Dr. Alexandra (Sasha) Protopopova

Dr. Alexandra (Sasha) Protopopova, PhD, CAAB, is a tenured associate professor in the Animal Welfare Program at the University of British Columbia and the NSERC/BC SPCA Industrial Research Chair in Animal Welfare. An animal behaviorist and researcher, she aims to improve companion animal interests within a One Welfare framework, merging their needs with people, other animals and the planet.  A lifelong learner, dog trainer and sheltering researcher, Sasha enjoys the combination of teaching and leading research. More recently her investigations have moved toward exploring societal issues within companion animal welfare. She seeks to understanding how human influences such as systematic bias intersect with processes related to shelter adoptions, and how the landscape can become a more open and equitable one.

Sasha earned an MSc and a PhD in Behavior Analysis from the University of Florida, and dual  undergraduate degrees at University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her interest in PetSmart Charities of Canada was sparked by the work being done to create more access to veterinary care and services in Indigenous communities. As someone who grew up abroad and gained a more international lens into animal welfare ideas and practices, she plans to bring her unique perspective to her role as Board Member. She’s eager to learn more about Canada’s most pressing needs in companion animal welfare and how to approach solutions with cultural sensitivity. 

Aside from her passion for teaching university classes in animal learning, Sasha can be found flying in acroyoga (combining strength training and acrobatics) and cuddling dogs. 

Mission Moments

with Sasha Protopopova

How has your pet (or a previous pet) changed your life? 

My very first companion animal as a child was a retired laboratory rat that came to live with us. She was one of my best friends at the time and, undoubtedly, grew my love for animals. I remember us playing hide and seek where I would hide in a different room, and she would come find me. She then would hide behind the pillows in the sofa for me to find her. Who knows if she actually understood the game, but I certainly cherished the experience. 

What makes you most excited about working with PetSmart Charities?

I am very excited to work with an organization that is committed to promoting equitable access to care for companion animals and their guardians. Supporting programs that centre around the Human-Animal Bond ensures that we can have a humane future for all animals. 

What’s one stigma about pet parenting you wish would end? 

One stigma that seems to be sticking around is that wealth is connected to being a "responsible pet owner." Most of the time, people cannot control their circumstances in life, and some may be unable to afford veterinary care even though they very much love and are committed to their companion animal. Removing an animal from a loving home, rather than assisting the person in getting back on their feet, does not seem like the best approach.