Writing Dogs and Fiction with Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren at Bark! Fest

A recent virtual event, "Writing Dogs and Fiction," brought together two highly acclaimed authors, Patricia B McConnell, PhD, and Cat Warren, for an insightful conversation hosted by Bark! Fest. The discussion, held on Tuesday, September 15th, at 1 pm Pacific (4 pm Eastern / 9 pm UK time), delved into the intricacies of crafting realistic and compelling canine characters in literary works. Organized by Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson, the event offered attendees a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of animal behavior science and creative storytelling, providing valuable perspectives on how to make fictional dogs truly resonate with readers. Though the live event has concluded, a recording remains available for registered participants, ensuring continued access to the rich dialogue.

The Esteemed Panelists: Bridging Science and Storytelling

The session featured two literary figures renowned for their profound understanding of canids and their ability to translate that knowledge into engaging narratives. Both authors bring a distinct blend of scientific rigor and narrative artistry to their work, making them ideal voices to discuss the nuances of fictionalizing the canine experience.

Patricia B McConnell, PhD: From Animal Behavior to Suspenseful Fiction

Patricia B McConnell, PhD, stands as a towering figure in the field of applied animal behavior. An internationally renowned expert, her career has spanned decades, marked by significant contributions to understanding and improving the human-animal bond. She is a former adjunct professor in Zoology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she imparted her deep knowledge of animal science. Beyond academia, Dr. McConnell has a robust public presence, having hosted "Calling All Pets," a nationally syndicated radio show that aired in over 110 cities for 14 years, and "Petline," a television show on Animal Planet that ran for two and a half years. Her multifaceted career underscores her commitment to educating the public about animal behavior in accessible and engaging ways.

Dr. McConnell’s non-fiction works have garnered widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, selling more than 1.2 million copies globally. Titles such as The Other End of the Leash, For the Love of a Dog, and The Education of Will explore complex aspects of canine-human interaction, canine cognition, and the profound emotional connections we forge with our pets. The Education of Will, in particular, stands out as a compassionate and uplifting memoir that bravely tackles the challenging subject of trauma and the healing power found in the relationships between dogs and humans. Her ability to blend scientific insight with empathetic storytelling has made her a beloved author among pet owners and professionals alike.

Transitioning from non-fiction to fiction, Dr. McConnell recently debuted her first novel, Away to Me. This suspenseful and immersive mystery is set against the lush, sprawling landscape of rural Wisconsin, a setting she knows intimately from her own life on a farm with Border Collies and sheep. The novel introduces Maddie McGowan, a protagonist living a "second life" on a 40-acre sheep farm, dedicating her passion to training sheepdogs, including her spirited Border Collie, Jack. Maddie’s professional life also involves addressing a diverse range of canine behavioral problems, from biting to thunder phobia, further highlighting Dr. McConnell’s expertise woven into the narrative fabric. The plot thickens when Maddie’s friend and mentor, George, is inexplicably killed by a rifle shot during a sheepdog trial. The sudden violence and mystery surrounding George’s death plunge Maddie into a complex and sinister situation, further complicated by the arrival of an aggressive German Shepherd she takes in and a romantic involvement with an enigmatic young shelter worker.

Away to Me has been described as a novel that marries the vivid nature writing of authors like William Kent Krueger and Peter Heller with the taut suspense characteristic of Louise Penny. It promises to be the first in a new mystery trilogy, offering readers a compelling blend of canine expertise, rural charm, and gripping suspense. Dr. McConnell’s ability to imbue her fictional canine characters with realism, drawing from her extensive background in animal behavior, is a hallmark of her new venture into fiction. Her online presence at PatriciaMcConnell.com continues to serve as a resource for animal enthusiasts.

Cat Warren: Unveiling the Extraordinary World of Scent Detection

Cat Warren, another distinguished author featured in the Bark! Fest event, is celebrated for her profound exploration of the olfactory world of dogs. She is the author of the beautifully-crafted New York Times bestseller What the Dog Knows: Scent, Science, and the Amazing Ways Dogs Perceive the World. This critically acclaimed work delves into the extraordinary abilities of scent detection dogs, showcasing their indispensable role in various fields. Warren’s narrative is particularly compelling as it interweaves scientific explanations with the personal journey of her own "impossible" German Shepherd, Solo, who transformed from an unruly puppy into a highly skilled human remains detection dog.

Warren recounts how Solo’s boundless energy, initially a challenge, proved to be an asset when channeled into purposeful work. The book meticulously details Solo’s training and the fascinating science behind canine olfaction, providing readers with an accessible yet in-depth understanding of how dogs perceive the world through scent. What the Dog Knows not only educates but also deeply engages, demonstrating the profound capabilities and partnerships between humans and working dogs. Its impact led to a Young Reader’s Edition, making the complex subject matter accessible to a younger audience and inspiring a new generation of animal lovers and budding scientists. The book’s literary merit was further recognized by its longlisting for the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award.

A retired professor from North Carolina State University, Cat Warren now dedicates her time to researching and writing about scent detection dogs and their applications, including in archaeology. Her work highlights the cutting-edge applications of canine abilities and the ongoing discoveries in the field. She resides in Durham, North Carolina, with her husband, David, and her canine companions, a German Shepherd named Rev and a Boykin Spaniel named Brio, continuing her close connection to the animals that inspire her writing.

The Art of Writing Canine Characters: A Deeper Dive

The core of the Bark! Fest conversation between Dr. McConnell and Ms. Warren centered on the craft of writing fiction where dogs are not merely props but integral, realistic characters. This topic is particularly pertinent in contemporary literature, where readers increasingly seek authenticity and depth in animal portrayals. The discussion explored the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in this genre.

One primary challenge is avoiding anthropomorphism while still conveying a dog’s perspective and emotional landscape. Both authors, with their backgrounds in animal behavior and science, are uniquely positioned to address this. They likely shared insights into how to depict canine motivations, reactions, and relationships in ways that are scientifically informed yet emotionally resonant. This involves understanding canine body language, communication cues, and their sensory world – particularly scent, as highlighted by Warren’s work. For example, how does a dog "think" or "feel" about a situation? How can a writer convey fear, joy, loyalty, or confusion without attributing human thought processes?

The authors also delved into the "writing (and re-writing) that makes canine characters leap off the page." This suggests a rigorous creative process, likely involving extensive research, observation, and iterative drafting. It’s not enough to simply describe a dog; the character must have agency, contribute to the plot, and evolve within the narrative. Dr. McConnell, in Away to Me, integrates Maddie’s professional insights into dog behavior directly into the mystery’s unfolding, making the canine characters active participants in the narrative’s progression. Similarly, Warren’s non-fiction about Solo demonstrates how a dog’s inherent traits and training journey can form a compelling character arc.

The conversation likely touched upon how their scientific expertise informs their fictional choices. Dr. McConnell’s knowledge of sheepdog trials and dog behavior, for instance, provides a rich, authentic backdrop for the suspense in Away to Me. Ms. Warren’s understanding of canine olfaction could inspire intricate plot points or character developments in future fictional endeavors, demonstrating how a dog’s unique senses can drive narrative elements. For readers, this means a deeper, more believable engagement with the story, as the canine elements are grounded in reality rather than cliché.

Bark! Fest: A Confluence for Animal Lovers and Literary Minds

Bark! Fest serves as a crucial platform for celebrating literature focused on animals and fostering dialogue among authors, readers, and animal welfare advocates. The festival’s mission is to highlight the diverse range of books that explore the human-animal bond, animal behavior, and conservation, providing a space for intellectual engagement and emotional connection. In an era where virtual events have become increasingly prevalent, Bark! Fest leverages digital platforms to bring together a global community of animal lovers.

The event with Dr. McConnell and Ms. Warren exemplifies Bark! Fest’s commitment to featuring experts who can offer profound insights into the animal world. By hosting discussions that bridge scientific understanding with creative expression, the festival contributes to a more informed and empathetic public discourse surrounding animals. The hosts, Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson, are themselves prominent figures in the animal behavior and training community. Zazie Todd is the author of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy and runs the popular blog Companion Animal Psychology, focusing on evidence-based approaches to pet care. Kristi Benson is a certified professional dog trainer and author, known for her practical and humane training philosophies. Their involvement ensures that the conversations at Bark! Fest are grounded in expertise and a shared passion for animal welfare.

The accessibility of the event, being virtual and recorded, aligns with Bark! Fest’s goal of reaching a broad audience. This model allows individuals from different time zones and with varying schedules to participate, democratizing access to high-quality literary and scientific discussions. The availability of the recording further extends the longevity and impact of the insights shared, serving as a valuable resource for aspiring writers, animal enthusiasts, and educators.

Supporting Authors and the Literary Ecosystem

A vital component of the Bark! Fest initiative, and a consistent message conveyed by its organizers, is the importance of supporting authors. The article explicitly encourages attendees and readers to purchase the books by Dr. McConnell and Ms. Warren. This support is crucial for the continued flourishing of literature, especially within specialized genres like animal-centric writing.

The call to action provided multiple avenues for purchasing books, including "wherever books are sold." Specific mentions of Amazon (via Zazie Todd’s Amazon store) and Bookshop.org (an online bookstore supporting independent booksellers) underscore a commitment to diverse retail channels. The suggestion to check local libraries also highlights the role of public institutions in making literature accessible and promoting readership. This multifaceted approach to book acquisition benefits authors directly and strengthens the broader literary ecosystem, which includes publishers, booksellers, and libraries.

The transparency regarding affiliate links (as an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate) is also a standard journalistic practice, informing readers that commissions may be earned on qualifying purchases without additional cost to the buyer. This ensures ethical disclosure while still facilitating direct support for the content creator and authors.

The Growing Significance of Canine-Centric Literature

The event with Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren underscores a significant trend in contemporary literature: the increasing prominence and sophistication of canine-centric narratives. Dogs have long been present in stories, often as loyal companions or symbolic figures. However, there is a discernible shift towards portraying them as complex characters with their own internal lives, motivations, and impact on human protagonists. This evolution reflects a broader cultural appreciation for the depth of the human-animal bond and a greater scientific understanding of animal cognition and behavior.

Statistics consistently show high rates of pet ownership globally, with dogs being among the most popular companions. In the United States, for example, over 65 million households own a dog, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2023-2024 National Pet Owners Survey. This vast audience naturally gravitates towards literature that reflects their experiences and affections for their canine family members. Authors like McConnell and Warren elevate this genre by infusing their narratives with scientific accuracy, moving beyond sentimental depictions to offer authentic and insightful portrayals.

The implications of such literature are far-reaching. Beyond entertainment, these books serve as educational tools, subtly teaching readers about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the intricacies of animal behavior. By presenting dogs as intelligent, sentient beings whose actions are rooted in biological and behavioral principles, authors contribute to dispelling myths and fostering a deeper, more respectful understanding of animals. For instance, Warren’s exploration of scent detection highlights the incredible, often unseen, work dogs perform, fostering appreciation for their capabilities. McConnell’s novels, grounded in her behavior expertise, illustrate the complex emotional lives of dogs and their role in human healing and trauma recovery.

Furthermore, discussions like those at Bark! Fest contribute to the professional development of writers. They offer guidance on character development, plot construction, and world-building when animals are central. By analyzing how experts integrate scientific knowledge into fiction, aspiring authors can learn to craft more compelling and believable animal characters, enriching the entire literary landscape.

Conclusion

The "Writing Dogs and Fiction" event at Bark! Fest, featuring Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren, represented a valuable convergence of scientific expertise and literary artistry. By bringing together two authors who excel at both understanding and articulating the canine experience, Bark! Fest provided a platform for a deep and meaningful exploration of how to create authentic animal characters in fiction. The discussion offered insights not only into the craft of writing but also into the profound nature of the human-animal bond itself.

As canine-centric literature continues to grow in popularity and sophistication, events like this play a critical role in guiding its development. They emphasize the importance of accuracy, empathy, and depth in depicting animals, moving beyond simplistic portrayals to offer rich, nuanced narratives. For readers, this translates to more engaging and insightful stories. For authors, it provides a blueprint for crafting characters that truly "leap off the page." The continued availability of the event’s recording ensures that these valuable insights will resonate with a wider audience, solidifying Bark! Fest’s position as a significant contributor to the literary and animal welfare communities.