Pet Animals in Roman Antiquity - Reconstructions from Zooarchaeological Remains

Explore the fascinating world of pet animals in ancient Rome through this comprehensive lecture by Dr. Michael MacKinnon. Delve into the integration of archaeological findings, ancient texts, and artistic evidence to gain a deep understanding of how pets were distributed, perceived, bred, and treated during Roman antiquity. Discover the diverse range of pet dogs, with a special focus on small toy breeds that emerged in Roman cities, reflecting urban elite demand and trade networks. Examine the skeletal remains of these ancient pets, uncovering evidence of their active lifestyles and the care they received from their human companions. Gain insights into the pathological conditions found in these remains, which provide valuable information about the lives of pets in Roman society.