Second, observing the successful clinical application of a surgical technique that I helped develop is incredibly satisfying. For example, from my days in neurosurgery, my first clinical research project in which the results were applied to clinical cases involved vertebral plating for spinal fractures and luxations. And in the realm of wound management, helping develop the fusion podoplasty technique was memorable because I saw dogs that had chronic fibrosing interdigital pyoderma regain the ability to comfortably walk again.

What do you consider the greatest threat to the profession?

As mentioned earlier, I see the development of specialties as advantageous for the profession. However, I also see the downside for veterinary clinical teaching. As specialties and specialty practices develop, can colleges attract specialists as clinical faculty members? And can colleges attract sufficient clinical cases for teaching?

Good veterinarians are dedicated to and enthusiastic about the field they are in. And good veterinarians are ethical and present a professional appearance to the community. This includes involvement in activities other than veterinary medicine, such as work in civic or church organizations, and, when family is present, dedication to its members.