Camie Heleski

Camie Heleski is a Lecturer in the Department of Animal & Food Sciences at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky. She holds a Ph.D. in Animal Science (2004) and M.S. (1992) and B.S. (1988) degrees from Michigan State University.

• Ph.D., Animal Science, Michigan State University, 2004
• M.S., Animal Science, Michigan State University, 1992
• B.S., Animal Science (with honors), Michigan State University, 1988

Her research focuses on equine welfare, applied ethology, and equitation science, with a particular emphasis on working equids in developing regions, stress-related behaviors in horses, and the application of learning theory to equine training. She has developed educational programs like My Horse University and contributed to the Animal Welfare Judging & Assessment Competition.

Her recent publications (2008-2015) explore topics such as crib-biting physiology, rein tension impacts, and shelter-seeking behavior in horses. These works often integrate behavioral science, global animal welfare, and human-animal interaction frameworks.

• Outstanding Faculty Member, Institute of Agricultural Technology, 2002
• AVMA Humane Award for Non-Veterinarian, 2012

Heleski has led international initiatives like the Equitarian Initiative and served as President of the International Society for Equitation Science. Her work bridges scientific research with practical animal handling education, including developing welfare assessment tools for wild and working equids.