Jane Goodall, pioneer in chimpanzee research and one of the most influential women in animal advocacy, has died aged 91.
News of her death, announced on 1 October 2025, has touched millions worldwide. Not only for her immense scientific contribution, but also for the ethical and humanitarian legacy she leaves behind.
Jane Goodall dies at 91
From childhood, she showed a special connection with animals. One of her most endearing photos shows her cuddling her kitten Figaro at the family home in Bournemouth, England.
Another great companion of her childhood was Rusty, her dog, whom she always remembered as her "first teacher".
Goodall explained on more than one occasion. "Rusty taught me that we are part of the animal kingdom and that we are not the only beings with personality and minds capable of reasoning. And certainly, that we are not the only beings who feel emotions, like happiness, sadness or fear",
Those early bonds shaped her life's path. They led her to dedicate decades to defending chimpanzees, dogs, cats and, ultimately, all animals.
A life dedicated to changing how we see animals
Born in London in 1934, Goodall revolutionised primatology with her research in Gombe, Tanzania. She was the first to demonstrate that chimpanzees use tools, feel emotions and maintain complex social bonds.
She founded the Jane Goodall Institute and created the educational programme Roots & Shoots. This inspired generations of young people worldwide to commit to protecting our planet.
Cat and dog enthusiast
Although chimpanzees were at the heart of her career, Goodall never forgot that our closest companions, like dogs and cats, also possess emotions and consciousness. One of her most famous quotes sums it up perfectly:
"You cannot share your life with a dog or a cat and not know perfectly well that animals have personalities, minds and feelings".
Beyond this vision, she supported initiatives and campaigns that connect her directly to the world of dogs:
She condemned the dog genocide in Morocco, facing the risk of mass culling of street animals ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
She supported the creation of canine units against wildlife trafficking in Congo, where trained dogs help stop the illegal trade in wild species.
A legacy that stays close to home
Jane Goodall's passing reminds society of the importance of her message: every living being matters. Her scientific approach, combined with deep compassion, paved the way for understanding that bonds, joy and pain are universal.
Those of us who live with dogs and cats know this well. We only need to look into their eyes to understand we're not alone in feeling. That was Goodall's great gift, and the task she leaves us is clear: protect, speak out against cruelty and continue building a respectful coexistence with all species.
