@suzanagartner
Hello, and thank you for visiting this page. I am a lifelong animal advocate, vegan, speaker, and retired animal rights lawyer.
I am someone who has always felt a deep empathy for animals and nature. That connection began in childhood, when I spent time outside with neighborhood cats and volunteered at shelters as a dog walker. I could sense the emotional depth and complexity as well as dignity in animals. These early moments and personal encounters inspired me to be a voice for animals.
Over the years, that love for animals grew into a life of purpose. I’ve dedicated my career to advancing the rights and protecting the well-being of animals through legal advocacy, community work, and public education. I am the author of _A Voice for Animals: The Social Movement That Provides Dignity and Compassion for Animals_ — a book that reflects both my journey and a vision for a more compassionate world.
I served as the Managing Director of Operations and Programs at the Etobicoke Humane Society, where I worked alongside passionate people to protect and care for vulnerable animals.
My academic path led me to a Master of Laws degree in Alternative Dispute Resolution from Osgoode Hall Law School. My thesis, _“Reducing Euthanasia in Animal Shelters,”_ focused on how collaboration and community-building can create more humane outcomes for shelter animals.
In 2014, I launched Canada’s first animal law firm and mediation
practice: Gartner & Associates Animal Law. I helped to resolve conflicts involving animals and elevate their legal standing in society. I also served as Chair of the Ontario Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and the board of advisors for Animal Justice Canada, the country’s largest animal protection organization.
I’ve spoken out for animals on national news, radio, podcasts, and have been featured in print magazines. Today, I continue this mission as a legal commentator on UnchainedTV, a platform dedicated to lifting vegan voices and exposing the truth about animal injustice.
I have most recently launched a sanctuary series. In recent years, my advocacy has taken on a new, deeply personal form through the creation of a sanctuary video series straight from my heart. I’ve been traveling to animal sanctuaries to film and share the stories of rescued animals and the incredible people who care for them. These founders are angels on earth; quiet heroes who pour their hearts and souls into creating safe havens for animals. I hope to shine a light on their work, introduce animals given a second chance, and inspire compassion through connection. Each visit is a reminder of the power of empathy, and each story is a call to imagine a kinder world in which every animal is seen as an individual, sentient being, valued, and loved.
My most meaningful moments are visiting rescued animals at shelters and sanctuaries, walking in the woods with my dogs, or preparing a plant-based meal for my family. I’m a proud wife, mother of two young men, and guardian to beloved fur babies who fill our home with love.
In my free time, I enjoy walking in nature, traveling, hiking, practicing yoga and meditation, writing poetry, meeting new people, and discovering new vegan restaurants around the world.
I’m open to connecting with others and available for interviews, expert commentary, speaking engagements, visits to sanctuaries, or thoughtful collaborations.
Thank you so much for caring about animals.
SUZANA GARTNER, B.A., J.D., LL.M.
Animal Advocate, Author, Speaker
[SuzanaGartner.com][3]
Order a copy of my book!
[Amazon US][4]
| [B & N][5]
| [BookShop.org][6]
| [Amazon Canada][7]
A Voice for Animals:
The Social Movement That Provides Dignity and Compassion for Animals