Former Duluthian Emily Allen Featured On “Breaking The Chain”

Emily went to Duluth East, St. Olaf College, and grew up in a Duluth neighborhood.

According to an article by Postbulletin, her first experience with an animal was when she was in high school, Emily and her twin sister Elisa adopted Sam, from Animal Allies. Sam was a German Sheppard and opened her eyes to helping animals. Up until that time, Emily didn't have any experience with any animals. She was inspired to volunteer for Animal Allies.

Post bulletin goes on to say Emily graduated from St. Olaf college Allen saw an internship opening for PETA in Norfolk. She worked in the animal cruelty investigation department and ascended to her current position.

Emily is featured on a show called Breaking The Chain. It's a documentary that came out on September 1st. At some points, the film is graphic, showing the bad side of how people treat animals. Emily is a field worker for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), and the film shows neglected and abused animals and the PETA workers who nurse them with food and shelter and education for pet owners.

Emily Allen’s experience as a field worker at PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is featured in “Breaking the Chain,” a documentary released Sept. 1. The film explores neglected or abused animals in impoverished areas of the southern United States, the PETA workers who provide food and shelter to them, as well as education for pet owners.

She was surprised to watch the movie that she is featured in. The Duluth News Tribune reports her sister was also inspired to work with animals and works for PETA as well.

After graduating from St. Olaf College in 2004, Allen saw an internship opening at PETA’s Norfolk, Va., headquarters. She moved into the animal cruelty investigation department and worked her way up.

Allen tells Post Bulletin she didn't see any neglected dogs growing up in Duluth, and noted moving to the South showed her a difference in pet ownership. She said in Duluth everyone has their dogs inside with them, but down south they are chained up and spend their lives that way. She also said there are no rescue services or vets in some of the regions, so PETA workers have to teach pet owners about trimming their dog’s nails, explain the importance of shelter and socialization, and offer free spay and neuter services.

Emily Allen told Post Bulletin her 15-year-old self would think her job is cool. She goes on to say she finds her job rewarding and loves helping animals.