Elli Valtonen

Elli Valtonen is a Doctoral Researcher at the University of Helsinki's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, affiliated with the Research Centre for Animal Welfare and the Doctoral Programme in Clinical Veterinary Medicine. Her work bridges veterinary science and criminology, focusing on legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms for animal welfare in Finland.

• Education: Eläinlääketieteen lisensiaatti (Licentiate in Veterinary Medicine)

Her research examines crimes against companion animals, including passive neglect and active maltreatment, and investigates thresholds for police investigations in animal welfare violations. She analyses neutralisation techniques used by defendants in animal welfare cases, contributing to interdisciplinary understanding of animal-related legal offenses.

Key collaborations include the European Society of Criminology and Helsinki's Criminology and Legal Policy Institute. Her publications highlight intersections between veterinary practice, criminal justice, and policy reform.

• Leadership Roles: Expert member of the Pet and Hobby Animal Welfare Committee (2021–2024)
• Professional Memberships: Member of the Finnish Veterinary Association's Animal Welfare Committee (since 2014)