New Book Explores the Extraordinary Role Animals Played in Shaping HumanEvolution, Science, and Civilization

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — What if the story of humanity cannot be fully understood without first understanding animals? In Animals Made Us Human: A Short History of How Animals Shaped Our Evolution and Drove Science, Technology, and Civilization, veterinarian, scientist, and author Walter Tarello presents a fascinating exploration of the profound influence animals have had on the development of the human species—from our earliest ancestors to the modern world.

While humans often see themselves as separate from the animal kingdom, Tarello argues that our evolution has been deeply intertwined with the creatures around us. Drawing on science, history, anthropology, and biology, Animals Made Us Human reveals how observing, emulating, domesticating, and interacting with animals helped shape the human mind, body, culture, and technological advancement. The book traces this remarkable relationship from our earliest human ancestors to the rise of civilization and into the modern world, revealing how animals have influenced every stage of humanity's development.

"Animals have been far more than companions or resources," says Tarello."They have been our teachers, our inspiration, and, in many ways, our partners in becoming human."

Written for readers ages 14 and up, the book combines accessible scientific insight with engaging storytelling, making complex ideas approachable for a broad audience. Whether discussing the origins of toolmaking, the development of agriculture, the emergence of medicine, or the inspiration behind technological innovation, Tarello demonstrates that the human story is inseparable from the animal world.

A veterinary doctor (DVM, MRCVS), scientist, artist, and writer, Walter Tarello has devoted his career to studying the many dimensions of human-animal interaction. He has authored sixty-four scientific papers and several books on animal science and continues to advocate for a deeper understanding of the connections between humans and animals. He currently lives and practices in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Animals Made Us Human will appeal to readers interested in evolution, natural history, anthropology, biology, science, and the enduring relationship between humans and the animal kingdom. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on humanity's past while encouraging a renewed appreciation for the animals that helped shape our present—and continue to influence our future.

About the Author
Walter Tarello is a scientist, artist, writer, and veterinary doctor (DVM, MRCVS) who promotes the science of human-animal interaction across health, art, evolution, and culture. He has authored sixty-four scientific papers and several books about animals and lives and practices inDubai, United Arab Emirates.