Paws, Claws, and Tentacles: Animals and Pets in Science Fiction and Fantasy 

Saturday, February 21, 2026
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Whether we’re talking about the wise Aslan of Narnia, the tribbles of TOS or the rabbits of Watership Down, animals enrich our favorite stories. Panelists examine the bond between humans (and non-humans) and their creatures across science fiction and fantasy—why it works, how it deepens worldbuilding, and what it says about us. Join us for a lively discussion of the furry, feathered, and fantastical companions that make other worlds feel real.