My research aims to understand and improve a wide range of human-animal interactions. I am interested in our relationships with wild animals, as well as companion animals and how understanding human and animal behaviour can lead to more peaceful coexistence and conservation of the natural world. Current projects include examining how farming methods affect health of avian scavengers in South America, habitat use by carnivores and primates in Africa, and ways to promote wildlife friendly gardening the UK. My research informs and is supported by the Msc in Global Wildlife Health and Conservation.

I study behaviour and welfare of a variety of companion animal species,  including rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and other exotics and their interactions with humans. Working to measure,  prioritise and improve wellbeing, and to  ensure veterinary education arms graduates with the skills to best protect exotic and wild animal welfare. I co-led a programme on welfare of pet rabbits, the results of which formed the basis of the new UK Strategy for Rabbit Welfare. 

I am also? interested in working dog performance and its interplay with animal welfare. I have led numerous research programmes quantifying and improving the efficiency of police, military working dogs, conservation dogs, racing greyhounds, livestock guarding dogs and medical detection dogs. Their findings have been incorporated in the policy of many working dog agencies worldwide.   

Further information can be found about Nicola Rooney here.