academic practitioner, his research on otter conservation and animal companionship has informed evidence-based animal advocacy, science-policy communication, and government and non-government decision-making.

During his advisory role with the UK Wild Otter Trust, Dan supported the formation and direction of the award-winning charity (2016), contributing to successful media and policy campaigns around otter protection. More recently (2018), Dan created the evidence-based ‘Pet Theft Reform’ campaign in collaboration with the Stolen and Missing Pets Alliance (Sampa). Following a recommendation from the Pet Theft Taskforce, a new ‘dog abduction’ offence was added to the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill (2021). This voluntary work led to a Special Recognition Award at the Daily Mirror’s Peoples Pet Awards (2021), and PM’s UK Points of Light Award (2022). The Pet Abduction Act became law in England and Northern Ireland in August 2024 - The Mirror described Dan as the 'Man who helped make pet abduction illegal'.

Author of two books, Otter (Reaktion Books, 2010; 2020) and The Nature Magpie (Icon Books, 2013; 2014), Dan has written over 200 animal-related articles for national magazines (including NFU Countryside, BBC Wildlife, Dogs Today, and Mental Health Today), and regular TV and radio appearances.