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Xareni P. Ehrhardt

My fascination with animals goes back as far as I can remember. I can still picture myself sitting cross-legged, observing every sentient being around me, searching for meaning in their behaviours. For years, my deep curiosity and admiration for animals drove me to seek understanding, leading me to study Veterinary Medicine. At the time, I believed it would provide all the answers I was looking for. While it gave me valuable knowledge, the experience ultimately became more of an awakening to my moral values than anything else.

By the end of my degree, after witnessing the realities of animal exploitation, I found myself deeply questioning not only my own actions but also humanity’s perception of non-human animals. This period of reflection led me to vegetarianism. By the time I began my Master’s in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at the University of Edinburgh, I had already immersed myself in extensive research on the various forms of animal exploitation. It was then that I became vegan, feeling that I was finally taking a meaningful step—the very least I could do for the animals.

As I pursued a PhD at the University of Exeter, my understanding of the connection between animal farming, wildlife conservation, and the environment deepened, as did my appreciation for the remarkable minds of animals. However, what grew the most was my love, respect, and admiration for every non-human animal. Over the years, I have conducted studies, research stays, and work—related to animal welfare and behaviour—in dozens of parks and zoos across the UK, Europe, and Mexico. These experiences gave me direct insight into the conditions and needs of animals in various institutions, both in Mexico and abroad. Completing my PhD in Animal Behaviour at a School of Psychology allowed me to exchange knowledge with experts in Comparative Psychology, Sociology, Law, Philosophy, and other disciplines, further enriching my understanding of Critical Animal Studies and the complexities surrounding animals and their treatment.

I now have over 18 years of research experience in animal science, mainly in behaviour, ethics, and welfare, as well as more than 25 years of hands-on experience working with animals across various sectors in a multidisciplinary manner. Throughout my professional, academic, and scientific career, I have been committed to sharing knowledge and raising awareness in both academic and public spheres. Much of my work and writing focuses on improving animal well-being and quality of life—whether in the context of wildlife conservation, companion animals, farm animals, or zoo animals. My publications, both academic and outreach-focused, including those produced in collaboration with students, share a common goal: advocating for the protection and respect of animals.

I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines and to connect with animal activists from around the world. These experiences have allowed me to expand my knowledge and promote a multicultural and multidisciplinary approach to conservation science, animal ethics, and the human-animal relationship, engaging with students, professionals, and the general public alike.

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