Jessica Dawson | Associate Lecturer and PhD Candidate
La Trobe University

Jessica Dawson is a PhD candidate at La Trobe University in the School of Psychology and Public Health, specializing in anthrozoology—the study of human-animal relationships. Her research interests encompass a wide range of topics related to how humans and animals coexist. Specifically, her PhD project focuses on companion dog breeding practices, examining how early experiences shape adult dog behavior and, in turn, influence the dynamics of the dog-owner relationship. In addition to her academic work, Jessica is an ANKC affiliated dog breeder and actively volunteers in the animal rescue sector, which further enriches her practical experience and deepens her understanding of the important role humans play in preparing companion dogs to become successful canine companions.