Just a person who loves animals and learning…

Molly Sumridge, MS, CDBC, CPDT-KSA, CBATI-KSA

PhD Candidate in Anthrozoology | Director of Research, ASPCA

(They/She)

I am a researcher, educator, and lifelong student of the human-animal bond. Currently completing my PhD in Anthrozoology at the University of Exeter, my dissertation—Canis Obscura: The Social Construction of New Guinea Singing Dogs at the Intersection of Wild and Domestic—interrogates how scientific and popular narratives shape animal identities and influence care.

At the ASPCA, I serve as Director of Research, where I focus on increasing access to veterinary care and using data to inform humane policy and practice. Previously, I was Assistant Professor of Anthrozoology at Carroll College, where I led the canine program and taught courses on multispecies relationships, canine behavior, and critical research methods.

I hold a Master’s degree in Anthrozoology, multiple training and behavior certifications, and have spent over two decades working directly with dogs and their people, as a trainer, behaviorist, therapy team evaluator, and nonprofit leader.

While my life is filled with research, rescue, and writing, I ground myself in my relationships with me calamitous cat, patient parrot, spicy snakes, a flock of charming chickens, and a cast of colorful canine characters.

Molly's Certifications, Memberships, & Affiliations:

• PhD Candidate - Anthrozoology - University of Exeter

  • Dissertation: Canis Obscura: The Social Construction of New Guinea Singing Dogs at the Intersection of Wild and Domestic

• Master of Science in Anthrozoology

  • Thesis: Owner-reported attachment and behavior characteristics of New Guinea singing dogs living as companion animals (published in Anthrozoos 2021)

• President of the New Guinea Singing Dog Conservation Society

• Board Member of the New Guinea Singing Dog Club of America

• Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist (C-AAIS)

• Certified Dog Behavioral Consultant (CDBC)

• Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed (CPDT-KSA)

• Certified Fear Free Animal Trainer

  • Also: Fear Free Veterinary Certification

• Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor (CBATI)

• Certified Whistle Recall Instructor (CWRI)

• Certified Compassion Fatigue Educator

• Certified Compassion Fatigue Therapist

• Certified QPR Gatekeeper Instructor

• QPR Instructor

• member of the National Shiba Club of America

• member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers

• member of the Animal Behavior Society

• member of the Animals and Society Institute

• member of the International Society for Anthrozoology