Dr. Christopher Riley named Chair of OVC’s Department of Clinical Studies

Dr. Christopher B. Riley recently joined the Department of Clinical Studies at the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College (OVC). He began his 5-year appointment as Chair of the department on December 1, 2022. 

Prior to joining OVC, Riley was director of research commercialization, equine group leader academic, and manager of the veterinary emergency response team at the School of Veterinary Science, Massey University in New Zealand.  

A military (Royal Australian Air Force) and veterinary graduate of the University of Melbourne, he completed a large animal surgical residency, MSc and PhD degrees at the University of Saskatchewan. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. 

“Chris brings an outstanding record of accomplishments in clinical teaching, research, and mentorship,” says OVC Dean Jeff Wichtel. “I look forward to working closely with him as a member of the College leadership team.” 

Riley has held positions in large animal surgery at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, as an Equine Chair and Associate Head of Student Affairs to establish a new veterinary school at the University of Adelaide, Australia, and Equine Chair at Massey University.  

He is a certified animal rescue technician with experience in technical animal rescue and national disaster responses.  

An international researcher and speaker, he has authored book chapters and articles on comparative veterinary medicine and surgery, large animal welfare, and aspects of animal rescue and disaster responses. 

His record of scholarship includes approximately CAD$10M in research and other grants and over 160 published papers and reports, including 120 in peer-reviewed journals.