Bark! Fest to Host Acclaimed Authors Exploring Centuries of Canine Companionship and Veterinary Innovation

Animal lovers and history enthusiasts are invited to an exclusive virtual event, Bark! Fest, featuring two distinguished authors who will delve into the rich tapestry of human-animal relationships. On September 25, Dr. Stephanie Howard-Smith, a renowned animal historian, and Dr. Philipp Schott, a celebrated veterinarian and author, will offer captivating insights into the history of small dogs and the curious evolution of veterinary medicine. The webinar, co-hosted by Dr. Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, promises a comprehensive exploration of our enduring bond with pets, spanning millennia of shared existence.

Scheduled for 1 pm Pacific time (4 pm Eastern / 9 pm UK time), this online gathering provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with leading voices in pet-centric literature. Attendees can anticipate an illuminating discussion covering topics ranging from the roles of diminutive canines in various societies to the often-bizarre and always fascinating journey of animal healing practices. The event aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the historical contexts that have shaped our present-day understanding and treatment of companion animals.

The Enduring Charm: Dr. Stephanie Howard-Smith and Yap! A Short History of Small Dogs

Dr. Stephanie Howard-Smith, an esteemed animal historian, will introduce her forthcoming book, Yap! A Short History of Small Dogs. This highly anticipated work, slated for release in October 2026, offers an engaging and tender narrative chronicling the journey of our small canine companions. Dr. Howard-Smith’s academic credentials are extensive, including a PhD focusing on the cultural history of lapdogs in the eighteenth century. Her scholarly research has previously explored diverse subjects such as London’s first celebrity veterinarian, the historical significance of porcelain pugs, and the daily lives of dogs in Georgian England. This rigorous academic background underpins her accessible and entertaining approach to history, promising a book that is both informative and delightful.

Yap! explores how small dogs have been integral to human lives for thousands of years, evolving from specialized working animals to cherished household companions. While larger breeds often took on roles of guarding, herding, and hunting, smaller canines carved out a distinct niche, enriching human lives in unique ways. Dr. Howard-Smith’s narrative weaves together historical anecdotes, focusing on famous pooches who have left their paw prints on history.

The book traces this fascinating evolution through various historical periods:

• Medieval Europe: Discover how nuns, defying strict monastic rules, secretly kept small dogs as faithful friends, highlighting the early human need for intimate animal companionship even amidst societal restrictions. These stories underscore the powerful emotional bonds that transcended institutional disapproval.
• Royal Courts: The book delves into the world of King Charles’s Spaniels, iconic symbols of aristocracy and companionship during the Stuart monarchy, reflecting their role as pampered pets and status symbols. Similarly, Queen Victoria’s beloved Pekingese illustrate the burgeoning interest in specific breeds and the deep personal connections forged between monarchs and their pets in the Victorian era.
• Modern Celebrity Culture: Yap! brings the narrative into the contemporary age, examining the phenomenon of figures like Paris Hilton and her Chihuahua, which epitomized the "accessory dog" trend. The book also explores the rise of twenty-first-century pet influencers on social media, demonstrating how small dogs continue to shape cultural trends and reflect societal values, from utility to luxury item, and now, digital personalities.

Through these captivating accounts, Dr. Howard-Smith celebrates a diverse array of petite companions, including French Bulldogs, Toy Poodles, Terriers, Dachshunds, Pomeranians, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Spaniels. She illustrates how these "yapping little dogs" have not only shaped human lives but have also provided a blueprint for the modern canine, offering unparalleled companionship and emotional support when it was most needed. The Bark! Fest event offers attendees an exclusive preview of this profound and charming historical exploration.

Unveiling the Evolution of Veterinary Care: Dr. Philipp Schott DVM and Heal the Beasts

Joining Dr. Howard-Smith is Dr. Philipp Schott, a distinguished Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a prolific author, presenting his work, Heal the Beasts: A Jaunt Through the Curious History of the Veterinary Arts. Dr. Schott, who retired from active small animal veterinary practice in Winnipeg in 2025 after a long and dedicated career, brings a practitioner’s perspective to his historical investigations. His extensive experience in treating animals enriches his understanding of the challenges and triumphs within veterinary medicine.

Dr. Schott is also a celebrated author, with his bestselling first book, The Accidental Veterinarian, translated into five languages. He has since published six more books across various genres, demonstrating his versatility and talent for engaging storytelling. Heal the Beasts continues this tradition, chronicling the history of veterinary medicine through a collection of bizarre, funny, surprising, and heartwarming anecdotes.

The book introduces readers to 22 different animal healers and veterinarians from across continents and eras, shedding light on the often-overlooked history of animal healthcare. From ancient treatments to modern surgical techniques, Dr. Schott examines the innovative, and sometimes unconventional, methods employed to treat a vast array of creatures. The narrative explores how the fundamental human-animal bond has driven advancements in veterinary care, highlighting that this relationship has often been more cyclical than linear, experiencing periods of intense focus and remarkable progress, interspersed with times of neglect or primitive practices.

Key figures and periods explored in Heal the Beasts include:

• Ancient India: Dr. Schott transports readers almost 3,000 years into the past to meet Palakapya, a legendary figure renowned for treating fighting elephants. This historical context illuminates the advanced state of ancient Indian veterinary medicine, particularly concerning animals crucial for warfare and labor, as evidenced by texts like the Hastyayurveda, a treatise on elephant medicine.
• Mid-20th Century Manhattan: The book fast-forwards to Dr. Louis Camuti, who established the first feline house call practice. Operating in a time when companion animals were increasingly seen as family members, Camuti catered to the cats of celebrities, reflecting a significant shift in societal attitudes towards pets and the burgeoning field of specialized companion animal medicine. His pioneering work laid groundwork for personalized pet care that continues today.
• Beyond the Familiar: While James Herriot, the beloved author and veterinarian, is a familiar name to many, Dr. Schott introduces readers to a host of lesser-known but equally significant figures whose contributions have shaped the veterinary arts. His exploration extends to the treatment of a wide spectrum of animals, from common dogs and horses to exotic gorillas, and even mythical dragons, illustrating the boundless scope of human efforts to heal the animal kingdom.

Heal the Beasts is designed to entertain and enlighten anyone with a passion for animals, the history of medical sciences, or simply a love for quirky historical narratives. Dr. Schott’s light-hearted yet deeply informative approach underscores the empathetic connection between humans and beasts, revealing how this bond has continuously evolved alongside our medical understanding.

The Curators of Canine and Companion History: Bark! Fest Hosts

The Bark! Fest event itself is a testament to the growing interest in literature that explores the intricate world of animals. It is expertly co-hosted by Dr. Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson. Dr. Todd, an acclaimed author and expert in animal behaviour and welfare, brings a scientific yet accessible perspective to the discussions, often drawing from her own extensive research and writing on dog and cat behaviour. Her background ensures that the conversations are grounded in factual information and a deep understanding of animal psychology. Kristi Benson, also a prominent figure in the animal community, complements Dr. Todd’s expertise, together creating a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment for authors and attendees alike.

The initiative behind Bark! Fest, spearheaded by Dr. Todd and Ms. Benson, is to create a vibrant platform where animal lovers can connect with authors whose work enriches our understanding of pets. These virtual festivals have become increasingly vital in the post-pandemic landscape, breaking down geographical barriers and allowing a global audience to participate in literary discussions that might otherwise be inaccessible. This accessibility aligns with the broader goal of fostering an informed and compassionate community of pet owners and advocates.

The Significance of Bark! Fest and Animal Literature

Bark! Fest exemplifies a burgeoning trend in publishing and public engagement: a keen interest in non-fiction that delves into the historical, scientific, and cultural aspects of human-animal interaction. Understanding the long and varied history of our relationships with pets is crucial for several reasons. It provides context for current animal welfare debates, informs ethical considerations in animal care, and enriches our personal connections with the animals in our lives.

The global pet care market, for instance, is a testament to the economic significance of animals, projected to exceed $300 billion by 2030, driven by increased pet ownership and a willingness to spend on premium products and services, including advanced veterinary care. In the United States alone, over 85 million households own at least one pet, highlighting the pervasive presence of animals in modern life. Literary events like Bark! Fest serve as vital educational tools, linking this vast pet-owning public with academic and professional insights that deepen their understanding and appreciation.

Moreover, the growing academic field of Anthrozoology, or human-animal studies, underscores the intellectual weight now being given to these relationships. Historians, sociologists, psychologists, and veterinarians are increasingly collaborating to explore the profound impact animals have on human societies and vice versa. Events like Bark! Fest bridge the gap between scholarly research and the general public, making complex historical narratives and scientific findings accessible and engaging.

A Historical Lens on the Human-Animal Bond

The narratives presented by Dr. Howard-Smith and Dr. Schott collectively offer a powerful historical lens through which to view the evolution of the human-animal bond. From the lean, mean little terriers safeguarding homes from vermin to the cherished lapdogs offering emotional solace, small dogs have continuously adapted their roles to human needs and desires. Simultaneously, the evolution of veterinary medicine, from ancient remedies for working animals to sophisticated modern treatments for beloved companions, reflects a gradual yet profound shift in human empathy and scientific understanding.

The "cyclical" nature of the human-animal bond, as suggested by Dr. Schott, prompts critical reflection. It suggests that while our care and appreciation for animals have advanced considerably, there have been periods of regression or varied priorities. Understanding these fluctuations can provide valuable lessons for current animal welfare initiatives, reminding us that the commitment to animal well-being requires continuous effort and education. The event’s focus on historical context thus offers not just entertainment but also a foundation for informed advocacy and responsible pet ownership in the future.

Event Details and Participation

Those interested in attending this enriching virtual event should mark their calendars for September 25 at 1 pm Pacific (4 pm Eastern / 9 pm UK time). Registration is essential to secure a spot and can be completed via the provided Zoom webinar link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/1117871093775/WN_Mh05kguPSEWy5NG6anEYVg. This live event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to submit questions to the authors, fostering an interactive and dynamic discussion.

Supporting Authors and Independent Bookstores

Bark! Fest also emphasizes the importance of supporting authors and the broader literary ecosystem. Attendees are encouraged to acquire copies of Yap! A Short History of Small Dogs (forthcoming in October 2026) and Heal the Beasts: A Jaunt Through the Curious History of the Veterinary Arts. These books are widely available wherever books are sold. For convenience, links are provided to Dr. Zazie Todd’s Amazon store (https://www.amazon.com/shop/animalbookclub/list/1AOFRUDRWF9B7?ref_=aipsflist) and Bookshop (https://bookshop.org/lists/bark-fest-2026), platforms that support independent bookstores. Additionally, readers are encouraged to check their local libraries for these titles, promoting accessibility and community resources. It is disclosed that affiliate links are used, meaning a commission may be earned on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to the buyer. This transparent approach ensures that attendees can support the authors and the event hosts while accessing valuable literature.

The upcoming Bark! Fest event promises to be a cornerstone moment for animal lovers seeking to deepen their understanding of the profound and often surprising history shared between humans and their animal companions. By bringing together leading voices in animal history and veterinary science, the festival reaffirms the enduring significance of pets in our lives and the continuous evolution of our collective responsibility towards them.