Shelly Volsche

Shelly Volsche is an applied anthropologist and storyteller, with over a decade in higher education and animal welfare. Inspired by our ever-changing relationships with nonhuman animals, particularly dogs, she looks at cultural and evolutionary factors influencing the human-animal bond. Her recent work investigates dog-human play, the potential for nonverbal communication to enhance the bond, and the role of companion animals in cross-cultural practices of kinship. She is a member of many academic and professional organizations including the International Society of Applied Ethology and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Her work has been featured in the media (e.g., National Geographic, BBC), on multiple radio outlets (e.g., NPR’s Fresh Air), and on podcasts (e.g., DogLab with Brian Burton). During her off time, Volsche can be found roaming with her husband and their dogs, Lucy and Guts, or playing video games – especially those that include positive portrayals of the human-animal bond.