Camila Zalazar is a journalist, animal behavior observer, and animal caretaker dedicated to understanding the lives of animals under human care.

With a background in journalism and hands-on experience caring for a diverse group of over 100 animals, her work sits at the intersection of observation, behavior, and welfare. She approaches animals not through assumptions about what they feel, but through careful attention to what they do.

Through field visits, daily interactions, and continuous learning in animal behavior science, Camila documents real-life situations that reveal both the complexity and responsibility of keeping animals. Her perspective combines practical experience with a commitment to education and ethical reflection.

Her work is guided by a simple principle: by observing behavior, we can better understand needs—and through understanding, we can make more compassionate decisions.

Camila was born in Quitilipi, a small town in Northern Argentina surrounded by farms and animals. The town’s name, given by the region’s Indigenous people, refers to an owl—an early symbol of observation that would later define her path. She earned her degree in Journalism from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos in Madrid, Spain, before moving to the United States to pursue her work with animals. She has completed coursework in biology and personal development at Palm Beach State College and the University of Florida, and graduated from Susan Friedman’s Living and Learning with Animals program in 2022. She is currently enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program at Penn Foster, participates in the Dragonfly Project at Miami University, and continues her education through Zoo School, a program by Behavior Works led by Susan Friedman and associates.

Through Animal Welfare Journal, she shares field reports, reflections, and educational insights with the goal of fostering a more thoughtful and responsible relationship between humans and animals.

Through understanding, empathy grows — and compassion follows.