Dr. Lee Niel

Associate Professor

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Biography

Lee Niel is an Associate Professor at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, where he holds the Col KL Campbell Chair in Companion Animal Welfare. He joined the college in 2010 and focuses his research and teaching on behavior and welfare in companion animals. With a background as a behavioral biologist, Dr. Niel specializes in animal behavior, animal welfare, and behavioral neuroscience, working with both laboratory and companion animals. His current research emphasizes understanding and preventing fear aggression in companion species, particularly in dogs, cats, and rabbits. This includes longitudinal studies on the development and maintenance of fear aggression, as well as practical strategies for reducing stress in animals during routine veterinary care. Dr. Niel collaborates with experts in the field on projects such as identifying affective states in cats based on facial expressions, exploring the welfare impacts of outdoor access for cats, and assessing the effects of chronic pain on cognitive abilities in dogs. He also participates actively in teaching, mentoring, and academic committees related to companion animal behavior and welfare.

Research Interests

Experience

Col KL Campbell Chair Companion Animal Welfare

2010-01-01 — Present

University of Guelph • Guelph, ON

Holds a chair focusing on companion animal welfare, conducting research and teaching.

Requirements for University of Guelph

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:21
Reading
Required:21
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:89
Prerequisites
Honours baccalaureate degree in a relevant field or DVM degree Identify a potential faculty advisor
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Two academic reference assessments
  • Statement of interest
  • English language proficiency test results (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Department of Clinical Studies. Offers MSc by thesis (2 years) and MSc by coursework (1 year).