we've got feelings too
We’ve Got Feelings Too follows Alex, an animal‑loving lawyer on a mission to seek justice for animals harmed under outdated laws. When EastWest Airline injures Spirit, a young client’s dog, Alex begins researching a new legal concept called Sentient Property a practical approach that allows courts to recognize animals as living beings with feelings while still working within existing legal precedent.
about the author
Carolyn B. Matlack, J.D.
Carolyn B. Matlack, J.D. has always loved animals, a passion that ultimately shaped the direction of her life and career. At a certain point she realized she wanted to do more than simply care about animals—she wanted to help improve the way they are treated under the law. With that goal in mind, she made the bold decision to leave the corporate world and pursue a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) with a concentration in Animal Law.
She is the author of We’ve Got Feelings Too! Presenting the Sentient (Feeling) Property Solution, a work of creative nonfiction that blends legal insight with elements of autobiography. The book presents a practical perspective on the legal status of animals. While animals are legally classified as property, Carolyn argues that they are fundamentally different from ordinary property such as objects or possessions. Animals are living beings capable of feeling, and they deserve better treatment within the legal system. Through her work, she introduces the Sentient Property Solution, a legal concept designed to encourage courts to recognize animal sentience while working within existing legal frameworks.
about the book
We’ve Got Feelings Too follows Alex, an animal‑loving lawyer on a mission to seek justice for animals harmed under outdated laws. When EastWest Airline injures Spirit, a young client’s dog, Alex begins researching a new legal concept called Sentient Property a practical approach that allows courts to recognize animals as living beings with feelings while still working within existing legal precedent. As the case unfolds, the court begins to consider her argument, though the judge remains uncertain. Alex continues her fight in another case involving a custody battle over a therapy dog named Teddy, raising a powerful question: Should the happiness and well‑being of an animal matter in legal decisions? Partly autobiographical and written by a lawyer, the book presents a thoughtful legal solution for improving how animals are treated under the law while recognizing the deep relationships people share with their pets.