Vicki’s strong commitment to animal welfare and the human-animal relationship has been an integral part of her career as an academic and a mental health professional. Vicki initially applied her background in psychology to understanding the human-animal bond, as well as animal abuse within the context of her work in the field of domestic violence. Her most recent published works have focused on the emotional capacity of animals and the importance of recognizing and respecting sentience among all animals. As part of her commitment to animal ethics and animal welfare policy, she serves on several animal ethics committees and the governance board of a major Australian animal shelter. Vicki’s lifelong support of animal wellbeing means her home is always filled with animals, all with their unique personalities.