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)

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.