Where are you from? Duluth, MN where before climate change, we had (9) months of winter and (3) months of bad sledding
Why are you involved with HABA?
As a veterinarian, I have always loved observing the loving interactions between people and their pets. Nurturing, facilitating, and protecting the human-animal bond has always been a focus of my practice. The HAB is our WHY! Why any of us are called to this great profession, why our clients seek our care, indeed why our profession exists in the way it does today and hence, why I am involved with this great organization of like-minded individuals who share this passion with me.
What are your hobbies? Hiking, Nordic and Downhill skiing, Mtn Biking, Stand-up Paddle boarding, and reading
Who are your family members (4 legged and 2 legged)?
Wife: Pam
(2) daughters – Jen and Sarah.
Hank (Golden Retriever), Wesley (DSH)
Tell us about yourself: Previous boards I have served on include: Pet Partners (formerly Delta Society), past president capacity with the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association, Portland Veterinary Medical Association and the Oregon Humane Society. Besides having presented at VMX, AVMA, WVC, and CVC, I have been speaking on the Zoetis Dermatology Speakers Bureau for over ten years. But most notable of all: Pam & I just became brand new grandparents!
What are 1 or 2 of your most memorable Human Animal Bond
experiences? The experience and the letters I received from a client after performing life-saving surgery on her beloved pet. These letters described how her pet had helped her cope with her depression, a messy divorce, and loss of a job. She shared that she had contemplated suicide and the only thing that kept her from following through was her pet. The pet that was a literal lifeline for this 45 year old woman was a pet rat.
Anything else you would like to share? Tell your friends, family, and colleagues about us! They can become members and support our work at: www.humananimalbond.net
