What would happen to dogs if humans simply disappeared? Would dogs be able to survive on their own without us?

Join Jessica Pierce and Marc Bekoff as they imagine a post-human future for dogs, revealing how dogs would survive - and possibly even thrive - and explaining how this new and revolutionary perspective can guide how we interact with dogs now.

Drawing on biology, ecology and the latest findings on the lives and behaviour of dogs and their wild relatives, Jessica and Marc - two of today’s most innovative thinkers about dogs - explore who dogs might become without direct human intervention into breeding, arranged playdates at the dog park, regular feedings and veterinary care. They show how dogs are quick learners who are highly adaptable and opportunistic, and offer compelling evidence that dogs already do survive on their own - and could do so in a world without us.

Challenging the notion that dogs would be helpless without their human counterparts, Jessica and Marc will make you understand these independent and remarkably intelligent animals on their own terms.

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This event is hosted live on Zoom Webinar. You’ll receive further instructions and a link to join a couple of days before the event takes place and a reminder an hour before. During the event, you can ask questions via a Q&A function but audience cameras and microphones will remain muted throughout.

Answers to frequently asked questions, plus tips on making the most of your Festival experience can be found on the Festival website.

Please note that our online talks provide automated captioning that may not be 100% accurate and may vary in quality.

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