Laura A. Reese is a Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at Michigan State University. She is also an editor for the journal Animals. Dr. Reese is the President of Professional Animal Welfare Services, a consulting firm focusing on animal welfare, shelter management, and policy. Her main research and teaching areas are urban public policy, economic development, and animal welfare policy. She has written or edited seventeen books and over 100 articles and book chapters. Dr. Reese has worked with various public and nonprofit entities, including the International City/County Management Association, The Pedigree Foundation, and several shelters and rescues.