About the Author

Immanuel Birmelin

Dr. Immanuel Birmelin, born in 1943, studied biology and chemistry and completed his doctorate at the University of Bern. He is a behavioral researcher of international renown and was a long-standing member of the Behavioral Research Group of the German Veterinary Medical Society. Immanuel Birmelin co-developed an ethological concept that helps scientifically assess animal welfare issues and also works as an expert for animal-friendly husbandry. Together with his friend Volker Arzt, he made successful films such as "If Animals Could Talk," "Who is Smarter, Dog or Cat?", "Clever Plants," and "Let the Show Begin." Immanuel Birmelin lives with his wife and their St. Bernards Wiszla and Balou in Freiburg im Breisgau.