Dr. Nels was born and raised in Omaha, graduating from Westside High School in 1969. He graduated with his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1975. He opened Backlund Animal Clinic in 1977 and raised his family in nearby Pacific Heights neighborhood. Dr. Nels has always been committed to continuing his veterinary education and embracing new concepts in pet care. He is currently going through the PennHIP certification process to diagnose hip dysplasia. He is a past president of the Nebraska Academy of Veterinary Medicine and former Hospital Administrator for the Animal Emergency Clinic.