Jessica Pierce

Jessica Pierce, a bioethicist and author focused on animal emotions, joins to discuss whether animals experience grief. She highlights poignant examples like dogs mourning their owners and orcas carrying dead calves. The conversation explores the debate around defining grief in animals and the implications of labeling their emotions. Pierce argues that recognizing grief can enhance empathy and spark crucial ethical conversations. Meanwhile, other experts caution against oversimplifying animal behaviors, suggesting alternative ways to understand their emotional responses.

Jessica Murray, a Guardian Midlands correspondent, discusses the rise in popularity of American bully XL dogs and a recent attack on a girl. Bioethicist Jessica Pierce weighs in on the debate about breed banning and reevaluating expectations of dog ownership. They explore concerns about aggression, genetics, and ethical responsibilities of dog ownership.

In this discussion, Jessica Pierce, a prominent bioethicist recognized for her insightful work on animal ethics, dives into the intricate world of dogs’ health. She tackles end-of-life care and the ethical dilemmas surrounding euthanasia, enriched by personal anecdotes. Jessica also emphasizes the divergent health needs of pet versus street dogs and critiques harmful breeding practices. The conversation highlights the profound human-dog bond, advocating for a compassionate lens on canine care that merges practical insights with philosophical inquiry.